Communication Concepts

Front

Source

Back

The person who imagines, creates and sends the message. Example: A person giving a speech, the writer of a book, an artist creating a painting.

Front

Message

Back

Stimulus or meaning produced by the source for the receiver or audience. Example: Includes not just what the source intends to communicate, but how it is communicated (tone, grammar, organization, headings, formatting, etc.).

Front

Channel

Back

The way in which a message travels between source and receiver. Example: Television, radio, TikTok video, telephone conversation, text message.

Front

Receiver

Back

The person who receives, analyzes, and interprets the message from the source. Example: Just like a receiver on a football team–this is the person who is 'catching' or interpreting the message that is being sent (may also be referred to as 'audience').

Front

Feedback

Back

An intentional or unintentional response to the sender and message. Example: Questions, responses, facial expressions, body language, emojis.

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Environment

Back

The atmosphere, physical and psychological, where you send and receive messages. Example: The room a meeting is taking place in, a classroom, an auditorium, outdoors; may include things like the tables and chairs, lighting, sound equipment, etc.

Front

Context

Back

The setting, scene, and expectations of the individuals involved. Example: Is it expected to use formal or informal language? What type of dress is expected and what does that say about the message being conveyed? How are people expected to behave?

Front

Interference

Back

Also called 'noise', is anything that blocks or changes the source’s intended meaning. Example: Loud sounds or noise, music, thoughts ('psychological noise'), physical distractions.

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Written Communication

Back

The act of writing, typing or printing symbols like letters and numbers to convey information.

Front

Verbal Communication

Back

The use of language to transfer information through speaking or sign language.