Communication
Communication is defined as the method by which information is transferred from one person or entity to another. It is basically the interaction, which is sign-mediated, between two entities or more, through various processes. Communication is a method by which people express and interchange their thoughts, feelings and opinions by speaking, writing or simply by showing signs.
Generally, communication is a two-way process where ideas, thoughts and feelings are expressed and interchanged. This is usually mutually accepted by both parties. However, communication can also be one-way and sometimes, the views of one person is not agreed upon by the other person.
The process of communication requires three basic components, a sender, a message and a receiver. The sender sends the message through a specific medium, thereafter, the receiver decodes the message. Once this is done, a feedback is sent to the sender confirming that the initial message was received by the receiver and if necessary, to pass on any other information.
Without feedback, the process of communication is incomplete. Communication can be done verbally, non-verbally and by writing. Verbal communication includes speech, song, discussion and anything that is understandable and audible. Non-verbal communication includes body language, eye contact, sign language, touch and paralanguage.
Types of Communication:
The real meaning of a particular message when performed verbally is shown by the body language, tone of the voice and the choice of words used. When a speaker is speaking, most of what the speaker wants to communicate can be understood by the person’s body language, symbols and gestures and voice sounds such as intonation and pitch.
Written communication is usually conveyed through letters, articles, memos, pamphlets, notices, emails, text messages, newspapers, magazines, book and other such mediums.
Verbal communication is usually conveyed through speeches, discussions, debates, presentations, and other similar forms. Singing a song or reciting a poem is also a form of verbal communication. Tone of voice, rhythm, speaking style and intonation are factors that affect verbal communication.
Non-verbal communication is usually conveyed through gestures, signs and the overall body language. Facial expression involves eye contact, and other expressions shown on the face. Recently, the type of clothing, hairstyle, makeup and even jewellery are significant in communicating opinions and thoughts.
Non-verbal communication can be divided into four categories that include physical, aesthetic, signs and symbolic communication. Visual communication involves visual aid, including typography, graphic design, signs, drawing and illustration. Videos or anything shown on television is a form of visual communication.