Modes of Communication

Lesson 1: Forms of Communication

Communication Modes are the following:

1. Face to face interaction - the mutual influence of an individual's direct physical presence
with his/her body language.
2. Video - refers to the transmission of information via live video streaming or through video
sharing. With this form of communication, information senders and recipients are able to
interact using both audio and video.
3. Audio - any form of transmission that is based on hearing. It emulates the natural voice.
4. Text-based communication - means using handheld wireless telecommunications device to
manually communicate with any person or business.

What Are Communication Strategies?

Communication is the exchange of information between a sender and a receiver. It used to be
that you only had to worry about the way you communicated face-to-face or on paper.
Technology has changed this completely. It is important for people to take into account every
aspect of how they are relaying information. This is where communication strategies come into
play.
Communication strategies are the blueprints on how this information will be exchanged. It may
include paraphrasing, substitution, coining new words, switching to the first language and asking
for clarification.
Types of Communication Strategies
Communication strategies can be verbal, nonverbal, or visual. Integrating all the strategies
together will allow you to see the most success. This allows a business to meet employee
needs and increase workplace knowledge.
Verbal communication strategies can be broken down into the two categories of written and
oral communication. Written strategies consist of avenues such as e-mail, text, and chat.
Examples that fall into the oral category are phone calls, video chats, and face-to-face
conversations.
Non-verbal communication strategies consist of mostly visual cues, such as body language,
facial expressions, physical distance between communicators, or the tone of your voice. These
cues are typically not intended. However, it is important to realize the message you are sending.
Otherwise, you may be saying one thing, yet the receiver is hearing another.
Visual communication strategies can be seen through signs, webpages, and illustrations.
These strategies are used in the workplace to draw attention and provide documentation.
Human resources are required to post certain visuals throughout the workplace to comply with
safety laws.
Physical media we mean channels where the person who is talking can be seen and heard by
the audience.
 The whole point here is to be able to not only hear the messages but also to see the
body language and feel the climate in the room. This does not need to be two-way
channels.

 In certain situations, the receiver expects physical communication. This is the case,
especially when dealing with high concern messages, e.g. organizational change or
downsizing.

 If a message is perceived as important to the receiver, they expect to hear it live from
their manager.

1. Large meetings, town hall meetings

Large meetings have got great symbolic value and should be used only at special occasions.
This channel works very well when you need to get across strategic and important messages to
a large group of people at the same time, creating a wide attention, get engagement or
communicate a sense of belonging. Large meetings are excellent when you want to present a
new vision or strategy, inform about a re-organization or share new values. The opportunity for
dialogue is limited at large meeting, of course but you can create smaller groups where dialogue
can be performed.
2. Department meetings (weekly meetings)
In the weekly meetings you and your group communicate daily operative issues, gives status
reports and solves problems. Weekly meetings are also used to follow up on information from
large meetings, management team meetings etc. from a “what’s-in-it-for-us-perspective”. This
type of smaller group meetings gives good opportunities for dialogue. This channel is often the
most important channel you have as a manager, because that’s where you have the opportunity
to build the big picture, you can prepare for change, you can create ownership of important
strategies and goals etc. This is a favorite among the types of communication medium.
3. Up close and personal (exclusive meetings)
This is a form of meetings where, often, a senior manager meets with a “random” selection of
employees to discuss and answer questions. Some managers use this as an on-going activity
on a monthly basis. It can also be used in specific projects or campaigns e.g. launching new
strategies.
4. Viral communication or word of mouth
Or viral marketing as it is also called works external as well as internal and refer to marketing
techniques that use pre-existing social networks to produce increases in awareness or
knowledge through self-replicating viral processes. It can be word-of-mouth delivered or
enhanced by the network effects of social media.
With physical media, we mean channels where the person who is talking can be seen and
heard by the audience. The whole point here is to be able to not only hear the messages but
also to see the body language and feel the climate in the room. This does not need to be two-
way channels. In certain situations, the receiver expects physical communication. This is the
case, especially when dealing with high concern messages, e.g. organizational change or
downsizing. If a message is perceived as important to the receiver, they expect to hear it live
from their manager.
Print media is one of the oldest and basic forms of communication. It includes newspapers,
weeklies, magazines, monthlies, banners & graphics, posters, and other forms of printed
material. The contribution of print media in providing information and the transfer of knowledge
is remarkable.
Broadcast Media this refers to primarily television and radio, although broadcasting companies
have expanded to offer digital offerings including media streaming applications and other robust
web-based offerings.
The second of the two types of communication medium is mechanical media. With mechanical
media we mean written or electronic channels. These channels can be used as archives for
messages or for giving the big picture and a deeper knowledge. But they can also be very fast.
Typically, though, because it is written, it is always interpreted by the reader based on his or her
mental condition. Irony or even humor rarely travels well in mechanical channels.
Examples:
E-mail
E-mail is a good channel for the daily communication to specific target groups. It is suitable
mainly for up-to-date and “simple” messages and where there is no risk of misunderstanding, E-
mail is an important supplement to weekly meetings and the Intranet. Invitation to and agenda
for meetings can with advantage be sent out with e-mail before the meeting, while background
facts and minutes from meetings is well suited to be stored on the Intranet.
Some short e-mail tips:
 Write short and to the point.
 Target your messages to the audience and avoid sending unnecessary all-employees-e-
mails.
 Set up your subject line to describe what the e-mail is about.
 Clearly state if the message is for information or for action.
 Avoid attaching large documents if possible. Post a link or direct to the source instead.

Weekly letters or newsletters

Managers that have large groups of employees and who has difficulties in meeting all of them
often choose to publish a personally weekly letter. It is sort of a short summary of news with
personally reflections. Many employees often appreciate it because it has the potential to give
the “what’s-in-it-for-us” angle. They can also contain summaries and status in tasks, projects or
issues –yesterday, today and tomorrow.
Personal letters
At special occasions it can be justified to send a personal letter to employees in order to get
attention to a specific issue. E.g. pat on the back letter after extra ordinary achievements. Or it
can be a letter with your personal commentary on an ongoing re-organization that affects many
employees. One other example is a letter that summarizes the past year and wishes all the best
for the holidays.
Billboard
One of the most forgotten types of communication medium is clearly the billboard. Especially
today, when everything is about social media. But the good thing with the billboard is that you
can use billboards to inform people who does not have computers and/or access to the Intranet
or to reach people that work part time and people who does not have computers and/or access
to the Intranet or to reach people that work part time and does not attend weekly meetings
Intranet
The Intranet is of course one of the most used types of communication medium and a very
important communication channel and work tool for you as a manager, but it is also your job to
help your employees prioritize and pick out the information on the Intranet, as well as translating
messages into local consequences. Ask yourself: what information concerns you employees? In
what way are they concerned? How could I best communicate this to my employees? Weekly
meeting or your weekly letter can be a suitable channel to discuss or inform of information found
on the Intranet.
Employee magazine or papers
A Magazine offers the opportunity to deepen a specific issue, explain context, describing
consequences or tell a story. It also has the opportunity to reach many employees. If you want
to create a broad internal understanding of strategic messages the magazine can be a good
vehicle to use e.g. by writing an article based on an interview with you. As were the case with
the Intranet you also have to “translate” the information in the magazine to your employees. You
can ask yourself: What does the content in a specific article mean to us? How shall I best
communicate it to the employees?
SMS
Or text messaging to the mobile phone is one of the new types of communication medium and
not a very widely used channel but where it is used it is proven very effective. Some companies
use it as an alert system e.g. for giving managers a head start when something important will be
published on the Intranet. The advantage with SMS is that it is fast. But it should be used rarely
as an exclusive channel. Some companies use it as a subscription tool where you can
subscribe to e.g., press-releases.
Social media
Wikipedia describe social media as “Media designed to be disseminated through social
interaction, created using highly accessible and scalable publishing techniques. Social media
supports the human need for social interaction, using Internet- and web-based technologies to
transform broadcast media monologues (one to many) into social media dialogues (many to
many). It supports the democratization of knowledge and information, transforming people from
content consumers into content producers. Businesses also refer to social media as user-
generated content (UGC) or consumer-generated media (CGM).
More and more companies are using social media in their external marketing, setting up twitter
and Facebook accounts etc. But these channels are also used internal where managers
become “friends” on Facebook with their employees or where managers use blog and twitter
targeting their employees.
Interactive Media
This refers to products and services on digital computer-based systems that respond to the
user's actions by presenting content such as text, moving image, animation, video, audio, and
video games. Video games, DVDs, cell phones, and the Internet are an integral part of the
modern-day world. All of these technologies employ interactive media. Advertising and
marketing agencies are looking for new ways to use interactive media to connect with
customers. Educational institutions are expanding their reach by providing online degrees. In
this article, you can explore interactive media education and career options. Schools offering
Animation degrees can also be found in these popular choices.
Electronic Media
This refers to any type of device that stores and allows distribution or use of electronic
information. This includes television, radio, Internet, fax, CDROMs, DVDs, and any other
electronic medium. Contrast to print media.
New Age Media
New Media is used to describe content made available using different forms of electronic
communication made possible through the use of computer technology. Generally, the phrase
new media describes content available on-demand through the Internet.
This content can be viewed on any device and provides way for people to interact with the
content in real-time with the inclusion of user comments and making it easy for people to share
the content online and in social with friends and co-workers.
Examples of New Media
The phrase new media is in relation to "old" media forms, such as print newspapers and
magazines, that are static representations of text and graphics. New media includes
 websites and blogs
 streaming audio and video
 chat rooms
 email
 online communities
 social media and sharing platforms
 mobile apps
 Web advertising
 DVD and CD-ROM media
 virtual reality environments
 integration of digital data with the telephone, such as Internet telephony
 digital cameras
Lesson 2: Communication and Technology
The Aid of Technology in Communication:
The technology has modified the methods of communication. Every year, new devices are
introduced. We use them to communicate. The Internet has made evolution of communication
more effective. We can send messages with just one click. Computers, mobile phones, laptops,
radios, etc, all help us to communicate. Before the Industrial Revolution and even sometime
after that, People had to wait for days, weeks, and months to hear from others. But now
technology has made it easier. The latest applications, devices enable us to have secure
communication with others.
Evolution in the Communication Methods:
Humans have been using different methods to communicate from the beginning. Let’s have a
look at the history of human communication briefly.
Cave Paintings:
Cave Paintings are the oldest methods of communicating. They were used to mark territories.
Major events were also recorded through these paintings. They are usually found on the walls
and ceilings of caves. Symbolic as well as religious functions were shown in these paintings.
Chauvet Cave in France has the oldest cave painting. That painting was made around 30,000
B.C. South Sulawesi, Indonesia, and Coliboaia Cave in Romania has the earliest cave paintings
Wpc2027.
Symbols for Communication:
Different sighns and symbols were used to deliver messages. Rock Carvings (Petroglyphs)
were introduced in 10,000 B.C. These rock paintings drew pictures to convey stories. The
carvings on the rock surface were also known as Rock Art. Later on, graphic symbols were used
to present ideas or concepts. Chinese created characters for communication as well. Alphabets
were created at the last. Evolution of communication was easier after the alphabet.
Smoke Signals:
These signals were used to send messages. They were mostly used in China. Chinese guards
released smoke into the air. Smoke is depicted as a message to The Great Wall of China. A
famous Greek Historian Polybius used smoke signals to represent the alphabet.
Carrier Pigeons:
Pigeons are known well for their directions. They were known to find their home, even after
traveling long distances. People used to attach small letters to their necks, hoping they would fly
to the receiver. Pigeons were also used by Ancient Romans to tell owners how their entries had
been placed. They carried essential messages and helped in evolution of communication.
Postal System:
With raising awareness, people started to use courier services. Letters were delivered from one
person to another through postal services. These systems were organized in India, China,
Persia, and Rome. A Frenchman De Valyer started a postal system in 1653. The use of
mailboxes and delivery of letters was done through the system.
Newspapers:
Newspapers are still a wide form of communication used. Every other house has a newspaper
delivery every day. These papers deliver written news and also other important national events
taking place. Two types of Newspapers are National and International. Their types depend upon
the news they deliver about. The first printing press system was introduced in 1440 by German
Johannes Gutenberg. The newspaper started to get more attention and changed
communication forever.
Radios:
With the advent of Print Media, Radios were introduced after that. Radios are a source of news
as well as entertainment for people. Wireless signals were studied and tested in detail. The
scientists practiced using wireless power to share content. Radios are still installed in mobile
phones, car systems. They were once a very important medium of communication.
Telegraph:
The first electrical communication system to send text messages was called Telegraph. Sending
letters required energy and patience to wait for a reply. Telegraphs were introduced to send text
messages more quickly than written messages. It helped in sending information across the
country.
Telephone:
The first telephone was introduced by Alexander Graham Bell in 1876. Within 50 years of its
invention, telephones became an essential part of every household and office. The devices
transmitted human audio into signals. These signals were then transmitted through wires.
Landline telephone service began in 1900s. People could talk on calls for hours through long
distances. It was the most reliable form of the communication system. Mobile phones were
introduced in 1973 and the mode of communication was changed entirely.
Television:
Even today, Televisions are a great source of entertainment. They are a mode of indirect
communication to the larger audience. Many people in history put in tremendous efforts to
introduce Televisions. The early Televisions displayed black and white pictures after the World
War II. But with the advancement, colors were added to the screen. Today, there are several
features in Televisions that provide us more entertainment and information.
Internet:
The world of the Web has brought people closer. Tim Berners-Lee invented the World Wide
Web in 1990. Satellites support the internet. Through the internet, we can search for anything,
anywhere in the whole world. Wireless connections via Wi-Fi began in 1991. Since then, people
seem to be addicted to the internet. Nowadays, every small activity of our lives, business, and
education involves the use of the internet. We highly depend upon the internet for our
development as a nation as well as a generation.
E-mail:
Microsoft Business Email is the most formal way of communication used in offices. John Vittal in
1975 developed a software to support mails. From that invention, many mailing platforms have
been created. E-mails are better for record-keeping and cost-saving.
Text Message:
Various network providers are used for sending text messages. The first text message was sent
by Neil Papworth, an engineer, in 1992. From that day to now, text messaging has been a game
of few minutes. People instantly chat through text messages. With advanced internet, online
messaging apps have been introduced. These applications help connect people. They share
texts through the internet.
Social Media:
People share their entire life events on social media. Social media platforms help people share
pictures, videos, and almost everything on the internet. It is the latest mode of communication in
the digital world. Smart phones have made this more convenient. Social media apps can be
downloaded into smart phones. Users of social media in this generation are obsessed with
these platforms. They share the daily smudge of their lives on these apps. Social media has
revolutionized the way we communicate. We can see what other people are doing through their
social media profiles. It is now easy to check up on your friends who live far.

Communication has been made a lot easier. Distance is not an issue anymore. You can talk to
any person you want, either living far or near. Better communication has helped us gain better
social skills. From verbal speech to our text messages, we communicate about life each day. A
feature of privacy through end-to-end encryption has been added to our daily communication
through cell phones and other gadgets.
Conclusion:
We cannot deny the fact that communication is an essential core system of our lives. We
understand and percept the world through communication. Life would feel incomplete without
interacting with others. The older methods of communication were cave paintings, smoke
signals, symbols, carrier pigeons, and telegraph. The latest and modern ways are more
convenient and efficient. For example, Television, Cell Phones, Internet, E-mails, social media,
and Text messaging. Evolution of communication technology has made progress over
thousands of years. This evolution will continue to grow so with the changing world.
Advantages and Disadvantages of Technology in Communication

Advantages of Communication Disadvantages of Communication

Technology Technology
1. Speed and time 1. Deteriorating Language
2. Instantaneous and Efficient 2. Privacy Issue
3. Allow Remote Communication 3. Overruling cultures
4. Elimination of Wires and Cables 4. Distraction from Real Life
5. Mass Communication 5. Potential for Misunderstanding
6. Reduced Costs and Time 6. Lose the Art of Conversation
 7. Expansion of coverage areas

Impact of Technology in Relationships

Technology’s pervasive role in daily life
The impact of technology in relationships and daily existence cannot be overstated. We find
ourselves surrounded by the influence of technology at every turn. Whether it’s for work, leisure,
or simply staying connected with loved ones, the use of smartphones, tablets, and laptops has
become an integral part of our everyday lives. The rise of social media platforms such as
Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter have further cemented technology’s role in our lives, turning
them into pivotal hubs for communication and social interaction.
Smartphones, those pocket-sized marvels, have evolved to become extensions of ourselves.
They not only serve as tools for communication but also as versatile companions in our daily
routines.
Moreover, social media platforms have effectively transformed into digital town squares, where
millions gather to share their lives, stories, and experiences. This virtual interconnectedness
brings people closer together, overcoming geographical barriers and creating new avenues for
connection and communication. The ability to instantly share moments, thoughts, and emotions
with friends and family, regardless of their physical location, is a testament to technology’s
profound impact on relationships.
Our lives have become an open book, shared with friends, family, and sometimes, the entire
world. This newfound transparency, while enhancing relationships in some ways, can also bring
its own set of challenges, as we’ll explore further in this article.
The impact of technology in relationships is a dynamic and evolving story, one that we must
explore with curiosity and adaptability as we delve deeper into the digital age.
Positive and Negative Impacts on Relationships
Positive Impacts
Enhanced Communication: Technology acts as a bridge that spans vast distances. It permits us
to stay connected with loved ones regardless of where they are situated. Video calls, instant
messaging, and social networks have revolutionized how we communicate. These tools make it
remarkably convenient for us to share our lives, feelings, and experiences with others. We can
engage in real-time conversations, see each other’s faces, and feel more closely connected,
even when separated by oceans or time zones. The impact of technology in relationships shines
most brightly in the realm of communication.
Sharing Experiences: Technology has bestowed upon us the power to capture and share our
lives in ways unimaginable just a few decades ago. With the touch of a screen, we can capture
and instantly share special moments, photos, and videos with those we hold dear. The result? A
profound sense of togetherness, even when we are physically apart. These shared experiences
become the threads that weave the tapestry of our relationships, creating lasting memories and
fostering emotional bonds that transcend the limitations of geography.
Access to Resources: It offers a treasure trove of resources to those seeking advice,
companionship, or support. Online platforms abound with relationship advice, dating apps, and
support groups, catering to individuals navigating the often-complex terrain of modern
relationships. This digital wealth of knowledge and community enables us to explore our
desires, connect with like-minded individuals, and seek the guidance needed to nurture
meaningful connections.
Negative Impacts
Reduced Face-to-Face Interaction: While we appreciate the good side of technology’s impact in
relationships, we should also recognize its possible downsides. Excessive use of technology,
when unchecked, may inadvertently lead to diminished face-to-face communication. This
reduction in direct, in-person interactions can affect the depth and quality of personal
relationships. The convenience of digital communication may sometimes deter us from
engaging with loved ones in the physical world, leading to a potential decline in our ability to
connect on a deeper, more personal level.
Trust Issues: The impact of technology in relationships can sometimes give rise to trust issues.
The constant connectivity facilitated by technology opens avenues for jealousy and insecurity.
Online activity, while often innocent, can be misconstrued as a breach of trust. These
misinterpretations can erode the foundations of a healthy relationship, leading to doubts and
insecurities that may not have existed in a less digitally interconnected world.
Digital Distractions: Devices that have become an integral part of our lives may inadvertently
divert our attention away from our partners. The alluring glow of screens, coupled with the
ceaseless stream of notifications, can captivate our focus to the detriment of our relationships.
These digital distractions, when left unaddressed, may lead to feelings of neglect and
dissatisfaction, creating barriers in our quest for meaningful connections with the ones we love.
Tips for Tech and Relationships
Set Boundaries
Establishing clear boundaries is essential to ensure that technology doesn’t overtake your
personal life. Consider creating “tech-free zones” in your home or dedicating certain times
where you both unplug from your devices. This can be during meals, while enjoying a quiet
evening, or simply during meaningful conversations. By setting these boundaries, you can focus
on each other without distractions and strengthen your bond.
Communicate Openly
Open and honest communication is the cornerstone of any healthy relationship, especially in the
context of the impact of technology in relationships. It’s important to discuss your feelings and
concerns regarding the role of technology in your relationship. Share how it makes you feel
when your partner is engrossed in their device during your quality time together, or if you’re
uncomfortable with certain online interactions. By addressing these concerns, you can better
understand each other’s perspectives and find mutually agreeable solutions.

Prioritize Face-to-Face Time

Make a conscious effort to prioritize face-to-face time with your partner. Whether it’s a casual
coffee date, a romantic dinner, or a weekend getaway, these moments are invaluable for
strengthening your bond. The warmth of physical presence and the depth of personal
connections experienced during in-person interactions are unparalleled.
Practice Digital Etiquette
Being mindful of your online behavior is crucial when considering the impact of technology in
relationships. Remember to respect your partner’s privacy, both online and offline. Avoid
invading their personal space or constantly checking their messages. Trust and mutual respect
are fundamental to a healthy relationship, and practicing digital etiquette ensures you maintain
trust in the digital world.
Misinformation and Communication
Misinformation has become a pressing concern in the digital age, significantly impacting how we
communicate, perceive information, and make decisions. This discussion aims to explore the
nature of misinformation, its sources, effects on society, and strategies for promoting accurate
information.
Misinformation refers to false or misleading information shared without harmful intent. In
contrast, disinformation involves deliberately spreading falsehoods to deceive others.
Understanding this distinction is crucial for analyzing the impact of misleading information on
communication.
Examples:
 Viral social media posts that misinterpret scientific studies.
 Incorrect information about public health measures during crises, such as the COVID-19
pandemic.
Sources of Misinformation
Misinformation can emerge from various platforms, including:
Social media: Algorithms prioritize sensational content, leading to the rapid spread of false
information.
News Outlets: Occasionally, reputable news sources may publish unverified information,
contributing to the confusion.
Word of Mouth: Rumors and anecdotes can distort facts as they are shared informally.
Impact of Misinformation on Society
Misinformation affects society in several ways:
Public Trust: Erosion of trust in institutions such as government, media, and scientific
organizations occurs when misinformation prevails.
Decision-Making: Individuals may make choices based on false information, impacting public
health (e.g., vaccine hesitancy) and elections.
Polarization: Misinformation can deepen societal divides by reinforcing existing biases and
creating echo chambers.
Personal Responsibility in Communication
As consumers of information, individuals play a critical role in combating misinformation:
Verification: Before sharing information, it is essential to verify its accuracy through credible
sources.
Critical Thinking: Encouraging a mindset of skepticism and inquiry helps individuals analyze
information critically.
Combating Misinformation
Several strategies can be implemented to address misinformation:
Social Media Policies: Platforms can develop and enforce guidelines to flag or remove false
content.
Fact-Checking Organizations: Independent organizations can verify information and provide
accurate context to counter misleading narratives.
Community Engagement: Encouraging dialogue within communities can help dispel myths and
foster an environment of trust.

Misinformation poses significant challenges to effective communication and informed decision-

making. By understanding its sources and impacts, promoting media literacy, and fostering
critical thinking, we can work together to create a more informed society. Engaging in open
discussions about misinformation encourages awareness and empowers individuals to navigate
the complex landscape of information responsibly.