Communication Processes, Principles, and Ethics This module covers the fundamental concepts, processes, principles, and ethics of communication. It explores the nature, elements, and functions of communication in various multicultural contexts. Students will learn key communication concepts, understand different communication contexts, examine ethical principles, and reflect on their own experiences as communicators in the digital age. MJ
What is Communication? Definition Communication is the process of exchanging information, ideas, thoughts, and feelings between individuals or groups. Components It involves a sender who conveys a message and a receiver who interprets that message. Importance Effective communication is crucial in personal, academic, and professional settings as it helps build relationships, facilitate understanding, and achieve goals.
Key Elements of Communication Sender The individual or entity initiating the communication. They encode and send the message. Message The information, idea, or feeling that is being communicated. This can be verbal or non-verbal. Medium/Channel The method or platform used to convey the message, such as speaking, writing, or digital communication. Receiver The individual or entity who receives and decodes the message.
Additional Communication Elements Feedback The response from the receiver back to the sender, which indicates whether the message was understood. Noise Any interference that can distort or hinder the message, such as background noise, language barriers, or misunderstandings. Context The situation and environment in which the communication takes place, influencing how messages are interpreted.
Types of Communication: Verbal Definition Verbal communication involves the use of spoken or written words to convey messages. Methods It can take place face-to-face, over the phone, or through digital media. Example During a meeting, a manager gives a presentation (spoken message) to team members (receivers). The team members may take notes or ask questions (feedback).
Types of Communication: Non-Verbal Body Language Non-verbal communication includes body language, facial expressions, gestures, posture, and eye contact. Complementary Role It often complements or contrasts with verbal communication, adding depth to the message. Example A teacher nodding and smiling while praising a student (non-verbal communication) can reinforce the positive feedback given verbally.
Types of Communication: Written Definition Written communication involves conveying messages through writing. Characteristics It can be formal or informal and is often used for documentation. Example A company sends a formal report (written document) to stakeholders. The stakeholders read and analyze the report (receiver).
Types of Communication: Visual Definition Visual communication uses images, charts, graphs, and other visual aids to convey information. Benefits It can enhance understanding and retention of complex information. Example A marketer uses infographics in a presentation to illustrate sales trends to an audience, helping them grasp complex data more easily.
Communication Models: Linear Model Sender Initiates the communication process by encoding and sending the message. Message The information or idea being communicated, transmitted through a chosen channel. Receiver Receives and decodes the message without providing immediate feedback.
Communication Models: Interactive Model Sender Initiates communication and sends the message. Message Information transmitted between sender and receiver. Receiver Receives the message and provides feedback.
Communication Models: Transactional Model Sender/Receiver Both parties simultaneously send and receive messages. Message Exchange Continuous flow of information between participants. Context Surrounding environment and factors influencing communication.
Barriers to Effective Communication Noise Physical or psychological interference that affects message clarity (e.g., loud background noise, language barriers). Misunderstanding Misinterpretation of messages due to unclear or ambiguous language. Emotional Barriers Emotional states (e.g., anger, stress) that can affect how messages are sent and received. Cultural Differences Variations in cultural norms and practices that can lead to miscommunication.
The Communication Process 1 Source The sender of the message, beginning with an idea to communicate. 2 Message The idea the sender wants to convey to the receiver. 3 Encoding Converting thoughts into verbal or nonverbal symbols. 4 Channel The method used to transmit the message.
The Communication Process (Continued) 1 Decoding The receiver's mental processing of the message. 2 Receiver The person or group who gets the message. 3 Feedback The receiver's response or reaction to the message. 4 Context The situation in which communication takes place.
Key Principles of Communication: Part 1 Inescapable Communication is everywhere and essential for interaction. Irreversible Once communicated, messages cannot be taken back. Complicated Many factors influence how messages are interpreted.
Key Principles of Communication: Part 2 Contextual Communication is affected by various contextual factors. Psychological Context Personal needs, desires, values, and beliefs influence communication. Relational Context Reactions based on relationships between communicators.
Communication Contexts Situational Context The psycho-social "where" of communication. Environmental Context The physical "where" of communication. Cultural Context Learned behaviors and rules affecting interaction.
Cultural Differences in Communication: Thumbs Up Positive Meaning In many Western cultures, thumbs up is a sign of approval or agreement. Negative Meaning In Bangladesh, the thumbs up gesture is considered an insult. Cultural Variation In certain parts of the Middle East, thumbs up is highly offensive.
Cultural Differences in Communication: OK Gesture Positive Meaning In English-speaking countries, the OK gesture means everything is fine or perfect. Negative Meaning In Brazil, the OK gesture is considered a rude gesture. Historical Example In the 1950s, Richard Nixon used the OK sign in Brazil, causing unintended offense.
Morals vs Ethics in Communication Morals Personal codes of conduct. Individual set of rules not imposed on others. Ethics Societal standards of "good and bad". Rules accepted and approved by society, imposed on everyone.
Ethics in Communication: Part 1 1 Mutuality Pay attention to the needs of others, as well as yours. 2 Individual Dignity Preserve the dignity of others by not embarrassing them, even if their ideas differ. 3 Accuracy Provide correct information and avoid spreading fake information.
Ethics in Communication: Part 2 1 Access to Information Ensure others have access to information. Don't use information as leverage. 2 Accountability Take responsibility for the consequences of your communication. 3 Audience Responsibility As a receiver of information, you also have ethical responsibilities.
Ethics in Communication: Part 3 1 Relative Truth Respect others' points of view, recognizing different realities. 2 End vs. Means The ends do not justify unethical or illegal means. 3 Use of Power Those in positions of authority have greater responsibility for outcomes.
Millennial Communication: Digital Focus Digital Platforms Millennials primarily use digital platforms like social media, instant messaging, and video calls. Efficiency Preference for quick, efficient interactions reflects comfort with technology. Multi-Channel Often use multiple channels simultaneously to communicate.
Millennial Communication: Language and Style Informal Language Use of slang, abbreviations, and informal expressions in communication. Emojis and GIFs Frequent use of emojis and GIFs to add emotional nuance and context to messages. Visual Communication Inclination to use visual and multimedia elements to enhance communication.
Millennial Communication: Social Media Engagement Connectivity Use social media to connect with friends, family, and broader networks. Brand Interaction Engage with brands and share opinions on social platforms. Information Sharing Use social media to stay informed and share news and experiences.
Advantages of Millennial Communication Efficiency Digital tools allow for quick and convenient communication. Expressiveness Emojis, GIFs, and multimedia add emotional depth and clarity to messages. Connectivity Social media keeps millennials connected with a wide network of people.
Challenges in Millennial Communication Miscommunication Informal language and overuse of emojis can sometimes lead to misunderstandings. Privacy Concerns Sharing personal information on social media can raise privacy issues. Digital Overload Constant notifications and messages can contribute to digital fatigue.