Intro to Human Communication — Key Vocabulary

Vocabulary flashcards created from the lecture notes to help review core concepts in communication competence.

Communication competence

The balance of task effectiveness and relational appropriateness, enabling effective and appropriate communication across contexts.

Task effectiveness

The degree to which communication helps accomplish goals, convey requests, and deliver clear action items.

Relational appropriateness

How action items are conveyed with regard to the relationship, including formality, tone, and sensitivity to others.

Balance of task and relationship

The idea that effective communication requires both getting things done and maintaining positive relationships.

Relational connection

The social rapport and empathy used to engage others while still achieving tasks.

Professional distance

Maintaining appropriate boundaries to keep communication respectful and effective in professional contexts (e.g., therapy).

Growth mindset in communication

Belief that communication skills can be developed through practice and feedback, not fixed.

Group project leadership

Strategies to coordinate tasks, foster collaboration, and manage dynamics to complete a group project successfully.

Buffers in group work

Plans or allowances that accommodate delays or problems to keep a project on track.

Contextual formality

Varying levels of formality, seriousness, and urgency depending on the audience and setting.

Task-oriented communication

Communication that clearly conveys actions, requirements, and goals.

Relational-oriented communication

Communication that emphasizes empathy, connection, and support within appropriate boundaries.

Unsportsmanlike conduct analogy

An illustration of how overemphasizing one aspect (task or relationship) can undermine overall communication quality.

Contextual adaptation

Adjusting communication style to fit different environments—from home to school to workplace.