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.