Communication Basics Quiz

Definition of Communication

• Communication is a process that facilitates the exchange of information.
• Systematic in nature, encompassing structured steps from source to receiver.
• Proactive approach, anticipating communication needs and contexts.
• Symbolic, utilizing symbols to convey meaning effectively.

Elements of Communication

• Source: Initiates and sends the message.
• Message: The content created by the source for dissemination.
• Channel: The medium through which the message is delivered.
• Receiver: The intended recipient of the message.
• Feedback: The receiver's response to the message, crucial for understanding effectiveness.
• Environment: The context in which communication occurs, influencing interpretations.
• Interference (Noise): Factors that disrupt or distort message transmission.

Forms of Communication

• Verbal: Involves spoken language for direct interaction.
• Non-Verbal: Encompasses body language and gestures; includes cues like eye contact and sighing.
• Written: Utilizes text and symbols for communication.
• Visual: Employs images or visual aids to convey messages.

Models of Communication

• Linear Model:
  • One-way process, where feedback is absent.
  • Example: Print media, television.
• Interactive Model:
  • Two-way communication where speaker and receiver switch roles.
  • Feedback is crucial for enhancing engagement.
• Transactional Model:
  • Simultaneous feedback and interaction, often occurs in real-time settings.
  • Example: Ordering food involves immediate responses.

Key Linear Model Examples

• Aristotelian Model:
  • Structure: Speaker → Speech → Occasion → Audience → Effect
• Lasswell Model:
  • Structure: Who → What → In Which Channel → To Whom → With What Effect
  • Example from CNN: Tokyo Electric Power Co reports radioactive leakage.
• Shannon and Weaver Model:
  • Structure: Sender → Encoder → Channel (with Noise) → Decoder → Receiver.
• Berlo's Model:
  • Considers source skills, message components, channel perception, and receiver attributes.

Communication Breakdown

• Occurs when messages or feedback are inadequately conveyed, often due to noise.
• Types of Noise:
  • Physical Noise: Environmental disturbances (e.g., barking dogs).
  • Physiological Noise: Physical discomfort affecting reception (e.g., hunger).
  • Psychological Noise: Emotional or mental barriers impacting understanding (e.g., disagreement).
  • Semantic Noise: Misunderstanding due to language issues (e.g., language barriers).

Intercultural Communication

• Involves interactions between individuals from varied cultural backgrounds, shaping their understanding and meaning.
• Influenced by ethnicity, religion, sexual orientation, and language, all part of cultural identity.
• Cultural collisions can occur due to misunderstandings based on differing communication styles (e.g., gestures, eye contact).

Stages of Intercultural Awareness

• Stage 1: Denial: Ignorance of cultural differences; may involve stereotypes.
• Stage 2: Defense: Awareness of differences but feeling intimidated; may lead to ethnocentrism.
• Stage 3: Minimization: Acknowledges differences but emphasizes commonalities; can lead to oversimplification.
• Stage 4: Acceptance: Appreciation of cultural differences; open to learning from others.
• Stage 5: Adaptation: Willingness to adjust perspectives to incorporate diverse viewpoints.
• Stage 6: Integration: Development of a multi-faceted worldview that incorporates various cultural insights.

Cultural Sensitivity and Competence

• Bias: Ranking cultures or having stereotypes leads to misunderstandings.
• Sensitivity: Recognizing one’s own cultural background while respecting others.
• Competent intercultural communicators avoid generalizations and strive for mutual understanding through active engagement.