ORAL COMM 11: Communication & Its Types

Communicare

A Latin word which means “working as one.”

Communication

• A human activity

• A complex, 2-way process by which information is exchanged between or among individuals through a common system of symbols, signs, and behaviors

Verbal Communication

• The most common and familiar form of human interaction

• Divided into 3: Oral/Spoken Language, Written Language, & Visual Language

Oral/Spoken Language

The use of spoken words and active listening to convey messages between individuals

Written Language

Written texts, letters, chats, etc.

Visual Language

Sign language, symbols, signs, etc., that already have a fixed and established definition.

4 tips on how to properly communicate verbally

• Strive to achieve clarity

• Respect Individual Differences

• Avoid Stereotyping

• Aspire to use comprehensible words

Euphemisms

Sugarcoating words

Stereotyping

Over-generalization of a certain group

Jargons

Occupational words

Non-verbal Communication

• Expressing messages through body language, gestures, etc.

• Can complement, reinforce, or contradict verbal messages.

• Divided into 9 types: Facial expressions, Gestures, Paralinguistics, Body Language, Proxemics, Eye Gaze, Haptics, Appearance, and Artifacts.

Facial Expressions

• Visual cues formed by the movement of facial muscles that convey emotions and reactions.

• Smiling, frowning, etc.

Gestures

• Deliberate movement & signals

• Waving, pointing, etc. May also have cultural significance at times

Paralinguistics

• The vocal elements that accompany speech, including tone, pitch, volume, and pace. They help convey meaning and emotion beyond the words spoken.

Body Language & Posture

• The totality of your body’s movements and gestures that communicate feelings, thoughts, or intentions without using words.

Proxemics

• Personal Space

Eye Gaze

• The direction and focus of one's eyes during communication, indicating attention, interest, and emotional state.

• Staring, glancing, blinking, etc.

Haptics

• Touch

Appearance

• It refers to how a person looks, including their clothing, grooming, hairstyle, and overall presentation.

• This can send important messages about a person’s personality, social status, professionalism, and mood.

Artifacts

• Objects & images used to convey information