Human Communications and Its Disorder- Janurary 14

Introduction to the Course and Overview

The mic setup was adjusted for the first language content of the semester.
Reminder: There will be a quiz on Friday, based on today's class content and corresponding reading from Chapter One in the textbook.
Importance of preparation for the quiz, which will cover foundational concepts that are essential for the course.

Teaching assistants Rose and Ellen will lead the class on Friday, facilitating activities to reinforce the concepts discussed in today’s lecture.
Class will include:
- A discussion to deepen understanding of terms and concepts
- A 30-minute timed quiz at the end of the class
Note: No materials will be allowed during the quiz.

The primary learning objective is to provide a better understanding of communication.
The focus for today:
- Develop a working definition of communication
- Overview components of communication and factors affecting it, including communication disorders

Key question posed: What is communication?
- Communication is the process by which we convey messages and understanding between individuals.
Foundational components:
- Shared understanding between sender and receiver
- Sender: The individual who conveys information
- Receiver: The individual who receives information
Example:
- Talking to oneself (e.g., in the car) does not constitute communication due to the absence of a receiver.
Definition of communication provided:
- An exchange of meaning or content between a sender and a receiver.
Communication is fundamental to human experience and understanding language.

Two main components in communication:
- Production: The sender creates or expresses content.
- Comprehension: The receiver understands the information shared.
The speech chain or communication chain concept encompasses both production and comprehension processes.

Expressive language:
- The sender expresses thoughts or ideas through spoken or written forms.
Receptive language:
- The receiver processes and comprehends the expressed information.
Example of productive communication in technology:
- Interactions using AI or digital platforms.

Communication modalities include:
- Spoken Language:
- Involves vocalization and oral expression of language.
- Sign Language:
- Uses manual gestures, facial expressions, and body movements to convey meaning.
It's essential to recognize various modalities of communication when considering definitions.

Verbal Communication:
- Involves the use of words and language, which can be oral or written.
- Oral verbal communication includes spoken language, while written verbal communication includes forms such as texting or emails.
Nonverbal Communication:
- Description: Communication without words, can include gestures, facial expressions, and other forms of body language.
- Examples:
- Whistling, laughing, and other nonverbal sounds (e.g., cheers, groans).
- Gestures like hand movements or facial expressions that accompany speech.

Speech:
- Definition: The physical production of sounds and words using the vocal mechanism (articulation, fluency, and voice).
Language:
- Definition: The system of communication used for sharing meaning through rules governing sounds, words, and sentences.
- Emphasizes shared understanding of meanings and the rules for combining elements of language.
Examples of speech vs. language distinctions are given through video illustrations.

Definition: Communication disorders occur when there is a breakdown in conveying meaning between sender and receiver.
Potential breakdowns can occur on:
- Speech side (e.g., articulation issues)
- Language side (e.g., difficulty retrieving words)
Factors impacting communication disorders can include various medical or health conditions.

Types include:
- Speech Disorders: Involve difficulties with speech production (e.g., articulation, fluency, voice quality).
- Language Disorders: Involve difficulties in understanding or formulating language (expressive or receptive).

Estimated that around 46 million individuals in the U.S. experience communication disorders, representing about 12-13% of the population.
Impact on society:
- Individuals with communication disorders may face challenges in academic performance, workplace challenges, social relationships, and various day-to-day activities.

Recognize that not all communication breakdowns are disorders.
- Typical breakdowns can occur in everyday situations due to misunderstandings or environmental factors.
Recognizing severity:
- Communication disorders occur at levels that consistently affect an individual’s daily functioning.
Etiology of Communication Disorders:
- Organic Disorders:
- Have identifiable causes (e.g., anatomical or neurological issues).
- Functional Disorders:
- Lack known causes; often diagnosed when all potential organic causes are ruled out.

Congenital:
- Present at birth (e.g., cerebral palsy).
Acquired:
- Develops after typical language and speech skills have been established.

Impairment:
- Refers to the health condition affecting the structure or function of communication.
Disability:
- Refers to limitations in everyday activities due to impairment.
Note on cultural sensitivity regarding the use of the term "impairment" particularly concerning deaf or hard of hearing individuals.

Summary of key points covered in class.
Reminder: Quiz on Friday will test the concepts covered today; it's important to review and utilize the textbook for preparation.
Open offering for students to reach out with questions via email regarding today's content or future class topics.