HOW DO WE EXPERIENCE

COMMUNICATION?
1.1 Means of Communication
The definition of communication is defined by three terms:
a) Form of Communication
They are ways of communicating such as writing, speaking, or drawing.
Forms have their own rules and methods for conveying a message. For
instance, writing follows grammar and spelling rules to create words,
making it a form of communication.

b) Medium of communication
A medium combines different forms of communication. It often involves
technology that most people don't have control over, e.g., a book uses words,
pictures, and drawings as forms of communication.

c) The media
These are distinct groups of mass communication, like radio, television,
cinema, newspapers, and magazines. They often include multiple forms of
communication. For instance, television combines words, pictures, and
music.

Overall, these terms help us understand how communication works. We learn

about the different ways we talk to each other (forms of communication), how they
can mix together (medium of communication), and the big ways lots of people talk
to each other (the media).

Different forms and media of communication have certain qualities. Some qualities
are inherent, like speech being temporary with no permanent record, while
mediums like magazines can store information. Others are imposed, like the
expectation that cartoons are funny or that radio is a broadcast medium. However,
cartoons can be serious and radio can be used for other purposes. All forms of
communication enhance our senses, such as sight and hearing, even when
technology is involved. Many means of communication are intentional, created to
convey a message, but messages can also be unintentional, like the sound of a
lawnmower indicating a neighbor's activity. Understanding intention is crucial,
especially when interpreting non-verbal messages, which can sometimes be sent
unintentionally.
1.2 Communication Makes Connections
Communication forms connections between people or groups through various
means like talking or advertising. It involves sharing ideas, beliefs, and
information. However, making a connection doesn't automatically ensure effective
communication; we must learn to use it effectively.

1.3 Communication is an Activity

Communication is an active process that involves speaking, listening, creating, and
understanding. It goes beyond just talking; it includes speaking and listening, as
well as more than just looking at pictures; it involves taking photos and viewing
them. Whether in conversation or watching television, we actively participate in
making sense of the message. Watching television isn't a passive activity; it
requires us to actively make sense of the program, just as a team of people actively
puts it together.

1.4 Communication is Learnt

Communication is a skill that we learn, and we also use communication to learn
how to communicate. This process occurs in schools, colleges, and throughout life.
From a young age, we observe and imitate others talking and gesturing. While
some believe that certain basic communication skills are innate, the majority of our
abilities to speak and write are acquired from our parents, peers, and educational
institutions. As we grow, we naturally want to learn these communication skills
because we recognize their practical value, such as the ability to express our
desires and thoughts to others.