1. Meaning of Communication
Communication refers to the structured and purposeful process by which individuals or groups transmit and receive information, emotions, and intentions using verbal, nonverbal, or symbolic means. It is a core human activity fundamental to social interaction, organizational functioning, academic exchange, and cultural continuity. Effective communication promotes shared understanding, fosters collaboration, and facilitates decision-making across diverse contexts.
2. Definition of Communication
- Oxford Dictionary: “The imparting or exchanging of information by speaking, writing, or using some other medium.”
- Keith Davis: “Communication is the process of passing information and understanding from one person to another.”
- Louis A. Allen: “Communication is the sum total of all the things that a person does when he wants to create understanding in the mind of another.”
- Newman and Summer: “Communication is an exchange of facts, ideas, opinions or emotions by two or more persons.”
3. Principles of Effective Communication
- Clarity
- Conciseness
- Completeness
- Correctness
- Courtesy
- Feedback
- Consistency
- Consideration
- Timeliness
- Purpose
- Adaptability
- Engagement
4. The Communication Process
Communication involves a systematic sequence of actions:
- Sender
- Message
- Encoding
- Channel
- Receiver
- Decoding
- Feedback
- Noise
5. Visual Communication Model
Sender → Encoding → Message → Channel → Receiver → Decoding → Feedback
Note: Noise may affect any stage and hinder communication effectiveness.
6. Communication Models
A. Linear Model (Shannon and Weaver)
- One-way transmission
- Suited for media broadcasts and directives
B. Interactive Model (Schramm)
- Two-way with feedback
- Includes fields of experience
C. Transactional Model
- Simultaneous exchange
- Contextual and relational emphasis
7. Barriers to Communication
- Physical: Noise, distance
- Semantic: Language ambiguity
- Psychological: Emotions, mental health
- Cultural: Norms, values, context
- Organizational: Hierarchies, bureaucracy
- Perceptual: Bias, interpretation gaps
Strategies: Use plain language, adapt to audience, practice empathy, minimize distractions, and encourage feedback.
8. Verbal and Nonverbal Communication
A. Verbal Communication
- Oral: Dialogues, presentations
- Written: Reports, articles, digital media
Advantages:
- Clarity in complex subjects
- Documentation and reference
Limitations:
- Language dependency
- Interpretation affected by delivery
B. Nonverbal Communication
- Kinesics: Gestures, eye contact
- Paralanguage: Tone, pitch
- Proxemics: Space and distance
- Chronemics: Time usage
- Haptics: Touch communication
- Appearance: Dress, grooming
- Silence: Strategic use of pauses
Advantages:
- Reveals emotions and attitudes
- Supports verbal communication
Limitations:
- Culturally variable meanings
- May be ambiguous or misread
This comprehensive framework is intended for academic and professional contexts. Contact if you require an infographic, PowerPoint version, or editable source format.