COM Exam Study Guide

Clever Hans phenomenon and its implications for human communication

The Clever Hans phenomenon demonstrates how a horse communicated through nonverbal cues with his trainer, highlighting the significance of nonverbal signals in human communication and understanding.

Definition of Communication by NCA

People generate meaning through various contexts, cultures, channels, and media.

Definition of Communication by Julia Wood

Kenneth Burke

Kenneth Burke likens communication to drama, stating that people act based on motives. He argued that language shapes our perception of reality and acts as symbolic action.

Five Forms of Communication as Discussed in the Reading "Communication in the Real World", Chapter 1

1. Intrapersonal: Involves personal thoughts and feelings, existing only within oneself.

2. Interpersonal: Direct one-on-one communication.

3. Group: Involves small groups of three or more individuals.

4. Public: Involves communication from one person to a larger audience.

5. Mass Communication: Involves communication from one person to many through various media.

Models of Communication

1. Transmission Model: A one-way model with one sender/encoder, a channel transmitting signals, one receiver/decoder, and subject to noise.

2. Two-Step Flow Model: A mass media model involving opinion leaders (like influencers) and followers.

3. Interactional Model: Distinguishes between sender and receiver, allowing for turn-taking in communication.

4. Transactional Model: Involves simultaneous sending and receiving of messages.

Harold Innis and Space and Time Biases

• Space Bias: Reaches an audience quickly and easily but is often temporary.

• Time Bias: Ensures durability and long-lasting media.

James Carey and the Ritual Model

James Carey introduced the ritual model of communication, positing that communication serves not just to inform but to foster connections, share culture, and create meaning.

Collective Communication Model

Involves multiple senders and receivers who are interdependent, mutual, and collective in their communication processes.