Oral Communication in Context - Nature, Elements, Models, and 7Cs (Vocabulary Flashcards)

Vocabulary flashcards covering key concepts from the notes: definition, processes, elements, models, and 7Cs of effective communication.

Definition of Communication

A process of sharing and conveying messages or information from one person to another within and across channels, contexts, media, and cultures (McCornack, 2014). It is a process of creating, interpreting, and negotiating meaning that is a learned behavior.

Process of Communication

A sequence of steps to deliver and process messages; communication is a process involving two or more people (sender and receiver), using written/spoken words, non-verbal cues, or both; etymology from Latin communicatio and communicare (to make common).

Sender/Speaker

The source of information or message in a communication event.

Message

The information, ideas, or thoughts conveyed by the speaker in words or actions.

Encoding

The process of converting the message into words, actions, or other forms that the speaker understands.

Channel

The medium or means through which the encoded message is conveyed (personal or non-personal, verbal or non-verbal).

Decoding

The process of interpreting the encoded message by the receiver.

Receiver

The recipient of the message, or someone who decodes the message.

Feedback

The reactions, responses, or information provided by the receiver.

Context

The environment where communication takes place.

Barrier

Factors that affect the flow of communication.

Linear Model

A one-way, linear model developed by Shannon & Weaver (1948); consists of a sender, channel, noise, and receiver; limited by lack of feedback and one-directionality.

Noise

Interference or distortion of the message within the channel.

Interactional Model (Schramm)

A dynamic two-channel model with feedback; emphasizes the field of experience; both parties can send and receive but not simultaneously; feedback signals comprehension.

Field of Experience

Environment, experiences, culture, and heredity that influence how a sender constructs a message; overlapping fields of experience affect understanding.

Transactional Model

The most dynamic model; describes communication as a transaction with communicators as co-creators; overlapping fields of experience; messages are interdependent.

7 Cs of Effective Communication

A framework of seven guidelines to improve messages: Completeness, Conciseness, Consideration, Concreteness, Courtesy, Clarity, Correctness.

Completeness

Providing all information the receiver needs to respond, react, evaluate, or give feedback.

Conciseness

Being direct and to the point; avoiding unnecessary words.

Consideration

Taking into account the receiver’s mood, background, needs, and circumstances to establish connection.

Concreteness

Using facts, statistics, and real-life examples to support the message.

Courtesy

Respectting the receiver’s culture, values, and beliefs to ensure a positive impact and effective interaction.

Clarity

Using simple, specific words to express ideas and reduce misinterpretation.

Correctness

Accuracy of data and proper grammar to enhance credibility and effectiveness.

Nature of Communication

A process involving two or more people that can be verbal or non-verbal, and is continuous and dynamic.

Elements of Communication (Overview)

Sender, Message, Encoding, Channel, Decoding, Receiver, Feedback, Context, and Barrier.

Origin/Etymology of ‘Communication’

Derived from Latin communicatio (sharing or imparting); communicare means to make common.

Definition of Communication (Alternative)

The act of sharing information across channels, contexts, media, and cultures to convey meaning.

Functions of Communication

Roles such as Control, Social Interaction, Motivation, Emotional expression, and Information dissemination.