Communication Basics

Defining Communication

• Communication comes from the Latin word "commūnicāre", meaning "to make common" or "to share".
• It involves the transmission of information, ideas, and attitudes between individuals.

Steps in Communication

• Forming Communicative Intent: The sender decides what they want to convey.
• Message Composition: The sender shapes the message, considering its content and form.
• Message Encoding: The sender translates their thoughts into a form the receiver can understand (e.g., words, gestures).
• Transmission of Signal: The message is sent through a chosen channel (e.g., speech, writing).
• Reception of Signal: The receiver receives the message.
• Message Decoding: The receiver interprets the message based on their understanding.
• Interpretation of Message: The receiver understands the message and its implications.

Why Study Communication?

• Enhances self-confidence.
• Improves relationships by facilitating understanding and connection.
• Promotes freedom of speech and expression.
• Develops crucial life skills for personal and professional success.

Functions of Communication

• Behavior Change: Communication can influence and alter behavior.
• Influence: It allows individuals to exert influence on others.
• Expression: It provides a means to express thoughts, feelings, and experiences.
• Control and Motivation: It can be used for management and motivation within groups.
• Self-Confidence: It reinforces self-assurance and personal growth.
• Amusement: It serves as a form of entertainment and enjoyment.
• Education: It facilitates knowledge acquisition and learning.
• Problem Solving: It enables collaborative problem-solving and conflict resolution.
• Direction: It provides guidance, instructions, and clear directions.

Characteristics of Communication

• Two-Way Process: Involves both sending and receiving messages.
• Irreversible: Once communicated, a message cannot be entirely retracted.
• Dynamic: Communication constantly changes depending on context, participants, and other factors.
• Elements: Includes a source, receiver, channel, message, noise, and feedback.
• Verbal and Nonverbal: Communication can be expressed through words, gestures, body language, and other forms.