Communication: Definitions, Nature, Principles, Process & Types

A. Definition of Communication

Communication is the process of sharing meaning between people through symbols such as words, gestures, signs, and media.

Example:
A teacher explains a concept and students respond with questions.

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B. Nature of Communication (with Examples)

1️⃣ Communication is a Process
It is continuous and ongoing.
Example: Teaching involves explanation, response, correction, and re-explanation.

2️⃣ Communication is Two-Way
Feedback is essential.
Example: A nod or question shows understanding.

3️⃣ Communication is Purposeful
Every message has an intention.
Example: Instructions aim to guide action.

4️⃣ Communication is Contextual
Meaning depends on situation and culture.
Example: Silence may mean respect or disagreement.

5️⃣ Communication is Dynamic
It changes with people and environment.
Example: Formal language in meetings, informal with friends.

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C. Process of Communication (with Example)

Sender → Message → Encoding → Channel → Receiver → Decoding → Feedback → Noise

1️⃣ Sender – Originator of the message
Example: Teacher

2️⃣ Message – Idea or information
Example: Lesson content

3️⃣ Encoding – Converting ideas into words/gestures
Example: Simple language, diagrams

4️⃣ Channel – Medium used
Example: Speech, board, WhatsApp

5️⃣ Receiver – Person who receives the message
Example: Students

6️⃣ Decoding – Interpreting the message
Example: Understanding based on knowledge

7️⃣ Feedback – Receiver’s response
Example: Questions, facial expressions

8️⃣ Noise – Any disturbance
Example: Poor internet, noise, mental distraction

Teacher (sender) explains a lesson (message) using speech (channel).
Students understand (decoding) and ask questions (feedback).
Classroom noise acts as disturbance (noise).

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D. Principles of Communication (with Examples)

1️⃣ Clarity – Message should be clear
Example: Simple language for complex ideas.

2️⃣ Completeness – All necessary information
Example: Giving date, time, and place together.

3️⃣ Feedback – Ensures understanding
Example: Asking “Is it clear?”

4️⃣ Appropriateness – Suit context and audience
Example: Polite tone with seniors.

5️⃣ Consistency – Verbal and non-verbal match
Example: Encouraging words with a smile.

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E. Types of Communication (with Examples)

1️⃣ Intrapersonal Communication – Within oneself
Example: Self-talk before an exam.

2️⃣ Interpersonal Communication – Between two people
Example: Teacher-student interaction.

3️⃣ Group Communication – Among a small group
Example: Team discussion.

4️⃣ Public Communication – One to many
Example: Lecture or speech.

5️⃣ Mass Communication – Large audience via media
Example: Television news.

6️⃣ Computer-Mediated Communication – Digital platforms
Example: WhatsApp, Facebook, emails.

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🌟 One-Line Summary

Communication is a purposeful, dynamic process guided by principles and expressed through multiple types to create shared understanding.