Communication: An Exchange of Ideas

Communication: An Exchange of Ideas

• Communication is the exchange of ideas between two or more people through a medium.
• Elements of communication include:
  • Sender: Conveys information to the receiver.
  • Encoding: Converting thoughts into words.
  • Message: The actual content being communicated.
  • Channel: The medium through which the message is transmitted.
  • Receiver: The intended recipient of the message.
  • Decoding: Extracting meaning from words to decode the message.
  • Feedback: The response or reaction to the message.
  • Noise: Anything that hinders effective communication.

Communication Models

• Linear Model: A simple, one-way communication model where information flows from the sender to the receiver.
• Shannon-Weaver Model: Emphasizes the potential for noise to interfere with the transmission of a message.
• Schramm's Model: A two-way communication model that emphasizes the importance of feedback.

Barriers to Effective Communication

• Physical Noise: External distractions like loud noises or visual clutter.
• Psychological Noise: Internal distractions caused by emotions, stress, or mental preoccupations.
• Physiological Noise: Physical distractions like hunger, tiredness, or discomfort.
• Semantic Noise: Misinterpretations arising from differing meanings of words or phrases.

Intercultural Communication

• Communication between individuals with different linguistic or cultural backgrounds.
• Intercultural communication can be influenced by factors like:
  • Ethnic groups
  • Language
  • Economic status
  • Profession
  • Religion
  • Educational background
  • Gender
  • Age group

Verbal Communication

• Communication that uses spoken or written words.
• Verbal Communication Skills:
  • Asking questions
  • Probing for deeper understanding.
  • Reflecting on questions and comments.
  • Including quiet members in discussions.
  • Utilizing round-robin discussions for equal contributions.
  • Encouraging divergent views for diverse perspectives.
  • Encouraging convergent views to reach consensus.
  • Shifting perspectives to gain different viewpoints.
  • Summarizing key points.
  • Bridging gaps between ideas.

Nonverbal Communication

• Communication through actions, gestures, facial expressions, and body language.

Subfields of Linguistics

• Chronemics: The study of how people use time in communication.
• Haptics: The study of how people use touch in communication.
• Oculics: The study of how people use eye contact in communication.
• Proxemics: The study of how people use space in communication.
  • Intimidate Distance: (Confidential)
  • Personal Distance: (Family/close friends)
  • Social Distance: (Business transactions)