Speak Up! Chapter 1 Flashcards

Communication Concepts

• Source: Individual who creates and transmits a message to an audience.
• Message: Ideas conveyed through verbal or nonverbal communication by the source.
• Encode: The process of selecting symbols to form and deliver a message.
• Verbal Symbol: Spoken, written, or recorded words used to communicate a message.
• Nonverbal Symbol: Communication methods that do not involve words, such as gestures and facial expressions.
• Channel: The medium utilized to deliver a message, e.g., voice projection, microphones, or digital platforms.
• Receivers: Individuals who interpret and understand the messages sent by the source.
• Decode: The interpretation of a message through understanding symbols used by the source.
• Noise (Interference): Disruptive elements that can hinder communication, either external (e.g., loud sounds) or internal (e.g., distracted thoughts).
• Transaction: An interactive communication process where all participants simultaneously send and receive messages.

Communication Dynamics

• Feedback: Responses from the audience, both verbal and nonverbal, that indicate their reception of the source's message.
• Shared Meaning: A mutual understanding among participants that minimizes confusion during communication.
• Culture: The shared values, traditions, and rules that shape an individual's perspective and inform their communication style.
• World View: The framework through which people interpret information, which influences their reception and understanding of messages.

Public Speaking Insights

• Critical Thinking: The evaluation of ideas based on accuracy and reliability, important for assessing one’s own and others' assumptions.
• Freedom of Expression: The fundamental right to share ideas without censorship.
• Ethics: Collective guidelines that help navigate right and wrong conduct in communication.

Characteristics and Impact of Public Speaking

• Distinguishing Features: Public speaking involves speaker-audience interaction, centers around the audience, prioritizes spoken word, and necessitates preparation.
• Positive Impact: Competent public speaking boosts confidence in professional settings, enhances communication skills in educational contexts, and improves community interactions.

Historical Context and Models

• Tradition of Public Speaking: Historically significant; has been used to inform and influence societies (e.g., Greek assemblies, African bard traditions, U.S. civil rights speeches).
• Transactional Model: Describes continuous, two-way communication flow, contrasting with the outdated linear model that depicts communication as a one-way process.

Influence of Technology and Cultural Considerations

• Technological Changes: Advances have transformed public speaking from face-to-face interactions to various digital platforms like social media, podcasts, and webinars.
• Cultural Awareness: A speaker must consider the audience's cultural background to gauge reactions accurately and tailor messages effectively.

Application of Critical Thinking and Ethics

• Critical Thinking in Speaking: Involves assessing the validity of claims and ensuring well-researched, logical arguments.
• Ethical Behavior in Speaking: Essential for establishing trust and credibility with an audience; dishonest behavior undermines reliability and respect.

Test your knowledge of key terms and concepts from Chapter 1 of 'Speak Up!' This quiz covers important communication models, including definitions for source, message, and encoding. Enhance your understanding and preparation for discussions.