Chapter 1 Objectives State reasons why the study of communication is essential Define communication Name the components of communication Explain some principles of communication

Chapter 1 Objectives Explain the differences between the four communication contexts Define communication competence Name the tenets of the NCA Credo on Ethics

Studying Communication Can… Improve the way you see yourself Improve the way others see you Increase what you know about human relationships Teach you important life skills Help you exercise your rights to freedom of speech Help you succeed professionally Help you navigate our diverse world

The process of using messages to generate meaning What is Communication? The process of using messages to generate meaning

What is Communication? Process Messages Meaning Activity, exchange or set of behaviors that occurs over time Messages Verbal and nonverbal symbols, signs, and behaviors Meaning Understanding of the message

Components of Communication People The message The channel Feedback Code Encoding & decoding Noise

Communication Principles Communication begins with the self

Communication Principles Communication involves others Self-image grows out of dialogue with others Communication competence requires sensitivity and responsiveness to others

Communication Principles Communication has both a content and a relational dimension Content message describes expected behavior Relational message suggests how content should be interpreted

Communication Principles Communication is complicated Not just simple message transmission Involves choices about multiple aspects of the message

Communication Principles An increased quantity of communication does not increase the quality of communication Verbiage does not necessarily lead to positive outcomes

Communication Principles Communication is… Inevitable Irreversible Unrepeatable

Communication Contexts A set of circumstances or a situation Affects your choice of the most appropriate channels and codes

Factors in the Context Number of people Degree of formality or intimacy Opportunities for feedback Need for pre-structuring messages Roles of the people

Intrapersonal Communication The process of using messages to generate meaning within the self

Interpersonal Communication The process of using messages to generate meaning between at least two people

Public Communication The process of using messages to generate meanings in a situation where a single source transmits a message to a number of receivers

Mass Communication The process of using messages to generate meanings in a mediated system, between a source and a large number of receivers

Computer-Mediated Communication Human communication and the sharing of information through communication networks

Goals of Communication Study Communication competence Effectively exchanging meaning through a common system of symbols, signs, or behavior Ethical communication The NCA “Nine Commandments” for communication