Unit 1: Defining Communication
This unit will provide you with the basics for understanding what communication is and how you can effectively use the study of Communication in your life.
Completing this unit should take you approximately 1 hour.
- Please read Chapter 1 for an introduction to the study of communication: the exchange of information or meaning between individuals. While reading, please pay close attention to the definition of communication, the linear model of communication, and the transactional approach to communication. These models are the foundation for human communication and the remainder of this course. After reading the chapter, complete the discussion questions and write definitions for the key terms listedat the end of the chapter. These assignments will help prepare you for the final course exam.
Watch this brief video lecture about the most common elements of human communication. The presenter highlights basic features of verbal and written communication processes. These features include verbal and non-verbal cues; the importance of listening and feedback; and the effectiveness of verbal communication and written communication. These are the essential building blocks of human communication in general, and will be addressed in more detail in other units of this course.
This brief video provides a definition of communication and an overview of how communication is part of our daily lives. The presenter also reminds us that communication is studied by a number of other science and humanities disciplines. It is the core of the human experience. The communication pyramid is one model for identifying the importance of communication in society today.