Glossary

Preconceived notions, opinions, or inclinations that favor one side, often without a fair and objective evaluation of the facts. In communication, biases can influence how messages are encoded, transmitted, received, and interpreted, potentially leading to misunderstandings, misinterpretations, or a lack of empathy. They can stem from personal experiences, cultural backgrounds, societal norms, or individual preferences, and can be conscious or unconscious.

the medium through which the message travels.

The conscious or unconscious choice of the most appropriate medium or pathway through which to send a message. This decision is critical in communication as the effectiveness and impact of a message can be significantly influenced by the chosen channel. Factors influencing channel selection include the message's urgency, complexity, sensitivity, formality, the desired level of interactivity, the audience's preferences, and the available resources.

The process of generating meaning by sending and receiving verbal and nonverbal symbols and signs that are influenced by multiple contexts.

refers to the environment or situation in which communication takes place.

Interpreting the meaning based on one’s own experiences, knowledge, and cultural background. Effective receivers are active listeners, paying attention to both verbal and nonverbal cues.

Translating thoughts, emotions, and ideas into a form suitable for transmission.

the receiver’s response to the message.

The circular process within communication where a receiver's response to a message is sent back to the original sender, who then interprets it and potentially adjusts their subsequent messages. This continuous cycle of message and response aids with effective communication, allowing participants to confirm understanding, clarify intentions, correct misunderstandings, and adapt their communication strategies in real-time. Feedback can be verbal (e.g., questions, affirmations, disagreements) or nonverbal (e.g., head nods, facial expressions, body language) and can be explicit or implicit.

A two-way process that depicts communication as a series of exchanges between a sender and a receiver, incorporating the crucial element of feedback. In this model, participants alternate roles as senders and receivers, taking turns to send messages and provide responses.

The specific functions, responsibilities, and behaviors that individuals assume or are assigned when guiding, influencing, and directing a group or organization towards the achievement of shared goals. These roles are multifaceted and can include, but are not limited to, setting vision and strategy, motivating team members, making decisions, fostering collaboration, managing conflict, coaching, mentoring, representing the group, and serving as a role model.

a one-way process, where a sender transmits a message to a receiver, with no feedback from the receiver.

The communication behaviors and actions within a group that are focused on building, maintaining, and strengthening internal relationships, group cohesion, and a positive social climate. Unlike task roles, which are directly related to achieving the group's specific objectives, maintenance roles address the emotional and interpersonal needs of the group members. These roles help to ensure that members feel valued, included, and supported, thereby fostering a productive and harmonious environment.

The ability to access, analyze, evaluate, create, and act using all forms of communication. In a communication context, media literacy involves critically understanding the messages we encounter in various media (such as television, internet, social media, print, and radio), recognizing their potential biases or agendas, and being able to effectively create and disseminate our own messages responsibly. It encompasses the skills needed to navigate the complex and evolving media landscape, fostering informed decision-making and active participation in society.

the core content being conveyed.

any interference that disrupts or distorts the message, preventing it from being accurately received.

the target of the message.

the originator of the message

The communication behaviors and actions within a group that are directly focused on facilitating the accomplishment of the group's specific goals and objectives. These roles are essential for the efficient and effective progress of a task, helping the group to define its purpose, organize its work, analyze information, and reach decisions. Unlike maintenance roles, which address group cohesion, task roles are centered on the output and productivity of the group.

A dynamic and interactive model that views communication as a continuous, simultaneous, and reciprocal process where all participants are both senders and receivers of messages. Unlike linear models that depict one-way communication, the transactional model emphasizes that meaning is co-created through the ongoing exchange of verbal and nonverbal cues, with constant feedback loops.