1. Definition of Communication
Communication is the sharing of information between two or more individuals or within a group to reach a common understanding.
It is a two-way process of giving (speaking/writing) and receiving (listening/reading) information.
2. Importance of Communication
- Helps to inform others (e.g., timetable of exam).
- Helps to influence others (e.g., bargaining, motivating).
- Helps to express feelings (e.g., sharing happiness, sadness).
3. Elements of Communication
- Sender → Message → Medium → Receiver → Feedback
- Ensures smooth two-way flow of ideas.
4. Barriers in Communication
- Language – Unfamiliar or incorrect words cause confusion.
- Visual Perception – Misinterpreting visuals or incomplete images.
- Past Experience – Earlier negative events affect present understanding.
- Prejudice – Fixed ideas (e.g., “Nobody likes me”) limit communication.
- Feelings – Emotions like anger, sadness, lack of interest reduce clarity.
- Environment – Noise and disturbances make communication difficult.
- Personal Factors – Fear, low confidence, or habits block communication.
- Culture – Gestures/signs may have different meanings across cultures.
5. 7Cs of Effective Communication
- Clear – Easy to understand.
- Concise – Short and to the point.
- Concrete – Specific and not vague.
- Correct – Accurate and error-free.
- Coherent – Logical flow of ideas.
- Complete – Provides all necessary information.
- Courteous – Polite and respectful.
6. Types of Communication
(a) Verbal Communication
- Definition: Communication using spoken or written words.
- Examples: Face-to-face talk, telephone, classroom teaching, letters, emails.
- Advantages: Quick, easy, allows immediate feedback, clarifies ideas.
- Disadvantages: Language/cultural differences cause confusion; words may be misinterpreted; accent/slang may reduce clarity.
(b) Non-Verbal Communication
- Definition: Communication without words – using gestures, facial expressions, posture, touch, eye contact, and paralanguage (tone, speed, volume).
- Advantages: Makes message stronger; useful when words can’t be heard; shows emotions clearly.
- Disadvantages: May be misunderstood; varies with culture; cannot convey detailed information.
(c) Visual Communication
- Definition: Communication through images, symbols, signs, or pictures.
- Examples: Traffic lights, posters, logos, charts.
- Advantages: Easy to understand; no need of language; attractive and memorable.
- Disadvantages: Cannot explain complex ideas; sometimes needs prior awareness of symbols.
7. Public Speaking
- Definition: Speaking confidently before a group of people.
- 3Ps Method to Improve:
- Prepare – Plan the topic, audience needs, and key points.
- Practice – Rehearse in front of mirror, friends, or family.
- Perform – Stay confident, breathe deeply, and deliver clearly.
- Importance: Builds confidence, improves communication, influences and inspires others.