Language is a human capacity that requires a system of rules (grammar), a sound system (phonology), and a vocabulary (lexicon) to be considered a language
Human beings are the only creatures truly capable of producing language
People can understand each other using language because they belong to the same speech community
Language acquisition is the process of acquiring languages used by those in the community while growing up
Languages acquired while growing up are known as mother tongues or first languages
Language learning is the process of formally studying or informally acquiring languages
Language change is the result of constant interaction and communication among individuals
Communication is the exchange of thoughts, ideas, concepts, and views between or among two or more people
Context, such as physical setting and value positions, impacts communication
Verbal and non-verbal communication are two types that should be blended for effective communication
Visual communication conveys information and messages using visuals
Communication can be classified according to context: intrapersonal, interpersonal, extended, organizational, and intercultural communication
Intrapersonal communication involves talking to oneself and can be advantageous for practicing speech
Interpersonal communication involves interactive exchanges between individuals to maintain social relationships or accomplish tasks
Extended communication involves the use of electronic media
Organizational communication focuses on communication within organizational contexts and includes formal and informal structures
Formal structure allows communication through designated channels like downward, upward, horizontal, and crosswise communication
Informal communication, known as 'grapevine,' occurs through unofficial channels and may involve rumors and baseless gossip
Intercultural communication occurs between people with different backgrounds and orientations, affecting how messages are communicated and interpreted
Communication can also be classified according to purpose and style: formal and informal communication
Formal communication employs formal language for lectures, speeches, reports, and business letters with the main objectives to inform, entertain, and persuade
Informal communication involves personal conversations with friends, family, or acquaintances using oral or written modes to socialize and enhance relationships
Communication is a continuous process that is dynamic and ever-changing
Communication involves variables that affect the whole communication system
Neglecting any of these variables can lead to communication breakdown
Basic factors in communication are the speaker (encoder/sender) and the listener (decoder/receiver)
In an interaction, each person plays dual roles as a sender and receiver of the message
The message is sent through a channel from the sender to the receiver
There are different models of communication including the Aristotelian, Lasswell, Shannon-Weaver, Schramm's, and Berlo's models
Eugene White's model focuses on the eight stages of oral communication
Principles of effective oral communication:
Be clear with your purpose
Be complete with the message
Be concise
Be natural with your delivery
Be specific and timely with your feedback
Principles of effective written communication (The 7Cs):
Be clear
Be concise
Be concrete
Be correct
Be coherent
Be complete
Be courteous
Communication ethics emphasize the influence of morals on behavior and communication
Communication modes include face-to-face interaction, video, audio, and text-based communication
Face-to-face interaction is an informal conversation between people to establish or maintain relationships
Video communication allows people separated by distance to interact effectively
Electronic applications for video calls include Skype, Viber, WhatsApp, Apple FaceTime, and Facebook Messenger
Video communication modes include Viber, WhatsApp, Apple FaceTime, and Facebook Messenger
Video-conferencing is used in formal settings for communication