Purposive Communication - Lesson 1: Language & Its Nature

Vocabulary flashcards defining core terms, concepts, characteristics, elements, interference types, models, and principles of communication from Lesson 1.

Purely human

A _______ and non-instinctive way to communicate ideas, emotions, and desires by means of a system of voluntarily produced symbols.

arbitrary

A system of ______ vocal symbols by means of which a social group cooperates.

finite

A set (finite or infinite), each _____ in length and constructed out of a finite set of elements.

Communicare

A Latin term meaning 'to share' or 'to make common' (Weekley, 1967).

systematic

A ________ process in which people interact with and through symbols to create and interpret meanings.

Understanding (McLean, 2003)

To perceive, to interpret, and to relate our perception and interpretation to what we already know.

Dynamic Nature of Communication

The characteristic of communication that it is constantly changing.

Continuous Nature of Communication

An ongoing exchange of meaning and sharing behaviors between or among individuals who operate within a frame of experience.

Adaptive Nature of Communication

The aspect of communication that adapts to changes occurring in its physical and psychological environment.

Systemic Nature of Communication

The characteristic where components of communication are interrelated and interact in a cyclic order.

Transactional Nature of Communication

A unique combination of people, messages, and events consisting of unending sharing (transmission and reception) of messages among people.

Communicator (Source)

The individual who initiates the communication process and conveys the message.

Verbal Message

The content, information, and ideas conveyed through speech or writing.

Nonverbal Message

The tone, body language, and appearance that accompany the verbal message.

Physical Context

The surroundings in which communication takes place, such as lighting, seating, and equipment.

Psychological Context

The mood, expectations, and cultural norms of the participants in communication.

Situational Context

The overall setting, scene, and context of the communication.

Physical Interference

Noise, distance, or technical issues that disrupt the transmission or reception of a message.

Psychological Interference

Distractions, emotions, or preconceptions that affect a receiver's understanding.

Semantic Interference

Communication disruption caused by differences in language, terminology, or cultural references.

Aristotle's Model of Communication

One of the first and simplest communication models, where a speaker delivers a speech on a specific occasion with an expected effect on the audience.

Laswell's Communication Model

A model describing communication through five key elements: communicator (Who), message (What), medium (In which channel), receiver (To whom), and effect (With what effect).

Shannon-Weaver's Communication Model

Known as the 'Mother of Communication Models,' developed specifically for telecommunication systems.

David Berlo's Communication Model (SMCR)

A model that breaks down the communication process into four essential components: Source, Message, Channel, and Receiver.

Wilbur Schramm's Communication Model

A model centered on the concept of 'Field of Experience' or 'Psychological frame of reference,' requiring overlapping fields for smooth communication.

Barnlund's / Transactional Model

A model where communicators simultaneously engage in sending and receiving messages, incorporating feedback and noise, ideal for healthcare settings.

Clarity

A principle of written communication ensuring the content of the message is clear so the audience understands what is being conveyed.

Correctness

A principle of written communication requiring both factual information and language/grammar to be accurate.

Completeness

A principle of written communication requiring all necessary information to be provided so the recipient can reach the intended conclusions.

Conciseness

A principle of written communication focused on keeping messages short and simple without unnecessary words.

Concreteness

A principle of written communication requiring specific details and logical structure where messages support each other.

Courtesy

A principle of written communication stating that messages should be friendly, professional, considerate, respectful, open, and honest.

Considered & Coherent

A principle of written communication requiring a logical flow with consistent style, tone, and language throughout.