Continuation of Lesson 2…

Process of Communication- The process of communication refers to the transmission or pas-

sage of information or message from the sender through a selected channel to the receiver over-
coming barriers that affect its pace. The process is a cyclic one as it begins with the sender and
ends with the sender in the form of feedback. It takes place upward, downward and laterally
throughout the organization. It must be a continuous and dynamic interaction, both affecting and
being affected by many variables.
The diagram below shows the five main processes of communication. The processes are:
1.
sender,
2. Trans-
mission,
3. Noise,
4. Re-
ceiver, 5.
Feed-
back.
Process
1.
Sender:
Communication starts with the sender, who is the initiator of the message. After generating an
idea, the sender encodes it in a way that can be comprehended by the receiver. Encoding refers to
the process by which the sender translates his thoughts into a series of verbal and non-verbal
actions that he feels will communicate the message to the intended receiver.
Process 2. Transmission: The information that the sender wants to communicate is transmitted
over a channel through which the message travels to the receiver. A channel connects the sender
to the receiver.
Process 3. Noise: Noise is anything that has a disturbing influence on the message. Since noise
hinders communication, the sender should choose a channel that is free from noise. Noise may
occur at the sender’s end, during transmission, or at the receiver’s end.
Example of Noise:
  Ambiguous symbols that lead to faulty encoding
 A poor telephone connection
 An inattentive receiver
 Faulty decoding (attaching the wrong meaning to the message)
 Prejudices obstructing the poor understanding of a message
 Gestures and postures that may distort the message
Process 4. Receiver: The receiver is the person to whom the message is transmitted. In order to
decode the message, the receiver has to be ready to receive the message. That is, the receiver
should not be preoccupied with other thoughts that might cause him to pay insufficient attention to
the message. Decoding refers to the process of translation of symbols encoded by the sender into
ideas that can be understood.

Process 5. Feedback: A message generated by the receiver in response to the sender’s original
message is known as feedback. Feedback is necessary to ensure that the message has been
effectively encoded, transmitted, decoded and understood. It helps a sender evaluate the
effectiveness of his message, so that he can modify his subsequent messages. Feedback also
confirms whether there has been any change in the behaviour of the individual or in the
organization as a result of communication.

Assessment:
1. Explain the process of communication.
 2. What do you think is the most important element in the communication process? Justify
your answer.
3. If you could include one more element of communication, what will you include? Explain
your answer.
4. Give the importance of feedback in a communication process.

Lesson 3: Models of Communication

The goal of communication is to transmit information and the understanding information-from one
person or group to another person or group. Familiarizing the communication model will help to
know about the various aspects of communication. Moreover, essential elements of
communication process are presented through the communication models and measure the
effectiveness of communication.

COMMUNICATION MODELS- A model is often abstract. It is a representation of a real world

phenomenon applied to different forms.
A. Linear Communication model- The linear model’s behavior is belied by its name, where a
sender encodes a message via a channel and the message is decoded by the receiver.  It
is straight-line communication found typically in mass communication; think television,
radio, newspapers, etc.  According to this model, there is no means for immediate
feedback.
 Shannon- Weaver Model- it is known as the mother of all communication models.
The Shannon-weaver model (1949) depicts communication as a linear or one-way
process consisting of five elements: a source (producer of message); a transmitter
(encoder of message into signals); a channel (signals adapted for transmission); a
receiver (decoder of message from the signal); and destination.
B. Interactive Communication Model- It allows for a feedback element because after a
message is encoded and sent to the decoding receiver, the roles then reverse and the
receiver encodes and sends a response to the original sender who has now turned
receiver.  

Components of Interactive Model

 Encoder-Source-Decoder: The person who originates a message is the source. The encoder
and decoder are the same person/source. The second source is also encoder as well as de -
coder. The source acts as an encoder while sending the message and as decoder while re-
ceiving the message.
The second source decodes the message, then originates another message, encodes it and
sends it to the first source. The source is known to be encoder and decoder during the act of
encoding and decoding.
 Message: Message is the information sent during the interaction.
 Feedback: The decoder forms a second message after receiving the first which is known as
feedback.
 Field of Experience: Field of experience is the experience and knowledge that the source
possesses which affects the message formation and interpretation. For example, the
source’s culture, social behavior, etc.
 C. Transactional Communication Model- This model depicts face-to-face interaction, or
“trans-action” as a dynamic and changeable process that is not limited to simple definition. 
In the Transactional Model, receiver and sender can play the same roles simultaneously, as
sometimes happens, as messages can be sent back and forth simultaneously. 
Assessment:
1. What are communication models? Why do you think they were introduced?
2. If you were to choose a conceptual model for communication, what would you prefer
and why? How can you be guided by any of these models when you communicate

Lesson 4: Types and Level of Communication

Communication skills are vital to a healthy, efficient workplace. Learning and developing good
communication skills can help you succeed in your career, make you a competitive job candidate
and build your network or business which has a great impact in one’s communication. Each
communication type is governed by particular circumstances. Thus it is essential to pay attention
to the interplay of factors surrounding the context of communication which may be physical,
cultural, social and psychological in nature. Communication may then be classified according to:

I. TYPES OF COMMUNICATION ACCORDING TO MODE

A. Non-Verbal Communication- It describes the process of conveying meaning in the form of
non-word messages. Some forms of non-verbal communication include proxemics,
chronemics, paralanguage, and kinesics, haptics, sign language and chromatics
communication. Non verbal communication encompasses all communication occurs without
the use of words. It exists in many types that can aid you in communicating in the following:

1. PROXEMICS
This is the study of our need for space or distance and how we relate to the space
we have. It explains why American executives typically require spacious offices and why
Chinese executives do not. China is very densely populated, so Chinese people are used to
living in closer quarters with other people, having less space available as they go through
their days while the US is pretty spacious and tend to leave more space.

THERE ARE FOUR CATEGORIES FOR SPATIAL INTERACTION

Intimate space: for embracing, comforting and 6-18 inches

whispering
Personal space: for conversations at arm’s length 1.5 to 4 ft
 among good friends

Social space: for impersonal (casual) conversations 4-12 ft

among acquaintances
Public space: used for public speaking 12 ft or
more

2. CHRONEMICS
It is from the name CHRONOS, (a Greek Titan) it is a form of non verbal
communication that deals with the study of how we use and time. Time perceptions include
punctuality, willingness to wait and interactions. The use of time can affect lifestyles, daily
agendas, speed of speech, movements and how long people are willing to listen.
It refers to how we manage our time, our actions and our reaction on the use of time
by others.
Examples:
Formal time – is attributing to the categories used to divine time to seconds, minutes,
hours, days, months and years.
Informal Time- refers to the everyday expressions such as “till we meet again”, “see you
soon”, “catch you later”, “as soon as possible”

3. PARALANGUAGE/PARALINGUISTICS- The term para language is combination of two

words “para” means like and “language” means mode of communication. Thus para lan-
guage literally means “like language”. It is another type of nonverbal communication that
emphasizes body language and voice nuances as means of expressing thoughts and feel -
ings. The tone of the voice, the intonation, the pitch, the volume (loudness and softness of
the voice) and even the inflection used are the factors that are to be considered in this non-
verbal signal and that give dimensions and meanings to the word uttered.
CLUES OF PARALANGUAGE
 Volume- loudness or softness of the voice
 Speed of Voice- the pace which something is spoken
 Intonation- rise and fall in voice
 Tone of voice- feeling added while speaking
 Pronunciation- the manner in which a word is uttered
 Articulation- clarity of the voice
 Pause- a break taken while speaking
 Pitch- the highness or lowness of vocal tone

SOME ADVANTAGES OF PARALANGUAGE

 Speedy transmission
 Immediate feedback
 Strong/ better relations
 Psychological satisfaction
 Time saving
 Effective tool of persuasion and group communication

4. KINESICS
This word comes from the root work kinesis, which means “movement”, and
refers to the study of hand, arm, body and face movements. There are types of kinesics
as follows:
1. Gestures -These are movements with some parts of the body such as the head, shoul-
ders and arms to convey meaning and emphasis. There are three types of gestures
 identified by Peter A. Andersen (1999) Nonverbal Communication: Forms and Func-
tions:
a. Adaptors are touching movements and behaviors that indicate internal state typically
related arousal or anxiety. These adaptors result from situations where the speaker feels
uneasiness.
Examples:
a. Student’s clicking of the pen while listening during discussion
b. Tossing the hair
c. scratching the head
d. pinching own nose

b. Emblems are gestures that are conventional and have meanings on their own. These
gestures involve the movements of the hands and arms so extensively that the listeners easily
recognize the gestures at once as they see it.
Examples:
a. Thumbs-up which sign generally mean “okay” for most people. But for American
people, a thumbs-up finger may mean that person wants to hitchhike.
b. Circling of the index finger around the side of the head means crazy.

c. Illustrators are the most common type of gestures. These are less conventional and are
more individualized gestures that are employed when speaker is describing something like
the size, shape, height and curves.
Examples:
a. When you give someone directions, you use illustrators to facilitate your task.
b. When the speaker use of his hand to make his audience imagine the size of the
watermelon he saw.

2. Body Language
This form of non-verbal communication refers to the body movement of the body that
communicates unintended messages. The way you gesture, the way you stand or sit, the
way you walk and the amount of eye contact you maintain with people reveal a great deal
about you.
Body Language Interpretation
Open palm Openness
Tilted head Interest
Standing with hands on hips Aggression
Arms crossed on chest Defensiveness
Walking with hands in pockets and Dejection
shoulders hunched

5. HAPTICS
It is the study of touching to communicate thoughts and feelings. People may not be
able to notice it, but haptics is used in one’s daily communication with others because it
aids in giving emphasis to what one needs to say.
Examples:
Handshakes, holding hands, kissing (cheeks, forehead and hand), back slapping, a
pat on the shoulder and brushing an arm. A mother’s touch gives her baby a sense of
comfort and security. However, touches means a hundred messages that interpreted
differently which depends on the person’s social norms and cultural background.

6. SIGN LANGUAGE
It includes all forms of codification where words and punctuation signs have been
supplemented by gestures. It uses gestures to replace words. By pointing, nodding the
head or moving the body in different ways, a person can communicate meaning.
 There are three major forms of Sign Language as follows:

a. American Sign Language (ASL)

b. Pidgin Signed English (PSE) or Signed English
c. Signing Exact English (SEE)

7. CHROMATICS
It refers to the communication of messages thru colors. In interpreting messages using
this nonverbal method, it is important to consider culture because one color may mean
different in one country compared to another.
Examples:
Black is a color of mourning. Anyone seen wearing black is understood to be in grief.
Countries like in the Philippines and even US observe this practice. In India, it is white that
people wear to show they are grieving and the Japanese worn during funerals. Nowadays,
black is not only worn for a purpose. Men and women wear black for formal gatherings.
Traditionally, Filipino brides wear white gowns in their wedding that signifies purity and
cleanliness.
Hindu brides wear red, while Christian brides wear white for their wedding.
Purple sometimes associated with royalty, but it is the color of death in Mexico and
Brazil.

B. Verbal Communication- It refers to the use of sounds and language to relay a message. It
serves as a vehicle for expressing desires, ideas and concepts and is vital to the processes
of learning and teaching. The main function is relaying a message to one or more
recipients. It encompasses everything from simple one-syllable sounds to complex
discussions and relies on both language and emotion to produce the desired effect. Verbal
communication can be used to inform, inquire, argue and discuss topics of all kinds that
help to clarify misunderstanding, provide missing information and stimulate thoughts and
creativity. It is vital to teaching and learning, as well as forming bonds and building
relationships with other people. 

There are some steps you can take to develop your verbal communication skills:
 Use a strong, confident speaking voice (speak to be heard). When presenting informa-
tion to a few or a group of people, be sure to use a strong voice or full voice so that every -
one can easily hear you. Be confident when speaking so that your ideas are clear, accurate
and easy to understand.
 Use active listening. The other side of using verbal communication is intently listening to
and hearing others. Active listening skills are key when conducting a meeting, presentation
or even participating in a one-on-one conversation. Doing so will help you grow as compe -
tent communicator.
 Avoid filler words. It can be tempting, especially during a presentation, to use filler words
such as “um”, “like”, “so” or “yeah”. While it might feel natural after completing a sentence or
pausing to collect your thoughts, it can also be distracting for your audience. Try presenting
to a trusted friend or colleague who can call attention to the times you use filler words. Try
to replace them by taking a breath when you are tempted to use them.

C. Visual Communication- This type of communication focuses on visuals to convey

information. Some examples are signs, symbols, imagery, maps, graphs, charts, diagrams,
pictograms, photos, drawings or illustrations and even various forms of electronic
communication. Some examples of electronic communication symbol or images are the
emojis, emoticons, and animations among others to convey the writer’s emotions or clarify
the intent of the message sender. These are achieved through digital mode or text.

There are paramount components of visual communication to create powerful and

compelling visual content for the audience:
 a. Color. Being the most essential elements of visual communication, the primary functions of
colors is to decorate, emphasize or categorize a design. Colors have a deep connection
with human emotions and experiences, they create an optical effect on us, to put simply,
they communicate optically and emotionally.
b. Position. Effective use of positioning helps establish the relationship between images and
graphic elements and signifies their degree of importance. Visual communicators typically
place the most important elements in a prominent position of a page, with other elements
serving support and complementary roles. The positioning also helps direct the viewer to
the different sections of a page, allowing them to follow a narrative or flow of information in
the proper sequence.
c. Texture. It is the surface of an object or an image and can be actual or implied. It can com -
municate a lot more information than most people would think. When used in infographic
images, rough textures can suggest an either and more rustic feel, while a smooth texture
can give inspire a feeling of comfort. The presence of texture in a graphical presentation
displays a more human and friendly feels to an image.
d. Size. It can establish the degree of importance of visual elements. The strategic use of size
can be especially effective with infographics, where larger elements command more atten-
tion than smaller elements.
e. Orientation. It refers to the position or direction of a visual element that could prevent con-
fusion and make it easier for viewers to understand the message of a graphic.
f. Alignment and Balance. It can result in a more comforting image and suggest stability and
security. But asymmetry can also be a useful visual
g. approach; giving a design a more casual and vibrant feel.

II. TYPES OF COMMUNICATION ACCORDING TO CONTEXT

Context in communication is referred to as a composite of people interacting with
each other. Communication may also be classified according to context:
1. Intrapersonal- The word 'intra' denotes 'within'. When we communicate within ourselves, it
is intrapersonal communication. Intrapersonal communication is a kind of internal dialogue
that takes place within an individual while contemplating, conceptualizing and formulating
our thoughts or ideas before we actually express them.

Three Aspects of Intrapersonal Communication

a. Self-concept is the basis of intrapersonal communication, because it determines
how a persona sees him/her and is oriented towards others. ( focuses internally)
b. Perception focuses on look outward. Perception of the outside world also rooted in
beliefs, values and attitudes. It is closely intertwined with self-concept that one
feeds off the other, creating a harmonious understanding of both oneself and one’s
world.
c. Expectations are future-oriented messages dealing with long-term roles, some-
times called life scripts. These are projections of learned relationships within the
family or society.

Levels of Intrapersonal Communication

a. Internal Discourse involves thinking, concentration and analysis. Psychologists include

both daydreaming and nocturnal dreaming. Another examples are personal prayer, contem -
plation and meditation.
b. Solo Vocal Communication includes speaking aloud to oneself. This may be done to clar-
ify thinking, to rehearse a message intended for others or simply to let off steam. For ex-
ample, talking to yourself as you complain about your friend.
c. Solo Written Communication deals with writing not intended for others. For example, an
entry in a diary or personal journal.
B. Interpersonal Communication- It is the second communication as context and commonly
called Dyadic Communication- is communication that involves two or more persons who share the
roles of sender and receiver. It is interacting with other person. The dyadic communication- is a
form of interpersonal communication that is characterized by face to face situation/ on one –one-
one basis. Both the speaker and the listener are required to exchange ideas about a common
topic which interest them. It provides basic unit for studying and understanding.

TYPES OF DYADIC COMMUNICATION

1. Conversation- it is a type of dyadic communication which is an informal talk between individu-

als. Its nature is less purposive, slight serious and intimate. This is a form of social enter -
tainment as worthwhile, informal, flexible, relaxing and interesting.
2. Dialogue- it gives clear meaning to the two parties involved in spite of some problems/ misun-
derstanding. Through dialogue, the most intimate and personal relationship is formed. The
truth itself of the speaker is entrusted to one another with confidence.
3. Interview- it requires question and answer (face–to-face). Since this is intentional and purpo-
sive, an accomplishment is always expected.

C.EXTENDED COMMUNICATION

Extended communication involves the use of electronic media. Unlike before when it only
called for the use of television and radio, nowadays, the description of extended communication
may be expanded as to include audio or phone conferencing; video-conferencing; skype calls; and
other technological means. For example, linked by telecommunication system, people who are far
apart, or are far from the venue, can participate in a meeting or a conference. In an e-conference,
participants may not be physically present but are still able to track down the lectures and
participate actively because of the mass articulation and dissemination of information, allowing
speakers to reach a wider group of listeners. Extended communication is a public in nature that
speakers are expected to be prepared when they speak making their language more formal.

D. Organizational Communication
With this type, the focus is on the role of communication that plays in organizational
contexts. Organization comprises individuals who work for the company or agencies. Every
organization has expectation that should meet or establish. Set a rules or standards for
communication protocol that should be made clear so that interaction patterns are well-
established. On the part of an individual, he/she should be equipped with the needed oral
and written communication skills that the organization expects you to possess.

There are two types of organizational structure:

1. The Informal structure is the casual and unofficial form of communication wherein the in-
formation is exchanged spontaneously between two or more persons without conforming
the prescribed official rules, process, formalities and chain of command.
2. The Formal structure allows communication to take place via designated channels of
message flow between positions in the organization. This may make use of four ap-
proaches:
a. Downward- It is the type that flows from upper to lower positions. The flow of communica-
tion is top-down. Example: president to a manager or supervisor, a manager to staff.
b. Upward- is bottom-up in which subordinates send communication to their supervisors bear-
ing their feedback on organizational policies, issues related to jobs.
c. Horizontal- is lateral in approach as it takes place among people belonging to the same
level but coming from different departments or units to facilitate performance of tasks
through proper coordination.
d. Crosswise- It is a diagonal in nature as employees from different units or depart-
ments working at various levels of communication.
 III. TYPES OF COMMUNICATION ACCORDING TO PURPOSE AND STYLE
This is focus on communication setting and mode of delivery which the formal and informal.

1. Formal Communication- In formal communication, certain rules, conventions and princi-

ples are followed while communicating message. Formal communication occurs in formal
and official style. Usually professional settings, corporate meetings, conferences under-
goes in formal pattern. Use of slang and foul language is avoided and correct pronuncia -
tion is required. Authority lines are needed to be followed in formal communication.

2. Informal Communication- Informal communication is done using channels that are in

contrast with formal communication channels and does not employ formal language. It is
just a casual talk. It is established for societal affiliations of members in an organization
and face-to-face discussions, everyday talks, phone calls and personal notes. It happens
among friends and family. In informal communication use of slang words, foul language is
not restricted.

Assessment:
A. Check your understanding of the input by answering the following questions:

1. Why do we need to study communication?

2. What are the advantages of communication in terms of:
a. Culture
b. Language
3. How do you differentiate the types of communication in relation to communication
mode?
4. How can visual communication enhance the message conveyed by a speaker? Cite a
particular situation when it is best to employ visual communication.
5. What are the types of communication in relation to context? How do they differ from one
another?
6. Research 10 different meanings of colors according to how different cultures/ countries
interpret such colors.

B. Classify the following communication activities according to the level of

communication each rightfully belongs to:

1. Casual conversation between two friends

2. Presiding at a committee meeting
3. Writing a court decision
4. Concentrating on the lesson read
5. Listening attentively to a speaker
6. Delivering a commencement address
7. Radio Broadcasting
8. Asking a question at a committee meeting
9. Delivering a state –of-the-nation address
10. Explaining an issue in class
C. Check your comprehension by answering the following guide questions.
1. How do you differentiate the types of communication in relation to communication mode?
2. How can visual communication enhance the message conveyed by a speaker? Cite a spe-
cific situation when it is best to employ visual communication?
3. What are the types of communication in relation to context? How do they differ from one an -
other?
4. How can you listen to speakers’ opinion through electronic media without being swayed into
accepting their opinions?
5. Would you know any strategy or method by which you can reduce the complexity of under -
standing another culture? Do you think it will work with your current set of classmates or
friends?