Communication Basics: Concepts, Models, Contexts, and Misconceptions

A set of vocabulary-style flashcards covering key terms from the lecture notes on communication, its models, contexts, and common misconceptions.

Communication

The process of creating meaning through symbolic interaction; involves symbols, is a process, is irreversible, and is relational.

Symbolic

Relating to symbols used to convey meaning in communication.

Arbitrary

The link between a symbol and what it represents is based on shared interpretation, not inherent.

Process

An ongoing activity of communication embedded in history, perceptions, relationships, and contexts.

Irreversible

Once a message is sent or posted, it cannot be undone or unsent.

Relational

Communication is something people do with others and is shaped by relationships.

Linear Model

A one-way flow where a sender encodes a message, sends it through a channel to a receiver who decodes it, with possible noise.

Channel

The medium through which a message is transmitted (in person, phone, text, etc.).

Noise

Anything that interferes with effective communication.

External Noise

Distractions outside the communicators (e.g., lawnmower, phone vibrations) that hinder listening.

Physiological Noise

Biological factors (fatigue, illness, hunger) that impede listening.

Psychological Noise

Thoughts or feelings that distort or disrupt understanding.

Encoding

The sender's process of turning an idea into a message.

Decoding

The receiver's process of interpreting and assigning meaning to a message.

Feedback

A receiver's perceivable response to a sender's message, which can be verbal or nonverbal.

Environment/Context

The situational and cultural backdrop of communication; overlaps with past experiences.

Interpersonal Communication

Communication in close relationships; can be one-on-one or involve a small group; involves unique individuals.

Small Group Communication

Communication within a small group where most members can participate and group dynamics influence outcomes.

Dyadic Communication

Two-person interaction; can be in person or via electronic means; not always identical to interpersonal.

Intrapersonal Communication

Communication with oneself; internal thoughts and self-talk.

Organizational Communication

Communication within large, formal organizations; roles and culture shape who communicates with whom.

Public Communication

Communication to a group large enough that all members cannot participate; speakers deliver to an audience.

Mass Communication

Messages transmitted to large, diverse audiences via mass media; usually one-way and organized by institutions.

Social Media

Electronic platforms that allow posting, viewing, commenting, and sharing content; blurs lines between mass and personal contexts; content is user-generated and audience size varies.

Clickbait

Content designed to lure users into clicking a link; can be engaging but distracting.

Disinhibition

Tendency to post provocative content online due to reduced social cues.

Self-Monitoring

Paying close attention to situational cues and adapting behavior accordingly; high self-monitors adjust to contexts.

Empathy

The ability to understand another's point of view and imagine how issues look to someone else.

Flexibility

Having a wide repertoire of responses and choosing the most appropriate behavior for a given situation.

Communication Competence

Achieving goals in a way that maintains or enhances the relationship; competence is situational, learnable, and relational.

Committed

Being emotionally invested in a relationship, which encourages open discussion of difficult topics.

Myth 1

Communication requires complete understanding; not always necessary.

Myth 2

Communication can solve all problems; it is not a guaranteed cure-all.

Myth 3

Communication is inherently good; its value depends on how it is used.

Myth 4

Meanings are in words; meanings are in people and can vary.

Myth 5

Communication is simple; it is a learnable skill that requires practice.

Myth 6

More communication is always better; sometimes too much can worsen a situation.