Module One (Lesson 2) Types, Uses and Purposes of Communication

Summary

In this lesson on English communication skills, Dr. Aluya explores five types of communication: intrapersonal, interpersonal, small group, public, and mass communication. Each type is defined by unique features, such as the level of interaction and feedback. The lesson emphasizes the various uses of communication, including entertainment, education, and relationship building, as well as its purposes, like survival and coordination. Through engaging examples and a practice quiz, learners are encouraged to apply these concepts to enhance their communication effectiveness.

Takeaways

• 😀 Intrapersonal communication occurs within an individual, involving self-dialogue.
• 😀 Interpersonal communication involves two individuals and includes immediate feedback.
• 😀 Small group communication is structured and often involves a leader coordinating the group's efforts.
• 😀 Public communication is aimed at large audiences and requires understanding the audience for effective delivery.
• 😀 Mass communication utilizes technology to reach vast audiences, often resulting in limited feedback.
• 😀 Communication serves various purposes, including entertainment, warning, instruction, deliberation, education, and persuasion.
• 😀 Effective communication is essential for survival and accessing basic necessities.
• 😀 Establishing and maintaining relationships relies heavily on communication.
• 😀 Communication aids in coordinating activities and governance in society.
• 😀 Understanding the differences between types of communication helps in applying the appropriate methods in various contexts.

Q & A

What is intrapersonal communication?

Intrapersonal communication occurs within a communicator, involving a single individual who serves as both the sender and receiver of the message.

What are the key features of interpersonal communication?

Interpersonal communication involves two speakers, with all elements of the communication process actively engaged, immediate feedback, and overlapping roles between speaker and listener.

How does small group communication differ from interpersonal communication?

Small group communication involves a structured setting with defined roles and a leader coordinating the process, while interpersonal communication is typically more informal and between two people.

What are some examples of public communication?

Examples of public communication include public speeches, lectures, and presentations that address a large audience.

What role does technology play in mass communication?

Mass communication utilizes technology-mediated channels, such as television, radio, and the internet, to transmit messages to a large audience.

What are the primary uses of communication?

Communication is used for entertainment, warning, instruction, deliberation, education, and persuasion.

What purposes does communication serve?

The purposes of communication include ensuring survival, establishing and sustaining relationships, and coordinating human activities.

Why is immediate feedback important in interpersonal communication?

Immediate feedback allows the sender to receive an instantaneous response from the receiver, facilitating a dynamic exchange of ideas.

What makes mass communication feedback limited?

Feedback is limited in mass communication because not every receiver can express their views back to the media outlet.

What is required for effective public communication?

Effective public communication requires the speaker to conduct research about the audience to tailor the message appropriately.