Communication Basics Quiz

Definition of Communication

• Communication is the process of expressing ideas, thoughts, feelings, etc. to someone else using words, sounds, signs, or behaviors.
• It stems from the Latin words "communis" and "communicare".
• "Communis" implies that successful communication requires common ground between participants, including:
  • Language
  • Knowledge of the topic
  • Shared interest
  • Cultural understanding
• "Communicare" signifies that communication is an act of sharing, and can be one-way or two-way.

Elements of Communication

• Sender: The originator of the message, also known as the speaker or encoder.
• Message: The central element being transmitted during communication.
• Channel: The pathway through which the message travels to reach its destination.
• Receiver: The recipient of the message, also known as the decoder or listener (in oral communication) or reader (in written communication).
• Context: The situation, setting, or environment where communication takes place.
• Feedback: The receiver's response to the message, completing the communication loop.
• Noise: Any hindrance or interference that can affect the effectiveness of communication.

Types of Communication Noise

• Physical: Interference originating from the communication environment, such as noisy background, small font size.
• Psychological: Interference stemming from the communicator's emotional state or mindset, such as anxiety, depression, or daydreaming.
• Physiological: Interference arising from the communicator's physical condition, such as a cold, menstrual cramps, or a cleft palate.
• Semantic: Interference related to the meaning of words, such as unfamiliarity with words, or different interpretations of specific words.
• Syntactic: Interference related to grammar, structure, or the rules governing word combination, such as grammatical errors that cause confusion.
• Organizational: Interference due to poorly structured or planned messages, leading to misinterpretation.
• Cultural: Interference arising from cultural differences that hinder cross-cultural understanding.

Communication as a Process

• One-way process: Information is sent by one person but the receiver cannot provide feedback. Example: Watching a news program.
• Two-way process: There is an exchange of information, with roles reversed. Example: Conversation between a teacher and student.
• Dynamic process: The communication process is influenced by the communicators' moods and thinking. Example: Students listening to a lesson might have varying levels of understanding.
• Complex process: A message can be interpreted differently by different individuals. Example: Multiple interpretations of a message or instruction.

Characteristics of Communication

• Interaction: Communication fosters connections and relationships through mutual understanding.
• Inevitable: Communication is unavoidable, even without verbal communication. Nonverbal cues like frowning, nodding, or moving away also convey messages.
• Irreversible: Once spoken, words cannot be taken back, emphasizing the importance of being careful with what we say.
• Unrepeatable: Even if the same words are used, the context and circumstances will lead to different results each time.
• Vital: Effective communication is crucial for success in all aspects of life, impacting our experiences at work, home, and in our daily interactions.

Communication Models

• Linear Model: A one-directional model where information flows from the sender to the receiver. Originally conceived by Aristotle and further developed by communication experts like David Berlo.
• Interactive Model: Incorporates feedback from the receiver, making communication two-directional. Introduced by Wilbur Schramm, who also added "Context" and "Fields of Experience" to the model.
• Transactional Model: Developed by Dean Barnlund, this model considers both sender and receiver as "communicators" whose roles are constantly interchanging.
• Helical Model: Proposed by Frank Dance, this model uses a helix to represent the continuous, evolving nature of communication, comparing it to the growth of communication skills from birth to adulthood.

7 C's of Effective Communication

• Clear: Communicate with a clear purpose and message, ensuring easy understanding.
• Concise: Stick to the point and keep the message brief.
• Concrete: Provide details and vivid facts to create a clear picture for the audience.
• Correct: Ensure accuracy of information, appropriate terminology, and error-free writing.
• Coherent: Make sure all points connect logically, are relevant to the main topic, and the tone is consistent.
• Complete: Provide all necessary information and, if applicable, include a clear call to action.