Purposive Communication Lesson 1
Purposive Communication Lesson 1
What is Language?
What exactly is language? Linguists agree that a language can only be called a language if it
has a system of rules (also known as grammar), a sound system (phonology), and a vocabulary
(lexicon). These are the requirements for identifying a means of communication as a language.
A monkey may be able to signal to its partner that it is sharing food. The monkey will
produce sounds and gestures, but will not be able to organize the sounds into a meaningful
system with rules. What the monkey is producing is not a
language in the strictest sense of the word. Human beings, on the
other hand, can communicate their desire to share food through
several ways that are understandable to other human beings. They
may utter a word (Food!), raise a question (Want some food?), or
give a statement (I'd like to share this food with you).
Language is indeed a complex human capacity. It is, therefore, important to be aware of its
features and behavior to be able to use language more effectively and productively in
communicating with others.
What is Communication?
Different contexts can impact one's communication. Each communication type is governed by
a particular circumstance. Thus, it is essential to pay attention to the interplay of factors
surrounding the context of communication which may be physical, cultural, social, and
psychological in nature. Communication may then be classified according to: (1)
communication mode, (2) context, and (3) purpose and style.
Types of Communication
According to Mode
A message may be conveyed via these types: verbal- non-
verbal and visual. Though communication is often
thought of as verbal, the non-verbal mode is equally
essential as it enhances one's message.
Verbal Communication
The effectiveness of verbal communication depends on the tone of the speaker, clarity of
speech, volume, speed, body language and the quality of words used in the conversation. In
the case of the verbal communication, the feedback is immediate since there are a
simultaneous transmission and receipt of the message by the sender and receiver
respectively.
The sender must keep his speech tone high and clearly audible to all
and must design the subject matter keeping the target audience in
mind. The sender should always cross-check with the receiver to
ensure that the message is understood in absolutely the same way as
it was intended. Such communication is more prone to errors as
sometimes the words are not sufficient to express the feelings and
emotions of a person.
Non-verbal Communication
The Non-Verbal Communication is the process of conveying meaning without the use of
words either written or spoken. In other words, any communication made between two or
more persons through the use of facial expressions, hand movements, body language,
postures, and gestures is called as non-verbal communication.
The Non-Verbal Communication, unlike the verbal communication, helps in establishing and
maintaining the interpersonal relationships while the verbal only help in communicating the
external events. People use non-verbal to express emotions and interpersonal attitudes,
conduct rituals such as greetings and bring forward one’s personality.
The non-verbal communication in the form of signals, expressions add meaning over the
verbal and help people to communicate more efficiently. It supplements whatever is said in
words, such as people nod to acknowledge and move their hands to give directions.
The non-verbal communication defines the distance between the communicators and helps
them to exchange their emotional state of mind. Also, it regulates the flow of communication,
for example, an individual can give signals to convey that he had finished speaking or else he
wants to speak.
Visual Communication
How these symbols are interpreted is very crucial in visual communication. There are some
instances when visual communication is classified under non-verbal communication.
Whatever the classification is, note that this type has now become pervasive in
communication. It is then important that the receiver of the message is able to decode the
meaning correctly by contextualizing the information received.
Intrapersonal Communication
Speaker A: I see. Well, she's really like that. Ever since we were kids, she has always
been a very quiet person.
2. Speaker A: Excuse me. Would you know how to get nearest mall?
Speaker B: Yes. In fact, you may go there on foot or simply take a Jeepney. If you walk,
it will take you about 20 minutes to get there. You can just take the exit gate near the
hospital then turn left and walk straight ahead. You won't miss it because of the big
sign. Jeepneys take the same route and it
should not take you more than 10 minutes
even with the traffic.
Could you tell which is interpersonal and which is transactional in the two situations
above? Explain the objective, the language, and the nature of the conversation.
Extended Communication
With extended communication, your own thinking, behavior, and attitude may be influenced
by other people and you may be persuaded to take the views you hear. It is important then
that you weigh what you hear and assess them against those beliefs that you hold onto so you
do not get easily swayed by other people's convictions.
Organizational Communication
There are two types of organizational structure: (1) formal and (2) informal. Formal structure
allows communication to take place via designated channels of message flow between
positions in the organization. Informal communication, on the other hand, comes from
unofficial channels of message flow. Also known as grapevine, messages coming from the
different levels of the organization is transmitted. This occurs due to the dissatisfaction of
some employees accompanied by uncertainty, such as superiors playing favorites and
unfavorable or unacceptable company rules and regulations. Each organization has its own
culture.
Organizational culture is of utmost significance since it will dictate the kind of behavior that
employees should possess as well as the extent of commitment expected from them by the
organization. They all share in the values, practices, vision, and mission of the organization.
Peter Drucker's famous quote, "Company cultures are like country cultures. Never try to
change one. Try instead, to work, with what you've got,”
underscores the view that indeed, culture is within the
control of the entrepreneur or company owner. If at the
outset, you think you cannot adapt to the organization's
culture, better look for another job or workplace where you
will be happy with your superiors and colleagues.
Intercultural Communication
Finally, Communication may be classified according and style. Earlier, formal purpose and
informal communication discussed have been in relation to organization communication.
Similarly, the types of communication in relation to purpose and style are formal and
informal Formal communication employs formal language delivered orally or in written
form. Lectures, public talks/speeches, research and project proposals, reports, and business
letters, among others are all considered formal
situations and writings. Note that while lectures and
speeches are delivered orally, the texts have been
thought out carefully and written well before they are
delivered. To inform, to entertain, and to persuade are
the main objectives of this type of communication.
-the end-