1. Communication
Introduction:
Communication is a process whereby information is enclosed in a package and is channelled and imparted by a sender to a receiver via some medium. The receiver then decodes the message and gives the sender a feedback. All forms of communication require a sender, a message, and an intended recipient, however the receiver need not be present or aware of the sender's intent to communicate at the time of communication in order for the act of communication to occur. Communication requires that all parties have an area of communicative commonality. There are verbal means using language and there are nonverbal means, such as body language, sign language, paralanguage, haptic communication, chromatics, and eye contact, through media, i.e., pictures, graphics and sound, and writing.
It is essential that the basic elements of communication be identified. These elements are:
• Sender/encoder/speaker
• Receiver/decoder/listener
• Message
• Medium
• Feedback/reply
Sender/encoder/Speaker:
The person who initiates the communication process is normally referred to as the sender.
2. Receiver/decoder/listener:
The listener receives an encoded message which he attempts to decode.
3. Message:
Message is the encoded idea transmitted by the sender. The formulation of the message is very important for an incorrect patterning can turn the receiver hostile or make him lose interest.
4. Medium:
Another important element of communication is the medium or channel. It could be oral, written, or non-verbal, prior to the composition of the message, the medium/ channel should be decided.
5. Feedback:
This is the most important component of communication. Effective communication takes place only when there is feedback.
2. TYPES OF COMMUNICATION, MEDIA, BARRIERS. Communication of information, messages, opinions, speech and thoughts can be done via different forms of modern communication media, like, e-mail, telephone and