Recording-2025-02-24T06:30:22.428Z

Introduction to the History of Communication

• The first printer was invented by Johann Gutenberg.

• Important Notes:

  • The name can be pronounced differently, such as Gartenberg.

The Age of Writing vs. The Age of Print

• Age of Writing:

  • Writing was exclusive to

    • The wealthy and influential individuals.

  • Copying was expensive, making reading a luxury.

• Age of Print:

  • Democratized reading as books became more affordable.

  • Mass production of newspapers and books occurred, increasing access to written material.

The Age of Digital Media

• Following the age of print, the Age of Digital Media emerged.

• Key Characteristics:

  • Communication reached large audiences simultaneously through mediums like newspapers, television, and radio.

  • The evolution of media has significantly influenced informational dissemination.

Media '24 Closure

• Discussed the recent closure of Media '24 and its implications.

Transition to Chapter 2

• Overview of the expectations for upcoming lectures:

  • Learning the structuralist approach to communication.

  • Understanding different models of communication.

  • Exploring communication from a constructivist, meaning-centered approach.

Expectations for the Week

1. Discuss the structuralist approach to communication.

2. Explain various models of communication.

3. Analyze communication from a constructivist approach.

4. Discuss reasons why humans communicate from both structuralist and constructivist perspectives.

5. Examine communication contexts and evaluate communication theories and research traditions.

Structuralism vs. Constructivism

• Structuralism:

  • Focuses on structures and underlying systems that shape communication processes.

  • Emphasizes patterns, rules, and relationships within communication.

• Constructivism:

  • Views communication as a socially constructed process.

  • Highlights the role of individuals in shaping their communication through subjective interpretations.

Communication Models

• Interaction is described using different perspectives:

  • Communication is both information transmission and a reciprocal transaction.

Structuralist Models of Communication

1. Laswell's Model (1948):

   • Considered linear transmission of information.

   • Components:

     • Communicator: Who sends the message.

     • Message: What is communicated.

     • Medium: The channel used.

     • Recipient: Who receives the message.

     • Effect: Outcome on the receiver.

   • Key Point: No feedback mechanism in this model.

2. Shannon and Weaver Model (1949):

   • Expands on Laswell’s model with the addition of noise and signal loss.

   • Components include:

     • Information source, transmitter, channel, receiver, and destination.

   • Focused on the technical aspects of communication.

   • Also linear, without an immediate feedback mechanism.

Communication Hierarchy and Maslow's Needs

• Discussed Maslow's hierarchy of needs as a basis for understanding motivation in communication.

Summary of Learning Points For This Week

• Focus will be on further explaining the structuralist approach and models including Laswell’s model and the Shannon and Weaver model.

• Feedback aspects in communication are crucial but often not considered in linear models.

Conclusion

• Today's lecture emphasized the importance of understanding historical context in communication.

• Emphasized key historical figures like Gutenberg and concepts of structuralism vs. constructivism.

• Reminder to engage with the assigned textbook and to thoroughly understand models for upcoming assessments.