CMS 111: Communication Meaning and Characteristics

Vocabulary flashcards covering the definitions, key characteristics, and foundational concepts from CMS 111: Introduction to Human Communication.

Communication (Meaning Creation)

How we make meaning of our surroundings and all the people with whom we interact.

Communication (Exchange Definition)

The act of giving, receiving or exchanging information, ideas and opinions so that the message is completely understood by both parties.

Communication (Symbolic Interaction Definition)

The process of making meaning through symbolic interaction.

Communication (System Definition)

A process by which information is exchanged between individuals through a common system of symbols, signs, or behaviour.

Communication Process

A continuous, ongoing process that does not just occur in a discrete, individual act.

Relational Communication

Communication that is not something we do to others, but something we do with them.

Symbolic Communication

Communication that is made possible by the use of symbols.

Channels

The means via which messages are conveyed in communication.

Contextual Communication

Communication that occurs within a context that influences its meaning and success.

Irreversible Communication

The characteristic stating that once a message is sent, it cannot be completely taken back.

CMS 111

Introduction to Human Communication, a course taught by Aifuwa Edosomwan, PhD at the School of Media and Communication, Pan-Atlantic University.

DeVito (2006)

Author of "Human communication: the basic course" (10th edition, Boston, Allyn and Bacon).

McQuail (2010)

Author of "McQuail’s cass communication theory" (6th edition, London: Sage Publications Ltd).