Communication Theory of Teaching

This theory of teaching based upon assumptions that the teacher possesses all knowledge and
information which student does not possess. This theory believes that the child has with him
like forgotten knowledge or inherent capacities which need to be unfolded through teaching.
Knowledge, skills, attitudes or interests have to be given from outside.

This theory further assumes that the child is like a clean state, the teacher can imprint upon it
anything through his mode of communications. Therefore, through teaching it is the duty of
the teacher to communicate the knowledge, Understanding and skills he possesses, by
adopting proper methods to the child for his development. Variety of methods and devices
like narration, explanation, demonstration, experimentation, etc., could be used by the teacher
for making his communication as effective as possible. The most appropriate way for the
student is to learn the knowledge, Understanding and skills that the teacher presents,
explains, demonstrates and performs in the classroom.

This theory considers teaching as a way of effective communication. Excellency of a teacher

depends on how well the teacher is able to communicate to his students for bringing desirable
changes in their behaviour.

On philosophical basis this theory is considered and conceived through the Herbartian
assumption of appreciative man i.e., assimilation of new experiences to a man, already
existing in the mind (consisting of past experience and old ideas). Consequently,
communication theory advocates that while communicating with their students, teacher

i) must make use of their past experiences.

ii) Should make use of explanation, narration and demonstration activities, as
methodology
iii) should try to make maximum use of their student’s memory and perceptual abilities
iv) must follow the five famous Herbartian steps–preparation, presentation, assimilation,
organization and recitation while planning their lesson.

The main features of communication theory are: –

 What is to be taught to the child lies outside and not within the child?
 The teacher has to provide the knowledge, skills, etc., to the child by using the
communication strategies involving telling, showing and doing activities.