Multiple choice questions
Slide 1
Which of the following best defines communication?
A. The process of creating meaning through symbolic interaction
B. The act of listening to someone speak
C. The use of technology to send messages
D. The sharing of nonverbal cues only
Answer: A
Which characteristic of communication refers to it being continuous and ongoing?
A. It is symbolic
B. It is relational, not individual
C. It is a process
D. It is mediated
Answer: C
What does it mean to say communication is relational, not individual?
A. It is influenced by context
B. It happens between people and affects their relationships
C. It uses symbols to represent ideas
D. It involves mass media
Answer: B
Communication is considered symbolic because:
A. It is a continuous process
B. It involves interaction between people
C. It uses words and gestures to represent ideas
D. It includes feedback
Answer: C
Which model views communication as a one-way process from sender to receiver?
A. Transactional model
B. Circular model
C. Linear model
D. Interactive model
Answer: C
In the linear model of communication, who is responsible for translating thoughts into a
message?
A. Receiver
B. Sender
C. Channel
D. Feedback
Answer: B
What is the role of the channel in the linear model of communication?
A. To encode the message
B. To decode the message
C. To carry the message from sender to receiver
D. To provide feedback
Answer: C
What does noise refer to in the communication process?
A. Any factor that enhances message clarity
B. Any interference that distorts the message
C. The feedback from the receiver
D. The context of the communication
Answer: B
In the linear model, what does the term “environment” refer to?
A. The physical or psychological context influencing communication
B. The feedback provided by the receiver
C. The medium used to transmit the message
D. The symbols used in the message
Answer: A
Which model of communication emphasizes feedback and sees communication as a dynamic
process?
A. Linear model
B. Transactional model
C. Interactive model
D. Circular model
Answer: B
In the transactional model, what is feedback?
A. The initial message sent by the sender
B. The medium through which the message is sent
C. The response of the receiver to the sender’s message
D. The interference in the communication process
Answer: C
Which type of communication involves self-talk or inner dialogue?
A. Interpersonal communication
B. Mass communication
C. Intrapersonal communication
D. Small group communication
Answer: C
Direct, face-to-face communication between two or more people is called:
A. Public communication
B. Intrapersonal communication
C. Interpersonal communication
D. Organisational communication
Answer: C
Communication within small groups, such as a team meeting, is known as:
A. Mass communication
B. Interpersonal communication
C. Small group communication
D. Public communication
Answer: C
What type of communication is used to reach large audiences through media like TV and the
internet?
A. Public communication
B. Mass communication
C. Organisational communication
D. Small group communication
Answer: B
How has changing technology impacted communication?
A. By making communication less effective
B. By reducing the need for face-to-face interactions
C. By enabling new forms of digital and online communication
D. By simplifying the process of encoding messages
Answer: C
What does changing discipline refer to in communication?
A. The evolving methods and approaches in communication studies
B. The increased use of nonverbal communication
C. The static nature of communication theories
D. The shift towards using more traditional communication models
Answer: A
Which need is fulfilled by communication that involves forming social bonds?
A. Physical need
B. Identity need
C. Social need
D. Practical need
Answer: C
The need to communicate for self-expression and self-understanding is known as:
A. Social ne’d
B. Physical need
C. Practical need
D. Identity need
Answer: D
Communicating to achieve everyday tasks, such as coordinating schedules, fulfills which need?
A. Physical need
B. Practical need
C. Social need
D. Identity need
Answer: B
How does communication fulfill physical needs?
A. By helping us form our identity
B. By creating and maintaining social bonds
C. By reducing stress and promoting health
D. By helping us achieve practical goals
Answer: C
Communication competence is defined as:
A. The ability to communicate effectively and appropriately in various situations
B. The ability to send messages without feedback
C. The skill of encoding messages only
D. The use of technology in communication
Answer: A
Which characteristic is important for a competent communicator?
A. Ignoring feedback
B. Flexibility in communication styles
C. Relying solely on nonverbal cues
D. Avoiding interactions with others
Answer: B
A competent communicator is able to:
A. Use the same approach in every situation
B. Adapt their communication to different contexts and audiences
C. Avoid listening to others
D. Communicate without considering the context
Answer: B
Which element is essential for defining communication?
A. Silence
B. Meaning
C. Solitude
D. Technology
Answer: B
Communication primarily involves which of the following?
A. Reading books
B. Symbolic interaction
C. Physical actions
D. Silent meditation
Answer: B
Which characteristic of communication highlights its continuous nature?
A. It is symbolic
B. It is relational, not individual
C. It is a process
D. It involves feedback
Answer: C
The relational aspect of communication means it:
A. Is always nonverbal
B. Affects relationships between people
C. Happens within an individual
D. Is limited to professional settings
Answer: B
The symbolic nature of communication implies that:
A. Communication is always literal
B. Symbols such as words and gestures are used to convey meaning
C. It does not involve feedback
D. Only verbal communication is important
Answer: B
In the linear model, the sender is responsible for:
A. Decoding the message
B. Encoding the message
C. Providing feedback
D. Interpreting the context
Answer: B
Which component carries the message in the linear model?
A. Sender
B. Channel
C. Receiver
D. Feedback
Answer: B
Noise in the linear model refers to:
A. Physical sounds only
B. Any factor that disrupts communication
C. Positive reinforcement
D. Nonverbal cues
Answer: B
The environment in the linear model includes:
A. Only the physical surroundings
B. Only the emotional state of the sender
C. Both the physical and psychological context
D. The content of the message
Answer: C
The transactional model of communication emphasizes:
A. One-way message flow
B. Dynamic interaction and feedback
C. Predetermined roles of sender and receiver
D. Lack of context
Answer: B
Feedback in the transactional model is important because:
A. It ensures the message is one-way
B. It allows for clarification and understanding
C. It eliminates noise
D. It makes encoding unnecessary
Answer: B
Intrapersonal communication involves:
A. Dialogue with another person
B. Self-talk or inner dialogue
C. Group discussions
D. Public speaking
Answer: B
Interpersonal communication is characterized by:
A. Communication within oneself
B. Mass media interactions
C. Direct, face-to-face communication
D. Communicating with a large audience
Answer: C
Small group communication typically occurs in:
A. One-on-one settings
B. Organizational hierarchies
C. Teams or committee meetings
D. Broadcast media
Answer: C
Mass communication differs from other types by:
A. Involving face-to-face interaction
B. Using media to reach large audiences
C. Being highly personal
D. Occurring within small groups
Answer: B
Changing technology in communication has led to:
A. Reduced communication options
B. Increased digital and online interactions
C. Less need for communication skills
D. Simpler communication models
Answer: B
The term ‘changing discipline’ in communication refers to:
A. Fixed and unchanging methods
B. Evolving approaches and studies in communication
C. Reduction in academic research
D. Less emphasis on communication
Answer: B
Which function of communication is essential for building relationships and forming social
bonds?
A. Physical need
B. Identity need
C. Social need
D. Practical need
Answer: C
Communicating for self-understanding and self-expression fulfills which need?
A. Social need
B. Physical need
C. Practical need
D. Identity need
Answer: D
When communication is used to complete everyday tasks, it fulfills which need?
A. Physical need
B. Practical need
C. Social need
D. Identity need
Answer: B
How does communication fulfill physical needs?
A. By reducing stress and improving well-being
B. By forming personal identity
C. By helping with social bonding
D. By achieving everyday tasks
Answer: A
What does communication competence involve?
A. Only sending messages
B. Effectively and appropriately communicating in different situations
C. Ignoring feedback
D. Communicating without context
Answer: B
A key characteristic of competent communicators is:
A. Ignoring the audience
B. Adapting communication styles to fit different contexts
C. Using only one form of communication
D. Avoiding feedback
Answer: B
Competent communicators are able to:
A. Use the same method in every situation
B. Adjust their communication to various audiences and contexts
C. Rely solely on nonverbal communication
D. Communicate without considering the other person’s perspective
Answer: B
Which of the following best describes mediated communication?
A. Face-to-face interaction
B. Communication through a technological medium
C. Nonverbal communication
D. Communication within a small group
Answer: B
In the transactional model, what role does context play?
A. It is irrelevant to the communication process
B. It influences how messages are sent, received, and interpreted
C. It is the same as noise
D. It only affects the sender
Answer: B
The act of encoding in communication refers to:
A. Interpreting a message
B. Sending feedback
C. Translating thoughts into symbols
D. Eliminating noise
Answer: C
Decoding in the communication process involves:
A. Creating a message
B. Interpreting and making sense of received messages
C. Providing feedback
D. Selecting the channel
Answer: B
Public communication typically involves:
A. Talking to oneself
B. Interacting with a small, private group
C. Speaking to a large audience
D. Using mass media
Answer: C
Organizational communication occurs within:
A. Personal relationships
B. Media platforms
C. Formal and structured environments like businesses
D. Casual, everyday interactions
Answer: C
Which of the following is NOT a type of noise in communication?
A. Physical noise
B. Semantic noise
C. Psychological noise
D. Technological noise
Answer: D
The term ‘mediated communication’ includes:
A. Face-to-face conversations
B. Letters and emails
C. Internal dialogue
D. Group discussions
Answer: B
The feedback loop in the transactional model helps to:
A. Maintain one-way communication
B. Confirm understanding and allow adjustments
C. Eliminate the need for symbols
D. Simplify the encoding process
Answer: B
Communication and the Self
Slide 2
What is the self-concept?
A. The way others perceive you
B. The image you have of yourself
C. Your personality type
D. Your listening skills
Answer: B
The self-concept is developed through:
A. Solely personal experiences
B. Interactions with others and self-reflection
C. Genetic factors only
D. Media influences alone
Answer: B
Self-esteem refers to:
A. The evaluation of your worth
B. Your physical appearance
C. The roles you play in society
D. Your professional achievements
Answer: A
Personality is best described as:
A. The roles you assume in your career
B. Your consistent behavioral traits and patterns
C. The clothes you wear
D. Your academic qualifications
Answer: B
What’s Your Personality Type?
Which of the following traits is associated with extroversion?
A. Preferring solitude
B. Enjoying social interactions
C. Focusing on internal thoughts
D. Avoiding group activities
Answer: B
An introverted person typically:
A. Seeks out social gatherings
B. Feels energized by alone time
C. Relies on intuition
D. Makes decisions based on feelings
Answer: B
Sensing individuals prefer:
A. Abstract concepts
B. Concrete and practical information
C. Emotional decision-making
D. Spontaneity
Answer: B
People who rely on intuition tend to:
A. Focus on the present details
B. Trust their gut feelings
C. Be very analytical
D. Avoid future possibilities
Answer: B
Thinkers make decisions based on:
A. Emotions and values
B. Logical analysis and objective criteria
C. Social harmony
D. Personal experiences
Answer: B
Feelers tend to prioritize:
A. Objective analysis
B. Logical reasoning
C. Personal values and relationships
D. Concrete facts
Answer: C
Judging personality types prefer:
A. Flexibility and spontaneity
B. Structure and organization
C. Delaying decisions
D. Taking risks
Answer: B
Perceiving individuals are characterized by their:
A. Need for order
B. Preference for open-ended situations
C. Strict adherence to plans
D. Avoidance of new experiences
Answer: B
Reflected appraisal refers to:
A. How you see yourself based on others’ feedback
B. Your self-imposed standards
C. The achievements you are proud of
D. Your physical appearance
Answer: A
How does self-concept influence communication with others?
A. It has no impact
B. It affects how you interpret messages and interact
C. It determines the language you use
D. It only influences written communication
Answer: B
A self-fulfilling prophecy occurs when:
A. Your expectations influence the outcomes of a situation
B. You rely solely on feedback from others
C. You avoid communication with others
D. You change your personality type
Answer: A
Type 1 self-fulfilling prophecy occurs when:
A. Your expectations influence your own behavior
B. Others’ expectations shape your actions
C. You ignore external feedback
D. You set unrealistic goals
Answer: A
Type 2 self-fulfilling prophecy occurs when:
A. Your expectations influence your own actions
B. One person’s expectations govern another’s actions
C. You avoid setting goals
D. You rely on past experiences
Answer: B
Listening is valuable because:
A. It is the same as hearing
B. It enhances understanding and relationships
C. It requires no effort
D. It involves only nonverbal communication
Answer: B
Which statement is a myth about listening?
A. Hearing is the physical act of receiving sound
B. Listening requires active engagement
C. Hearing and listening are the same thing
D. Listening involves interpreting meaning
Answer: C
The first step in the listening process is:
A. Responding
B. Remembering
C. Attending
D. Understanding
Answer: C
Understanding in the listening process refers to:
A. Physically hearing sounds
B. Interpreting and making sense of the message
C. Giving feedback
D. Storing information for later use
Answer: B
Listening fidelity is:
A. The ability to hear sounds accurately
B. The degree to which the listener’s understanding matches the sender’s message
C. The act of remembering details
D. Responding to messages with nonverbal cues
Answer: B
Responding in the listening process involves:
A. Ignoring the speaker
B. Giving verbal or nonverbal feedback
C. Simply hearing the message
D. Forgetting the information
Answer: B
The residual message is:
A. The main idea you take away from a communication
B. Unimportant details of the message
C. The noise in the communication process
D. The physical environment
Answer: A
Which is a misconception about listening?
A. Listening requires effort and skill
B. Listening is a natural, automatic process
C. Good listeners provide feedback
D. Effective listening improves communication
Answer: B
Mindful listening requires:
A. Minimal attention to the speaker
B. Full, undivided attention and focus
C. Avoiding eye contact
D. Disregarding the speaker’s emotions
Answer: B
Which statement about listening is a myth?
A. All listeners receive the same message
B. Listeners interpret messages based on their own experiences
C. Listening involves understanding the speaker’s intent
D. Effective listeners consider context
Answer: A
Which is a common reason for poor listening?
A. High levels of mindfulness
B. Distractions and noise
C. Clear and concise messages
D. Strong interest in the topic
Answer: B
Poor listening can occur because of:
A. Effective communication strategies
B. Preoccupation with personal thoughts
C. Active engagement in the conversation
D. Adequate feedback from the listener
Answer: B
Which of the following best describes self-concept?
A. Your image in society
B. Your perception of who you are
C. The way you present yourself to others
D. Your physical appearance
Answer: B
Self-concept is primarily shaped by:
A. Genetics
B. Feedback from others and personal experiences
C. Physical attributes
D. Professional achievements
Answer: B
High self-esteem is typically characterized by:
A. Negative self-evaluation
B. Positive self-worth and confidence
C. Indifference to feedback
D. Perfectionism
Answer: B
Low self-esteem can lead to:
A. Increased social interactions
B. Avoidance of new challenges
C. Greater resilience
D. High self-concept
Answer: B
Personality can be defined as:
A. A temporary state of mind
B. Consistent behavior patterns and traits
C. Physical attributes
D. Professional skills
Answer: B
What’s Your Personality Type?
People with an extroverted personality typically:
A. Prefer to be alone
B. Seek social interactions and external stimulation
C. Avoid large gatherings
D. Focus on internal thoughts
Answer: B
Introverts are more likely to:
A. Enjoy large social gatherings
B. Feel energized by spending time alone
C. Seek constant social engagement
D. Be the center of attention
Answer: B
A person who is sensing rather than intuitive is more likely to:
A. Trust gut feelings over facts
B. Focus on details and concrete information
C. Be imaginative and future-oriented
D. Avoid practical solutions
Answer: B
Intuitive individuals prefer:
A. Practical, here-and-now thinking
B. Big-picture, abstract concepts
C. Details and concrete information
D. Routine and tradition
Answer: B
Thinkers typically make decisions based on:
A. Personal values and emotions
B. Objective analysis and logic
C. Social harmony and relationships
D. Intuition and gut feelings
Answer: B
Feelers prioritize:
A. Logical analysis
B. Personal values and the impact on others
C. Objective criteria
D. Detachment from emotions
Answer: B
Judging personality types tend to:
A. Prefer flexibility and spontaneity
B. Enjoy structure and clear plans
C. Avoid making decisions
D. Embrace uncertainty
Answer: B
Perceiving individuals are likely to:
A. Value order and schedules
B. Prefer open-ended and flexible situations
C. Make quick, definitive decisions
D. Rely on rigid plans
Answer: B
Reflected appraisal is:
A. How you see yourself based on personal achievements
B. How others’ views and reactions shape your self-concept
C. Your evaluation of your physical appearance
D. The way you perceive your role in society
Answer: B
An example of reflected appraisal is:
A. Setting personal goals
B. Receiving compliments from friends and feeling valued
C. Evaluating your own skills
D. Reflecting on past experiences
Answer: B
Your self-concept influences communication with others by:
A. Determining your level of extroversion
B. Shaping your interactions and interpretations
C. Ensuring you always agree with others
D. Limiting your ability to receive feedback
Answer: B
A positive self-concept can lead to:
A. Poor communication skills
B. More effective and confident interactions
C. Avoidance of social situations
D. Misinterpretation of messages
Answer: B
A self-fulfilling prophecy involves:
A. Relying on others’ feedback
B. Acting in ways that make your expectations come true
C. Ignoring personal goals
D. Avoiding predictions about your behavior
Answer: B
In Type 1 self-fulfilling prophecy, your expectations influence:
A. Another person’s behavior
B. Your own actions and outcomes
C. External circumstances
D. Unrelated events
Answer: B
Type 2 self-fulfilling prophecy occurs when:
A. Your expectations influence your behavior
B. One person’s expectations affect another’s actions
C. External events dictate outcomes
D. You rely on self-reflection
Answer: B
Effective listening helps to:
A. Dominate conversations
B. Enhance understanding and build relationships
C. Minimize communication
D. Avoid social interactions
Answer: B
Hearing and listening differ because:
A. Hearing involves active engagement
B. Listening is a passive process
C. Hearing is the physical act, while listening involves interpreting and understanding
D. Listening requires no effort
Answer: C
Attending in the listening process means:
A. Ignoring the speaker
B. Focusing on the message being communicated
C. Providing feedback
D. Forgetting the information
Answer: B
Understanding in the listening process is:
A. Physically hearing the message
B. Making sense of and interpreting the message
C. Giving nonverbal feedback
D. Retaining information for future use
Answer: B
Listening fidelity refers to:
A. Accurate hearing
B. The listener’s understanding matching the sender’s intent
C. The act of responding
D. Remembering all details
Answer: B
Responding in the listening process involves:
A. Ignoring the message
B. Providing verbal or nonverbal feedback
C. Simply hearing the sounds
D. Forgetting the message
Answer: B
The residual message is:
A. Noise in the communication process
B. The key idea retained after listening
C. The physical context
D. A nonverbal cue
Answer: B
Listening is not a natural process because:
A. It requires no effort
B. It involves skills and active engagement
C. Everyone is naturally good at it
D. It happens automatically
Answer: B
Mindful listening requires:
A. Minimal concentration
B. Full, undivided attention
C. Ignoring the speaker’s emotions
D. Diverting attention
Answer: B
Listeners do not receive the same message because:
A. Everyone has the same experiences
B. Listeners interpret messages based on personal experiences and contexts
C. Messages are always clear
D. Communication is unidirectional
Answer: B
Poor listening often results from:
A. Effective communication strategies
B. Distractions and noise
C. Active engagement
D. Strong interest in the topic
Answer: B
Preoccupation with personal thoughts can lead to:
A. Effective listening
B. Poor listening habits
C. Better understanding
D. Clear communication
Answer: B
Which of the following is NOT a reason for poor listening?
A. Overload of information
B. Lack of focus
C. Clear and concise messaging
D. Prejudgments about the speaker
Answer: C
Which reason for poor listening involves focusing on your response rather than understanding
the speaker?
A. Prejudging the speaker
B. Rehearsing
C. Message complexity
D. Physical distractions
Answer: B