An Introduction to Public Speaking
I. Communication is a highly complex process involving the sharing of information with others in order to make common the knowledge you possess.
A. Because communication can be classified as both a process and a product, it is defined as "the sharing of meaning by sending and receiving symbolic cues."
B. Communication requires three elements in order to be a successful process, and these three elements are illustrated in the triangle of meaning.
1. The first element necessary to successful communication is the interpreter.
a. Interpreters are simply the individuals communicating through the use of symbols such as words or gestures.
b. The word interpreter pertains to both the person sending and the person receiving messages.
2. The second element necessary to successful communication is the symbol.
a. A symbol can be anything that has an assigned meaning.
b. Anything, a sign, a word, or a gesture, that we understand to signify something is a symbol.
3. The third and final element necessary to successful communication is the referent, which can be a very puzzling concept.
a. The referent is the idea for which a symbol stands, or simply the meaning of a symbol.
b. Referents are dependent upon an individual's awareness and understanding, and they are not the same as objects.
c. Although the sender of messages may intend for receiver to possess the same referent for a symbol as he or she does, this is not always the case and is cause for miscommunication.
d. A referent is quite possibly the most essential element to the triangle of meaning because "words and other symbols have no inherent meaning" without a referent.
4. The most important thing to remember about the process of communication and the triangle of meaning is that "people have meaning; words do not."
II. Communication can occur on different levels dependent upon the number of people communicating, the formality of the circumstances, and the prospect for feedback from others.
A. Intrapersonal communication is engaged in oneself, hence the prefix "intra-" meaning within.
1. Self-encouragement, daydreaming, worrying, and trying to remember to do something are all examples of intrapersonal communication.
2. Intrapersonal communication is mostly done in silence except for the occasional outburst of elation or discouragement.
B. Interpersonal communication transpires between two people on a rather personal level.
1. Interpersonal communication typically occurs between two acquaintances, however can also transpire between complete strangers such as a police officer and the witness to a crime.
2. Interpersonal communication between friends is likely to be ended with one friend finishing the other's sentences next section take over and conclude).
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