Lesson 1: Getting to Know You, Getting to Know Me - Effective Communication Notes

Vocabulary terms and definitions from Lesson 1 on Effective Communication, including communication elements, styles, and theoretical models.

Communication

A process that requires the integration and application of reading, listening, speaking, and viewing skills.

Effective Communication (Murphy, Hildebrandt, and Thomas, $1997$)

Communication that is only effective when it achieves the desired response or reaction.

Effective Communication (Powers, $2010$)

A two-way activity involving both the sender and receiver of the message.

Effective Communication (Adler and Elmhorst, $2019$)

Conveying messages that are clear, understandable, and achieve intended results.

Sender

The source of communication, main speaker, or speakers.

Message

The thought, idea, or information the sender is sending.

Channel

The delivery of the message or the medium used.

Receiver

The individual who receives, decodes, and interprets the message.

Feedback

The response after decoding, which can be verbal, nonverbal, or in other forms.

Interference

The barrier in communication, such as noise, illness, or culture.

Language

Refers to word choice and sentence structure in communicating with others.

Tone

Refers to the mood, emotions, or attitude that one conveys as they write or deliver their message.

Passive Communication Style

A style where the individual tends to suppress their thoughts and keeps their own opinions quiet to avoid potential discord.

Aggressive Communication Style

Imposes their perspective while disregarding others' feelings or viewpoints; sometimes comes off as dominant, blunt, or impolite.

Passive-Aggressive Communication Style

Expresses themselves indirectly and can seem vague or subtly critical.

Assertive Communication Style

Expresses their thoughts while equally respecting and considering others' ideas, keeping communication balanced.

Aristotle

Known as the ‘Father of Rhetoric’; presented the first and earliest model of communication identifying sender, speech/message, and receiver.

Wilbur Schramm

Known as the ‘Father of Mass Communication’; stressed that individuals have unique fields of experience that affect understanding and interpretations.

Eugene White

Emphasized that communication is not a linear process but a circular or continuous one, highlighting the importance of feedback.

Shannon-Weaver communication model

A model that views communication as a one-way process.