Communication Definition and Importance

Communication Definition and Importance

• Communication involves a two-way process that connects individuals to both living and non-living entities.
• It serves as a medium for sharing messages, ideas, and feelings to foster mutual understanding.
• Key methods of expression include verbal communication, gestures, signals, and signs.

Process of Communication

• Development of an idea by the speaker to convey.
• Encoding the idea into language for transmission.
• Sending the message through a chosen medium or channel.
• Receiver interprets or decodes the incoming message.
• Feedback is provided by the receiver to complete the communication loop.

Communication Models

• Communication models represent systematic processes essential for understanding message transmission.
• Successful communication is achieved when a message is effectively sent and received.

Linear/Transmission Model

• Characterized by one-directional communication and lacks feedback.
• Aristotle’s Model focuses on persuasive communication techniques.
• Shannon-Weaver Model introduced the concept of noise affecting communication and the significance of encoding and decoding.

Transactional Model

• Emphasizes interpersonal communication where roles of sender and receiver interchange, allowing for immediate feedback.
• Recognizes barriers to effective communication, particularly noise.
• Dance’s Helix Model illustrates how messages improve over time via feedback, expanding our understanding.

Interactive/Convergence Model

• Reflects newer communication forms, especially through the internet.
• Involves impersonal, two-way communication with delayed feedback.
• Key components include sender, message, receiver, feedback, and field of experience (commonality).

Characteristics of Communication

• Communication is inherently circular, emphasizing equal exchange.
• Requires interpretation through encoding, decoding, and interpreting messages.

Communication Breakdown

• Occurs when the intended message is misinterpreted by the receiver.

Barriers to Communication

• Physical Barriers: Environmental or natural conditions hindering message transmission.
• Psychological Barriers: Personal issues affecting communication efficacy.
• Cultural Barriers: Intrinsic values and traditions causing misunderstandings.
• Linguistic Barriers: Issues arising from differing language meanings, leading to confusion.
• Types of Noise:
  • External Noise: Distractions from the environment.
  • Internal Noise: Personal thoughts and feelings interfering with understanding.
  • Semantic Noise: Misinterpretations arising from vague symbols or terms.

Strategies to Avoid Communication Breakdown

• Cultivate clarity of thought prior to communication.
• Improve listening skills to enhance understanding.
• Be mindful of body language and tone of voice.
• Foster confidence by seeking constructive feedback.