*the sending and receiving of information to achieve understanding *the social process by which people in a specific context construct meaning using symbolic behavior 

Chapter 1-Lesson 1

What is communication?

1. Communication is human.

*4 channels of communication reading, writing, speaking, listening

speaking & listening=speech communication

2. Communication is a social process of constructing meaning.

*The interpretation of words depends on life experiences, values, feelings at the time.

3. Communication is contextual.

*It is influenced by the time and place of the communication. *Speech communication is unique because it allows for face to face contact and immediate feedback.

4. Communication is symbolic.

*It relies on verbal symbols. (words, languages)

*It relies on non verbal symbols.

Chapter 1-Lesson 2

What are some types of communication?

1. intrapersonal communication-communication within oneself(your little voice)

2. interpersonal communication-communication between people as individuals

communication between 2 people (dyad=2)

dyadic/one to one-communication

3 or more people communicating with a common purpose

*to answer a question*to make a decision*to solve a problem

small group-

1 or more senders communicating with a large group of receivers (an audience that is physically present)

ie: play, pastor/priest & congregation, public speaking, lawyer, teacher

public-

1 or more senders communicating with an unlimited number of receivers who are not physically present

-through media (radio, TV, newspaper, etc.)

mass-

to informto persuadeto express feelingsto express imaginationto perform social rituals

Chapter 1-Lesson 3

Reasons to communicate

Chapter 1-Lesson 4

What are some misconceptions of communication?

   1. Communication is always valuable.

-cruel (making fun of people, insults)

-unethical (lying, cheating, breaking promises)

-inappropriate (gossip, talking in class/church)

-unwise (saying too much, sharing info that could hurt you later)

2. Communication is the solution to all problems. ie: wars, divorce, making people like you

3. More communication is always better.

ie: nagging, arguing, “making a mountain out of a molehill”

4.    Meanings are determined by words alone.  Words can mean more than 1 thing.  Words carry emotional and/or cultural associations. (connotation)  Word meanings can be affected by non verbal behaviors. (sarcasm)

  5.   Communication is simple. difficulties speaking (physiological, psychological) difficulties finding the right words for the situation

ie: asking someone out, sharing emotions (love, sorrow)