CLASSROOM COMMUNICATION

Topic Learning Outcomes:

By the end of this topic, you should be able to:
i) Define classroom communication
ii) Explain the elements of communication
iii) Illustrate the model of communication
iv) Explain types of communication in the classroom
v) Explain classroom techniques of getting feedback
vi) Explain benefits of effective communication
vii) Explain communication barriers
viii) Strategies for Effective Communication in the Classroom

 Communication is a complex and dynamic process that involves several elements. At its
core, effective communication requires a clear message from the sender and the ability of
the receiver to decode it accurately. The key elements include verbal communication and
nonverbal communication, with aspects like body language, tone of voice, and eye
contact playing vital roles.
 For instance, a communicator might use specific gestures or facial expressions to enhance
the message, ensuring the receiver understands the intended meaning. In a face-to-face
scenario, making eye contact can significantly improve the interaction.
Elements of the communication process
The communication process is a complex interaction that involves several key elements.
Understanding these elements can enhance communication in various contexts, whether
personal, professional, or social. Here are the primary elements of the communication process:

The Model of Communication

1. Sender:
Within human interaction, the sender plays a crucial role as the individual or group who initiates
the communication. This person or group must carefully craft their message, considering how it
will be received by the audience. This crafting process, known as encoding, involves converting
thoughts and ideas into a communicable form—be it spoken words, written texts, or non-verbal
communication.
For instance, during a public speaking event, the speaker must consider their audience and tailor
their message to communicate their ideas effectively. The model of communication can be seen
as a transactional process, where both the sender and receiver are actively involved, dynamically
exchanging information.
2. Message:
The message is the information, idea, or feeling that the sender wants to communicate, and it is
conveyed through various forms, such as spoken or written words, gestures, and body language.
Effective communication is always a two-way street, where the receiver may play an active
role. Active listening is crucial, as it allows the receiver to engage with the message and
understand it fully.
N.B:
o The message is the information to be passed by the source
o In the classroom situation the message is the subject matter to be taught must have
the following features.
o Type of communication:
 Verbal Channel: This refers to communication through the spoken word.
 Audio Medium: voice (when face to face-telephone, radio etc. is
used.
 The teacher should use:
o simple clear language,
o appropriate voice projection,
o appropriate pronunciation,
o have eye contact with learners and
o Be courteous.
 Non- verbal communication: Channel: body language.
o NB: Non-verbal communication is a form/type of
communication that does not involve any uttering of words.
Non-verbal communication involves gestures and body
language. Examples include: Nodding the head, also shaking
the head, facial expression, raising the fist and raising the
thumb The teacher must use appropriate gestures and body
language and should avoid non-verbal communication that can
be hurting to the learners
 Written communication:
o Type of communication: written Channel: written words
(visual channel- what can be seen) medium: chalkboard, chart,
power point.
o This type of communication includes everything in print such
as books, manuals, hand-outs etc.
 o In classroom situation teachers often use chalkboard, charts or
power point.
o NB: symbols used in any written communication:
 Must be clearly explained.
 Any abbreviations and acronyms used must be first
written and fully used.
 What is written on chalkboard:-must be legible and
must be well written out
o Visual and audio-visual communication:
o Channel: visual Medium: Models, pictures, photographs, cut
outs. Audio visual communication on the other hand involves
the use of media that focuses on both the sense of hearing and
sense of sight. Channel: Audio- visual (AV) Medium: TV
sound film, videos.
o In classroom situation, visual communication focuses on the
use of models, pictures, photographs, posters etc.
o Thus, the channel of communication is visual and the media
are the items for use.
3. Encoding:
Encoding refers to the process by which the sender transforms their internal feelings into a
communicable format. This involves selecting the right words, tone, and non-verbal cues to
ensure clarity. For instance, in a public speaking situation, the speaker must give a speech that
resonates with the audience, choosing between terms like “pop,” “soda,” or “coke” based on
regional preferences.
4. Channel:
The channel refers to the medium through which the message is transmitted. This can include
face-to-face conversation, telephone calls, emails, text messages, social media, and more. The
choice of channel can significantly impact the reception of the message.
5. Receiver:
The receiver plays a crucial role in the communication process, as they are the individual or
group for whom the message is intended. When a message is received, decoding occurs, which is
heavily influenced by the receiver's experiences and perceptions. This communication process
involves various interconnected elements, where the encoding and decoding of the message must
align for the message to be understood properly.
6. Decoding:
Decoding the message is a critical aspect of human interaction that plays a vital role in the
communication process. This involves the receiver interpreting the sender's message accurately,
which is essential for communicating effectively. The receiver must possess a sound
understanding of the language used, the context in which the message is delivered, and the subtle
nuances that may alter its meaning.
7. Feedback:
Feedback is the response from the receiver back to the sender. It can be verbal or non-verbal and
indicates whether the message was understood as intended. Feedback is crucial as it helps the
sender gauge the effectiveness of their communication.
8. Context:
The context encompasses the environment in which the communication takes place, including
the physical location, cultural background, and situational factors. Context can influence how
messages are interpreted and understood.
9. Noise:
 Noise refers to any external or internal interference that can distort or disrupt the
communication process.
 This can include;
o Physical noise (like background sounds), psychological noise (like preconceived
notions or stress), or
o Semantic noise (misunderstandings due to ambiguous language).
o Technological noise can also play a significant role in communication,
particularly in our increasingly digital world. This includes issues like poor
internet connections, software glitches, or technical jargon that may confuse
rather than clarify.
Types of Classroom Communication
Communication within the classroom is important in order for students to learn effectively and
should be put in place from an early stage of learning. Classroom communication exists in three
categories: verbal, nonverbal, and written.
 Verbal communication refers to sending or receiving a message through sounds and
languages. Teachers can address one student or the whole classroom through verbal
communication. For example, a teacher may ask a student to stand up which is verbal
communication.
o Examples include;
 Teacher lectures
 Class discussions
 Student presentations
 Answering questions
 Non-verbal communication refers to communicating without words through body
language, gestures, facial expressions, the tone and pitch of the voice, and posture. For
example, if a teacher is nodding their head while a student is speaking, this can be
encouraging or show that they agree with the student.
o Examples include;
 Eye contact
 Gestures
 Facial expressions
  Posture
 Tone of voice
 Written communication is sending or receiving information through writing. For
example, a teacher may arrange a written assignment for students to test their knowledge
or present lecture slides or notes for complicated information.
o Examples include;
 Hand-outs
 Assignments
 Notes on the board
 Feedback on work
Techniques for getting feedback in your classroom:
 Seek feedback from your students to judge your pacing and frame your instruction to
meet their needs.
 To accomplish this, a teacher should:
o Observe the students body language.
 Are they looking at you or are they gazing out the window?
 Are they taking notes,
 Raising their hands and nodding along?
 Do you see yawns, shuffling chairs, students whispering or glazed looks?
o Use questions to find out what your students know and understand.
o Encourage students to ask questions to discover their areas of interest and
confusion.
o Pose questions for students to answer that get them to test their own knowledge.
o Ask students to complete a brief online survey before or after class to find out
what questions they have after a reading, assignment or lecture.
o Prompt students to write a response to an open question during a class to give
them the opportunity to organize their own thoughts and provide you with a quick
diagnostic of how they are doing.
Benefits of effective classroom communication:
Education is a two-way process. It depends on the active participation of a teacher and a
student. Both student and teacher are responsible for the active learning process. It is the duty
of the teacher to take charge of the classroom and deal with every student in a polite and kind
way.
i. The importance of effective communication relies on the fact that it reduces
misunderstandings or the possibility of overlooking important information. This
ultimately saves time as situations can be assessed accurately and can also save you from
potential embarrassment from assuming things that are incorrect!
ii. Effective communication creates a non-threatening environment where a diverse group of
people can share their thoughts, feelings, and ideas; feel respected and understood so that
they can work together to solve conflicts and make decisions.
iii. Effective communication is important because it allows the people involved to build trust
and reduces any negative emotions that can get in the way clear of thinking.
 iv. Improving your effective communication skills will also increase your self-esteem: it
feels great when you are able to deliver your message confidently, watch your audience
embrace it and receive the outcome you had hoped for.
v. Improves your relationships with others. When mastered, these skills allow you to
communicate even difficult messages without creating conflict or destroying trust.

In a nutshell, 10 benefits of a good student-teacher communication include;

1. Smooth learning: Smooth learning requires good communication between students and
teachers. If there is good communication, then students can easily share their issues
with their teachers. Good communication enhances smooth learning.
2. Mutual respect: A good student-teacher communication ensures mutual respect in
students and teachers. Both students and teachers understand each other and respect
their opinions and views. This is the fundamental feature of a student teacher
relationship.
3. Students become good at expression: Good student-teacher communication helps
students in becoming more expressive and communicative. Fear hinders the smooth
process of learning, and friendly behavior motivates students to participate in classroom
activities and ask questions. Students become good communicators in school and in
society as well.
4. Enhances interest in studies: When a teacher treats students politely and takes care of
each student irrespective of their caste and creed, students also respect their teacher and
take an interest in the classroom. A student listens to lectures carefully and pays
attention to the details of the concept discussed in the classroom.
5. Students respect elders: A good student-teacher communication brings ethics to
students; they regard their elders. Civility is the main purpose of education. If a teacher
treats his/her students with respect, the students treat everyone with care and respect.
Teachers influence their students.
6. Teachers also feel sense of accomplishment: A teacher also feels competent and
confident if the students perform well on exams and quizzes. The teacher feels
appreciated and works hard for the betterment of students. Good grades are the
students’ feedback for teachers.
7. No mental health issues with students: Students are mentally relaxed when they have
a good communication system with their teachers. Their psychological growth is not
hampered at all. They are optimistic and have a positive attitude towards everything in
their environment.
8. Enhances confidence of students: When the teacher gives positive feedback and
appreciates students, they feel competent and confident. They trust their abilities and
work hard to get good grades. Self-confidence is very essential for studies.
9. Pleasant environment of classroom: When the teacher and students are all optimistic,
then the environment of a classroom is pleasant and calm. Students share their problems
with teachers and teachers help them in a concerned manner. Students learn quickly in a
pleasant and relaxed classroom.
 10. Guidance from Teachers: Good communication encourages students to seek their
teacher’s help if they are having any issue in school or in academics. A good teacher
has always guided students in a positive direction and eased students' issues.

Factors Affecting Classroom Communication

Several factors can affect how communication unfolds in the classroom, impacting the clarity,
efficiency, and overall success of the learning experience. Here are some key factors:
 Teacher-Student Relationship: The rapport between teachers and students can
significantly influence communication. A positive, respectful relationship encourages
open dialogue and makes students more receptive to instruction.
 Classroom Environment: Both the physical setup (such as seating arrangements and
acoustics) and the psychological atmosphere (such as a sense of safety and belonging)
affect communication. An environment that promotes engagement and participation
facilitates better communication.
 Language and Vocabulary: The language used by the teacher and the students,
including the complexity of vocabulary and sentence structure, can either enhance or
hinder understanding. Therefore, it is crucial to ensure that the language is appropriate for
the student’s age and proficiency level.
 Cultural Differences: Cultural backgrounds can influence communication styles,
nonverbal cues, and perceptions. Therefore, effective communication needs to be aware
of and sensitive to cultural diversity in the classroom.
 Teacher’s Communication Skills: Effective classroom communication requires teachers
to convey ideas, listen actively, and adapt their communication style to meet the needs of
their students.
 Student Engagement and Participation: Students’ willingness to participate, ask
questions, and engage in discussions greatly affects the dynamic of classroom
communication. Strategies to enhance engagement are vital.
 Technological Tools and Aids: Educational Technology, from simple audiovisual aids
to sophisticated digital platforms, can greatly enhance communication and understanding
or, if used improperly, hinder it.
 Psychological Barriers: Anxiety, fear of negative evaluation, and lack of confidence can
prevent students from communicating. Teachers need to create a supportive environment
that encourages all students to participate.
 Physical Barriers: Hearing difficulties, speech impairments, and other physical
challenges can affect communication. Accommodations, such as assistive Technology
and adapted materials, can help overcome these barriers.
 Instructional Methods and Materials: The choice of teaching methods (lectures, group
work, and interactive sessions) and materials (textbooks, handouts, multimedia
 presentations) can influence the effectiveness of communication. Varied approaches can
also address students’ diverse learning styles and needs.
 Health-Related Barriers: Chronic health issues and factors like fatigue or poor nutrition
can impact a student’s ability to concentrate and participate in learning
Addressing these factors effectively requires a multifaceted approach, including professional
development for teachers, thoughtful classroom design, and the implementation of inclusive
teaching strategies. Recognizing and adapting to the specific communication needs of a
classroom can lead to a more productive and supportive learning environment.
Learning Barriers in the Classroom
 Learning barriers in the classroom are obstacles that prevent students from fully engaging
with the material and achieving their academic potential.
 These barriers can be diverse, affecting students in different ways depending on their
circumstances, learning styles, and the classroom environment itself.
 Common learning barriers in the classroom include:
Cognitive Barriers: Difficulties with memory, attention, and problem-solving skills can hinder
a student’s ability to absorb and process information effectively.
Physical Barriers: Disabilities or health issues, such as hearing or vision impairments, mobility
challenges, or chronic illnesses, can limit a student’s ability to participate in certain activities or
require specific accommodations.
Emotional and Behavioral Barriers: Anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, and behavioral
disorders can impact motivation, engagement, and the ability to focus in the classroom.
Socioeconomic Barriers: Students from lower socioeconomic backgrounds may face challenges
such as limited access to educational resources, lack of stable housing, or the need to work
outside of school hours, all of which can affect their ability to concentrate on their studies.
Cultural and Linguistic Barriers: Students whose first language is not the language of
instruction or who come from cultural backgrounds significantly different from the school’s
dominant culture may struggle with communication, understanding, and cultural integration.
Semantic barriers: refers to the misunderstanding that arises when individuals interpret
messages differently due to their distinct meanings assigned to words or symbols. The field of
semantics—the study of meaning—plays a role in identifying and overcoming these barriers.
Common Types of Semantic Barriers:
 Denotative Barriers: This occurs when the literal meaning of a word is understood
differently by the sender and receiver. For instance, the word “bark” can refer to a tree’s
outer covering or a dog’s vocalization, leading to potential confusion.
  Connotative Barriers: These arise from the different emotional and cultural associations
that words carry. For example, while “home” might evoke feelings of warmth and
comfort for many, others might associate it with stress or burden.
 Jargon and Technical Language: Specialized terminology, or jargon, can create
barriers when it is unfamiliar to the audience. For instance, terms like “myocardial
infarction” in the medical field may confuse individuals lacking medical training.
 Idioms and Expressions: Expressions that are not universally recognized can lead to
misunderstandings. For example, saying “break a leg” to wish someone luck may confuse
those unfamiliar with this idiom.
 Language and Dialects: Variations in dialects can complicate communication, as
different regions may use the same language yet have distinct words or pronunciations.
For example, British English uses “boot” to refer to what Americans call the “trunk” of a
car.
Recognizing and addressing these semantic barriers are integral to improving the clarity and
effectiveness of communication.
Strategies to Overcome Semantic Barriers
To enhance effective communication, consider employing the following strategies:
Enhancing Language Clarity: Use clear and straightforward language - to avoid jargon or
complex phrases. Where technical terms are necessary, provide precise definitions. For example,
instead of using “synergy,” explain the collaborative efforts involved.
Promoting Cultural Awareness: Understanding cultural differences is vital to avoid
unintentional offenses. Developing a common vocabulary that all parties can grasp helps
minimize misunderstandings. Avoid idioms and slang, particularly with non-native speakers.
Active Listening Techniques: Practice techniques such as paraphrasing to confirm mutual
understanding. Encourage feedback and clarification regularly to reduce chances of
miscommunication. For instance, rephrasing questions or statements ensures the other party’s
interpretation aligns with the intended message.
Educational Background: Gaps in foundational knowledge due to previous educational
experiences can make it difficult for students to keep up with new material.
Motivational Barriers: Students’ motivation to learn can be reduced by a lack of interest in the
subject matter, low self-efficacy beliefs (doubting one’s abilities), and external distractions.
Environmental Barriers: Classroom conditions, such as overcrowding, inadequate facilities,
noise, and poor lighting, can detract from the learning experience.
Teaching Methods: Instructional strategies that do not accommodate diverse learning styles or
fail to engage students can be a significant barrier to learning.
Technology Access: In today’s increasingly digital learning environment, lack of access to
Technology or insufficient digital literacy skills can hinder a student’s ability to participate in
learning activities.

Strategies to Promote Effective Communication:

Key strategies for effective classroom communication:
 Active listening: Pay full attention to students when they speak, paraphrase to confirm
understanding, and build on their ideas.
 Clear and concise language: Use simple language appropriate for the grade level, avoid
jargon, and explain concepts clearly.
 Positive feedback: Regularly provide constructive feedback that encourages students and
highlights their strengths.
 Vary teaching methods: Incorporate diverse teaching approaches like lectures,
discussions, group work, visuals, and hands-on activities to cater to different learning
styles.
 Create a safe environment: Encourage open questions, respect diverse perspectives, and
ensure students feel comfortable sharing their thoughts without fear of judgment.
 Non-verbal communication: Maintain eye contact, use appropriate facial expressions,
and gestures to convey engagement and understanding.
 Addressing students by name: Calling students by name helps build rapport and makes
them feel valued.
 Adapting to different learning styles: Recognize different learning preferences (visual,
auditory, kinesthetic) and tailor instruction accordingly.
Further strategies to consider:
 Open-ended questions: Ask questions that require critical thinking and detailed
responses to facilitate deeper discussion.
 Check for understanding: Regularly ask clarifying questions to ensure students are
grasping concepts.
 Providing clear instructions: Give detailed instructions with specific expectations for
assignments and activities.
 Use of technology: Utilize digital tools like presentations, online platforms, and
interactive boards to enhance learning experiences.
 Addressing student concerns promptly: Be available to answer questions and address
any student issues promptly.
Overcoming Classroom Communication Barriers
Strategies to Promote Effective Communication: Teachers need to adopt various
strategies to overcome these barriers and promote effective communication. These
include creating an inclusive learning environment, using a common language,
Promoting Collaboration, use of visuals, providing feedback and being aware of
nonverbal cues like body language.
Emphasizing Active Learning and Student Engagement: Encouraging active learning
and ensuring student engagement are vital for effective classroom communication.
Teachers should foster an environment where students feel comfortable sharing new
ideas and participating in discussions.
Addressing Physical and Psychological Barriers: Overcoming physical
and psychological barriers requires a variety of approaches. For instance, rearranging the
classroom to accommodate students with disabilities or addressing psychological barriers
through counseling and support can help students communicate more effectively.
Utilizing Visual Aids and Technology: Visual aids like charts, diagrams, and
technological tools can significantly enhance communication, especially for students who
may have difficulty with traditional verbal instruction. These tools can also help students
who are visual or auditory learners.
Enhancing Teacher and Student Proficiency: Improving both teacher and student
proficiency in communication is also important. This can involve training for teachers on
inclusive practices and language proficiency enhancement for students.
Role of Technology play in Enhancing Classroom Communication
Technology has significantly transformed classroom communication, enhancing it in several key
ways:
Interactive Learning Platforms: Tools like the Google Classroom, Canvas, and Blackboard
allow for seamless distribution of materials, submission of assignments, and real-time feedback.
This not only streamlines communication between teachers and students but also organizes
coursework management.
Real-Time Collaboration: Applications like Microsoft Teams, Slack, and even shared
documents on Google Drive or Office 365 enable students and teachers to collaborate in real-
time. This can foster group projects, peer reviews, and collective problem-solving sessions,
making learning a more interactive and communal experience.
Communication Apps: Tools like Remind and Class Dojo help in direct communication
between teachers, students, and parents. These apps can be used for announcements, reminders,
direct messaging, and sharing class updates, thereby keeping everyone informed and engaged.
Virtual Classrooms: With the rise of video conferencing tools like Zoom, Skype, or WebEx,
distance learning has become more accessible. These platforms support live lectures, virtual
discussions, and Q&A sessions, which can be crucial for maintaining educational continuity
during times when in-person classes aren’t possible.
Social Media: While often seen as a distraction, when used correctly, social media can enhance
classroom communication. Teachers might create groups for class discussions, share educational
content, or use platforms for assignments that involve multimedia projects, thereby integrating
students’ digital lives with their learning.
Accessibility and Inclusion: Technology aids in communicating with students who have special
needs. For instance, speech-to-text and text-to-speech software, along with other assistive
technologies, help ensure that all students can participate fully in classroom activities.
Gamification and Interactive Tools: Educational games and interactive simulations can make
learning more engaging. Platforms like Kahoot! or Quizlet allows teachers to create fun,
competitive environments that also serve as communication tools where students can learn and
interact in a more dynamic setting.
Feedback Mechanisms: Digital tools provide new avenues for feedback. Online quizzes can
give instant results, surveys can gather student feedback on teaching methods, and digital
portfolios can offer a comprehensive view of a student’s progress over time.
Parental Involvement: Technology facilitates better communication between educators and
parents. Through various apps and platforms, parents can receive updates about their child’s
performance, attendance, and upcoming events, fostering a more collaborative educational
environment.
Data Analysis: Educational technologies can analyze how students interact with content,
providing insights into learning patterns. This data can help teachers adjust their communication
strategies to be more effective, tailoring their approach to different learning styles.
However, integrating technology in classroom communication also requires consideration of
digital equity, ensuring all students have access to the necessary technology and digital literacy
to ensure that both teachers and students can use these tools effectively. While technology
enhances communication, it’s vital to balance it with face-to-face interactions to maintain
personal connections, which are irreplaceable in the educational process.
Conclusion
Communication barriers can significantly impact the learning experience and student
achievement. By understanding these common barriers and implementing strategies to overcome
them, teachers can create a more effective and inclusive learning environment. This not only
helps students understand and convey their thoughts better but also ensures they can
communicate and engage actively, ultimately leading to academic success.
Topic 4: ORGANIZATION AND MANAGEMENT OF TEACHING AND LEARNING
PROCESS
Topic Learning Outcomes
By the end of this topic you should be able to:
 State the meaning of classroom organization and management
 Explain organization principles
 Discuss teacher management responsibilities
 Illustrate a model on teacher management responsibilities
 Explain the types of class organization
 Explain ways to maintain class discipline
 Explain the teachers conduct in the profession
Meaning of classroom organization and management:
 The word ‘organize’ means to form as into a whole consisting of interdependent or
coordinated parts. Parts in this case are elements of the instructional process.
 Class management can be defined as the provision and procedures necessary to establish
and maintain an environment in which instruction and learning can occur.
Organization principles:
Since there are many organizational principles, Schwab categorized them in four common
places, namely:
i. Subject matter: content- concepts, principles, facts, language
ii. Learner: characteristics of learners and the way they learn
iii. Teacher: Teachers’ characteristics and the tasks they face.
iv. Environment: Social, economic, political, physical and organizational contexts in which
education occurs.
Teacher management responsibilities:
 Classroom management can be defined as the provision and procedure necessary to
establish and maintain an environment in which instruction and learning can occur.
 Classroom management is defined as a teacher’s method for maintaining order in the
classroom that is conducive to student achievement.
 Teacher’s management responsibilities include:
o Creation and maintenance of an effective classroom learning environment.
o Designing and interpretation of the syllabus, scheme of work and lesson planning
o Selection and implementation of teaching learning outcomes objectives.
o Selection of appropriate mode (method) of instruction.
o Class motivation and control (discipline)
o Delivery of instruction.
o Assessment of students’ performance.
o Provision of feedback.