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What is Communication?
- 1. Introduction to Communica tion
- 3. What is Communication? Older Models
- 4. Problems?
- 6. Five Myths of Communicat ion
- 7. Communicatio n
- 8. Quantity means Quality
- 9. Meaning is in the Words We Use
- 10. Communica tion is Reversible
- 11. We Have the Natural Ability to Communicat e
- 12. Studying Communication • Speech • Public Communication – Public Relations – Media • Com Studies – Small Group and Interpersonal – Intercultural – Organizational – Family – Health
- 13. What are your strengths and weaknesses as a communicator?
Notas del editor
- Older models of communication view it as a linear process. In this model, the communicator simply develops the message and sends it out.
- Of course we see several problems with this view of communication. For example, why is it that we can say the same exact message to two different people, but one person is persuaded but the other is not? Why is it that a Wendy’s commercial can talk one person into eating there but not everyone? In a speech class, I could give you advice on how to perform a speech in front of a particular audience, but it may not be applicable to all situations. Most people, however, still view communication this way. We want to follow a formula. This leads to all sorts of problems including cultural bias ranging from simple misunderstandings to racism.
- Older models of communication view it as a linear process. In this model, the communicator simply develops the message and sends it out.
- Of course, communication is important to fix relationships, but simply “communicating” will fix nothing. It has to be effective communication. If you cheat on your girlfriend or boyfriend, for example, you most likely won’t be able to fix the relationship by simply talking. The old adage that great relationships need communication is only part of the truth. Good communication means understanding all 8 elements of the com model. Let’s remember also, that knowing when to shut up is just as effective as talking. This leads to our next Myth:
- In most cases, people value brevity over wordiness. It also means that talking too much can hurt a relationship just as much as not talking enough. Again, it is important that we address all the elements of communication, not just the message.
- Words only have arbitrary associations to meanings. In order for a word to have meaning, everyone in a given culture must agree to the meanings. The word fag, for example, has a controversial history. Many adolescents use the term to refer to people who are socially undesirable. However, the word has often been used as a derogatory meaning directed toward the gay and lesbian community. So even if you did not mean to offend someone by using the term fag, it is offensive in a given culture. This leads to our next myth
- You cannot unsay things. Even if you did not intend on hurting the other person, judgments are often made as soon as the message is delivered. For example, Mel Gibson, a famous actor, has a history of using profanity toward other people, then coming out later with an apology. Too late, most people have already developed an attitude toward him.
- Probably the most difficult element to argue. Yes, we are born with the tools, but it takes a lot of practice to develop our communication skills. Gifted speakers like presidents and CEOs work incredibly hard. Steve Jobs, a CEO of Apple and well known for his great presentations, spends about 90 hours for every 1 hour of a presentation. He has been doing this since the early 80s! Or, contrast Obama’s well prepared speeches to his off-the-cuff discussions. There is a tremendous difference!