1.1 What is communication?

Defining communication

• Give a definition about what is communication is not an easy task.

Defining communication

The term communication has

come to encompass so many different activities , from

intimately whispered dialogues between lovers, to juggling

multiple simultaneous Instant Messenger text

exchanges.

All communication involves signs and codes.

Signs are artefacts or acts that refer to something other than themselves; that is, they are signifying constructs.

Codes are the systems into which signs are organized and which determine how signs may be related to each other.

These signs and codes are transmitted or made available to

other: and transmitting or receiving signs/codes/

communication is the practice of social

relationships.

Assuming that communication is central to the life of all

cultures, a general definition of communication as ‘social

interaction through messages’.

Models of communication

A model is simplified description of a

communication process, usually set out in graphic form as a diagram. It can show the elements of a

communication process and the relationships between

those elements.

Activity Time!

Investigate a model of communication and do a

diagram or draw (you can scan it).

Answer the questions on the Assessments section of the

website.

Due date on August 10, 2011.

Sources:

Fiske, J. (1990) Introduction to communication studies. Second Edition USA: Taylor & Francis Group

Dimbleby, R. & Burton, G (1998) More than words: An introduction to Communication. Third Edition USA: Routledge