UGC -NET JRF Paper 1, COMPLETE NOTES ON "UNIT- COMMUNICATION" (ONE SHOT REVISION)

UGC -NET JRF Paper 1

COMPLETE NOTES ON COMMUNICATION (ONE SHOT REVISION)

Communication:- Communication is the cornerstone of human interaction, enabling the exchange of ideas, emotions, and information. It can broadly be classified into verbal and non-verbal communication. Both types play a critical role in conveying messages effectively. 

1. Verbal Communication

Verbal communication involves the use of spoken or written words to convey messages. It can be further categorized into oral and written communication.

1.1 Oral Communication

This type of communication is characterized by the use of spoken words and includes face-to-face conversations, telephone calls, speeches, and video conferencing.

Advantages:

• Immediate feedback.
• Builds personal connections.
• Effective for resolving conflicts or clarifying misunderstandings.

Disadvantages:

• Misunderstandings due to tone or accent.
• Lack of a permanent record.

1.2 Written Communication

This involves the use of written symbols, such as letters, emails, reports, and social media posts, to share information.

Advantages:

• Provides a permanent record.
• Can be edited and revised for accuracy.
• Useful for complex or detailed information.

Disadvantages:

• Delayed feedback.
• Misinterpretation due to lack of tone or context.

2. Non-Verbal Communication

Non-verbal communication encompasses all forms of communication that do not use words. It involves the use of body language, facial expressions, gestures, and other non-verbal cues.

2.1 Kinesics (Body Language)

Kinesics refers to the use of physical movements to convey messages.

Examples:

• Posture: Standing upright conveys confidence.
• Gestures: Waving or pointing to emphasize points.

2.2 Proxemics (Use of Space)

Proxemics studies the use of personal space in communication.

Zones:

• Intimate (0-18 inches): Close relationships.
• Personal (18 inches-4 feet): Friends and acquaintances.
• Social (4-12 feet): Professional interactions.
• Public (12+ feet): Public speaking.

2.3 Haptics (Touch)

Haptics involves the use of touch as a means of communication.

Examples:

• A handshake signifies professionalism.
• A pat on the back shows encouragement.

2.4 Chronemics (Use of Time)

Chronemics explores how time affects communication.

Examples:

• Being punctual shows respect.
• Delays can indicate a lack of interest or disrespect.

2.5 Facial Expressions

Facial expressions are universal indicators of emotions, such as happiness, sadness, anger, or surprise.

2.6 Eye Contact

Eye contact plays a significant role in establishing trust and engagement in communication.

• Direct Eye Contact: Shows confidence and attentiveness.
• Avoiding Eye Contact: May indicate discomfort or dishonesty.

2.7 Paralanguage

Paralanguage involves the non-verbal elements of speech, such as tone, pitch, and volume.

Examples:

• A high-pitched tone may indicate excitement.
• A slow pace can convey seriousness or thoughtfulness.

2.8 Physical Appearance

The way an individual dresses and presents themselves can convey messages about their personality, status, or mood.

2.9 Artifacts

Artifacts refer to objects or accessories used to communicate.

Examples:

• Jewelry can symbolize wealth or tradition.
• A branded laptop signifies professionalism.

2.10 Simulations

Simulations involve imitating behaviors or actions to convey a message or teach a concept.

Examples:

• Role-playing in training sessions.
• Mimicking gestures to build rapport.

2.11 Chromatics

Chromatics studies the use of color in communication.

Examples:

• Red symbolizes passion or urgency.
• Blue often conveys calmness or trust.

2.12 Mimesics

Mimesics refers to communication through mimicry or imitation of behaviors.

Examples:

• Mirroring someone's body language to show empathy.
• Using gestures similar to a cultural group to build connections.

2.13 Semiotics

Semiotics is the study of signs and symbols in communication.

Examples:

• A red traffic light signals "stop."
• A heart symbol conveys love or affection.

2.14 Olfactics

Olfactics involves communication through the sense of smell.

Examples:

• Perfume or cologne to convey attractiveness.
• Specific smells in a workplace indicating cleanliness or warning.

2.15 Phonetics

Phonetics focuses on the sounds of speech and how they influence understanding.

Examples:

• Clear articulation improves comprehension.
• Accents can influence perceptions and interpretations.

Aristotle Model of Communication

• Speaker - Sender 
• Speech - Message 
• Occasion- Topic of speech 
• Audience - Receiver
• Effect - Impression

Key Components of the Aristotle Model

The model identifies three essential elements in the communication process:

Speaker (Ethos)
The person delivering the message is at the center of this model. The speaker's credibility, authority, and ability to present themselves convincingly influence the effectiveness of the communication.

• Ethos emphasizes the speaker's moral character and trustworthiness.

Message (Logos)
The content or information being delivered must be logical, clear, and structured to persuade or inform the audience.

• Logos focuses on reasoning, evidence, and logical arguments.

Audience (Pathos)
The receiver or listener is a crucial component, as communication must be tailored to their needs, emotions, and perspectives to achieve the desired effect.

• Pathos appeals to the emotions of the audience to create engagement and connection.

Linear Communication vs. Circular (or Cyclic) Communication

1. Linear Communication Model

The linear communication model is a one-way process that explains how messages are sent from a source to a receiver without any feedback. This model is foundational in communication studies and serves as the basis for understanding more complex systems.

Key Elements:

1. Sender (Source): The originator of the message who encodes the idea into a form suitable for transmission.

2. Encoding: The process of converting thoughts, ideas, or information into a symbolic form such as words, sounds, or gestures.

3. Message: The content or information that is being communicated.

4. Channel: The medium or pathway through which the message is transmitted (e.g., verbal speech, written text, digital platforms).

5. Receiver: The individual or audience that decodes the message to derive its meaning.

6. Decoding: The process by which the receiver interprets or understands the encoded message.

7. Noise: Any external or internal interference that distorts or hinders the communication process, such as physical noise, semantic noise, or psychological barriers.

Process Flow:

• The sender encodes a message and transmits it via a channel.
• The receiver decodes the message upon receiving it.
• Communication ends without feedback.

Examples:

• Television and radio broadcasts.
• Public announcements where interaction is not expected.
• Print media like newspapers or posters.

Strengths:

• Simple and straightforward, suitable for mass communication.
• Useful for delivering messages where feedback is unnecessary or impractical.

Limitations:

• Does not account for the receiver’s feedback or response.
• Assumes the receiver is passive and does not interact with the message.
• Ignores dynamic factors like noise, interpretation errors, or context.

Applications:

• Ideal for one-way communication like propaganda, advertising, and instructional media.

2. Circular (or Cyclic) Communication Model (Transactional Model)

The circular communication model emphasizes the interactive nature of communication, highlighting the role of feedback and the dynamic interchange between participants. This model represents communication as a continuous and iterative process.

Key Elements:

1. Sender (Encoder): The person or entity initiating the communication by encoding the message.

2. Message: The information, idea, or emotion that is being conveyed.

3. Channel: The medium through which the encoded message is sent.

4. Receiver (Decoder): The individual or group interpreting the encoded message.

5. Decoding: The process through which the receiver interprets and derives meaning from the message.

6. Feedback: The receiver’s response or reaction to the message, which is sent back to the sender, closing the loop

7. Noise: Internal or external interferences that disrupt the communication process. This includes:

• Physical Noise: Environmental distractions like loud sounds.
• Semantic Noise: Misunderstanding caused by complex or ambiguous language (jargon).
• Psychological Noise: Emotional or mental distractions like stress or bias.

   8. Context: The situational, cultural, or social environment influencing      communication.

Process Flow:

• The sender encodes and transmits a message through a channel.
• The receiver decodes the message and provides feedback.
• Feedback is sent back to the sender, who interprets and responds, continuing the cycle.

Examples:

• Face-to-face conversations.
• Email or text exchanges where responses are expected.
• Customer service interactions.

Cole and Chan Model of communication

The Cole and Chan Model of communication is a framework that outlines the process of communication in a structured manner. Here are the key aspects and points of this model:

1. Formulation of Message

• Idea Generation: The process begins with the formulation of an idea or message that the sender wants to communicate.
• Purpose: The message is created with a specific purpose or motive in mind, such as informing, persuading, or entertaining the receiver.

2. Message Encoding

• Encoding: The sender encodes the message into a form that can be transmitted. This involves converting the idea into symbols, words, or gestures that convey the intended meaning.
• Skills and Knowledge: Effective encoding depends on the sender's communication skills, knowledge, and attitude.

3. Message Transmission

• Channel Selection: The sender chooses an appropriate medium or channel to transmit the message (e.g., spoken words, written text, visual aids).
• Transmission: The encoded message is sent through the chosen channel to reach the receiver.

4. Message Decoding and Interpretation

• Decoding: The receiver decodes the message by interpreting the symbols, words, or gestures used by the sender.
• Understanding: The receiver processes the message to understand its meaning, which may be influenced by their own knowledge, experiences, and perceptions.

5. Feedback and Evaluation

• Feedback: The receiver responds to the message, providing feedback to the sender. This can be verbal or non-verbal and helps the sender know if the message was understood correctly.
• Evaluation: Both the sender and receiver evaluate the effectiveness of the communication process and make adjustments if necessary.

Key Points:

• Two-way Process: Communication is a dynamic, two-way process involving both sending and receiving messages.
• Context: The context in which communication occurs can affect the interpretation and effectiveness of the message.
• Relationship: The relationship between the sender and receiver can influence the communication process.
• Symmetry and Complementarity: Effective communication requires a balance between the sender's and receiver's roles, with each complementing the other's efforts.

Types of Communication

1. Based on Mode/Medium

a) Verbal Communication

• Oral Communication: Spoken words, either face-to-face or through devices (e.g., conversations, meetings, phone calls).
• Written Communication: Use of written words through letters, emails, reports, books, or text messages.

b) Non-Verbal Communication

• Body Language: Gestures, postures, and facial expressions.
• Paralinguistics: Tone, pitch, and volume of voice.
• Proxemics: Use of space or physical distance.
• Haptics: Communication through touch.
• Eye Contact: Conveying emotions or emphasis through eye movements.
• Appearance: Clothing and grooming as a means of communication.

c) Visual Communication

• Use of visual aids such as charts, graphs, infographics, and videos to convey information.

2. Based on Context

a) Intrapersonal Communication

• Communication within oneself (e.g., self-reflection, inner dialogue).

b) Interpersonal Communication

• Direct communication between two or more individuals. It includes:
  • One-to-One Communication: A private conversation between two people.
  • Group Communication: Interaction among multiple individuals (e.g., group discussions).

c) Organizational Communication

• Occurs within or between organizations. It can be:
  • Internal: Among employees within an organization (e.g., memos, meetings).
  • External: Between the organization and external entities (e.g., press releases).

d) Public Communication

• When a speaker addresses a large audience (e.g., speeches, public lectures).

e) Mass Communication

• Dissemination of information to large audiences through mass media like television, radio, newspapers, and the internet.

3. Based on Purpose

a) Formal Communication

• Structured communication within an organization or official setting. It follows predefined channels and rules (e.g., official memos, reports, or formal meetings).

b) Informal Communication

• Casual or unofficial interaction without predefined rules (e.g., chit-chat among friends or colleagues).
• Grapevine Communication: Informal, unofficial communication spread within an organization, often through gossip or casual discussions.

Types of Grapevine Communication:

• Single Strand: Information passes from one person to another sequentially.
• Gossip Chain: One individual shares information with many others.
• Cluster Chain: Selected individuals pass on information to others.
• Probability Chain: Information spreads randomly.

4. Based on Direction/Flow

a) Upward Communication

• Information flows from subordinates to superiors (e.g., employee feedback to a manager).

b) Downward Communication

• Information flows from superiors to subordinates (e.g., instructions or policies).

c) Horizontal Communication

• Interaction between peers or colleagues at the same organizational level.

d) Diagonal Communication

• Cross-departmental interaction between individuals at different levels of hierarchy (e.g., a manager communicating with a junior from another department).

5. Based on Channels

a) Synchronous Communication

• Real-time communication where participants interact simultaneously (e.g., phone calls, video conferences).

b) Asynchronous Communication

• Delayed communication where participants respond at different times (e.g., emails, recorded messages).

6. Based on Technology

a) Face-to-Face Communication

• Direct physical interaction without technological mediation.

b) Mediated Communication

• Communication through technology:
• Digital Communication: Interaction via digital platforms (e.g., social media, instant messaging).
• Analog Communication: Using traditional media (e.g., printed letters, analog telephones).

Note :-  Important vocabulary related to types of communication 

1. Didactic communication is a type of communication aimed at teaching or instructing. It's often clear, structured, and focused on delivering educational content. Commonly used in lectures and educational materials, its main goal is to impart knowledge or skills.

Shannon-Weaver Model of Communication

The Shannon-Weaver Model of Communication, also known as the Linear Model of Communication, is a foundational framework in communication theory developed by Claude Shannon and Warren Weaver in 1948.

• Information Source: The originator of the message, also known as the sender or encoder. In telecommunication, this could be an individual or an organization initiating the communication, such as a call center agent or a broadcasting company.
• Transmitter: The mechanism that converts the message into a signal suitable for transmission. In telecommunication, this is often a telephone, radio transmitter, or computer device that encodes the message into electronic signals.
• Channel: The medium through which the signal travels from the transmitter to the receiver. In telecommunication, common channels include telephone lines, radio waves, fiber optic cables, and satellite links.
• Noise: Any interference that might distort or hinder the message during transmission. In telecommunication, noise can be physical (e.g., static on a phone line), technical (e.g., signal degradation), or digital (e.g., data corruption).
• Receiver: The mechanism that converts the signal back into a message, interpreting and decoding the information. This is the person or device receiving the communication, such as a telephone handset, radio, or computer.
• Destination: The intended recipient of the message, who should ideally understand and respond to the message. In telecommunication, this could be an individual on a phone call, a radio listener, or an end-user of an internet service.

Key Vocabulary for UGC NET Paper 1 Exam

• Sender: The originator of the message.
• Encoder: The process of converting information into a signal.
• Message: The information or content being communicated.
• Channel: The medium through which the message is transmitted.
• Receiver: The entity that receives and decodes the message.
• Decoder: The process of converting the signal back into information.
• Noise: Any interference that affects the clarity of the message.
• Feedback: The response from the receiver back to the sender, though not included in the original model, it's often discussed in communication theory.
• Transmission: The act of sending the message through the channel.
• Destination: The final recipient of the message.
• Telecommunication: The transmission of information over significant distances by electronic means.
• Entropy: Entropy refers to the measure of uncertainty or unpredictability in a message. It represents the amount of information or the level of surprise associated with the message content (H=−∑ipilog⁡2pi)
• Redundancy: Redundancy refers to the repetition or inclusion of additional information in a message to ensure its accurate reception despite potential noise or interference.

Berlo's SMCR Model of Communication

SMCR stands for Source, Message, Channel, and Receiver. Here’s a breakdown of each component, including the additional element of context:

Source (S)

• Definition: The originator of the message. It could be an individual or an organization.

Key Elements:

• Communication Skills: The ability of the source to effectively convey the message.
• Attitudes: The source's attitude towards the message, the receiver, and themselves.
• Knowledge: The source's understanding of the topic being communicated.
• Social System: The source's social and cultural background.
• Culture: The influence of the source's culture on communication.

Message (M)

Definition: The content that is being communicated. It includes information, ideas, or feelings.

Key Elements:

• Content: The actual information in the message.
• Elements: The words, gestures, symbols, and codes used in the message.
• Treatment: The way the message is packaged and delivered.
• Structure: The organization and arrangement of the content.
• Code: The language or symbols used to convey the message.

Channel (C)

Definition: The medium through which the message is transmitted from the source to the receiver.

Key Elements:

• Hearing: The use of auditory channels.
• Seeing: The use of visual channels.
• Touching: The use of tactile channels.
• Smelling: The use of olfactory channels.
• Tasting: The use of gustatory channels.

Receiver (R)

Definition: The individual or group for whom the message is intended.

Key Elements:

• Communication Skills: The ability of the receiver to understand the message.
• Attitudes: The receiver's attitude towards the message, the source, and themselves.
• Knowledge: The receiver's understanding of the topic being communicated.
• Social System: The receiver's social and cultural background.
• Culture: The influence of the receiver's culture on communication.

Context

Definition: The environment or situation in which communication takes place. It includes all the factors that influence the communication process.

Key Elements:

• Physical Context: The location, time, and environmental conditions.
• Social Context: The relationships and social roles of the participants.
• Cultural Context: The cultural norms, values, and expectations that shape communication.
• Psychological Context: The mental state and emotions of the participants.
• Historical Context: The background and previous interactions between the participants.

Key Points 

• Linear Model: Berlo's model is a linear model, which means it follows a straightforward path from the source to the receiver.
• Focus on Elements: The model emphasizes the importance of various elements such as communication skills, attitudes, knowledge, social system, and culture in both the source and the receiver.
• Channels of Communication: It highlights the different sensory channels through which communication can occur.
• No Feedback: Unlike some other models, Berlo's SMCR model does not explicitly include feedback, making it a one-way communication model.
• Context: The inclusion of context helps in understanding the external factors that influence communication.

Communication Barriers

Communication barriers can hinder the exchange of information between individuals or groups. Here are some common types of communication barriers:

1. Language Barriers

• Different Languages: When people speak different languages, it becomes difficult to communicate.
• Jargon or Technical Terms: Using specialized language that others might not understand, which can create confusion. For example, technical jargon in the IT industry can be incomprehensible to those outside the field.
• Accents and Dialects: Variations in pronunciation and regional language differences.

2. Psychological Barriers

• Emotional State: Stress, anger, or sadness can affect how we communicate and interpret messages.
• Prejudices and Biases: Preconceived notions about people or topics can cloud judgment and understanding.
• Selective Perception: Tendency to hear what we want to hear, ignoring information that doesn't align with our beliefs.

3. Physical Barriers

• Distance: Long distances can make communication challenging, especially without proper technology.
• Noise: Background noise can interfere with hearing and understanding messages.
• Physical Environment: Poor lighting, uncomfortable seating, and other environmental factors can distract from communication.

4. Cultural Barriers

• Cultural Differences: Different cultural norms and values can lead to misunderstandings.
• Non-verbal Communication: Gestures, body language, and eye contact vary widely between cultures.
• Ethnocentrism: Belief that one's own culture is superior to others, leading to misinterpretation of messages.

5. Organizational Barriers

• Hierarchy: Rigid structures can hinder free flow of information within organizations.
• Lack of Feedback: Without feedback, communicators may not know if their message was understood.
• Information Overload: Too much information at once can overwhelm recipients, leading to miscommunication.

6. Interpersonal Barriers

• Personal Relationships: Relationships affect communication; conflicts or power dynamics can create barriers.
• Personality Differences: Variations in personalities can lead to misunderstandings or clashes.
• Trust Issues: Lack of trust between communicators can result in guarded and ineffective communication.

7. Technological Barriers

• Inadequate Technology: Poor-quality communication tools can hinder effective communication.
• Digital Divide: Access to technology varies, affecting the ability to communicate, especially in remote areas.

8. Explicit Barriers

• Direct Statements: Clear refusals or denials that block communication. For example, saying "I don't want to talk about this" explicitly stops further discussion.
• Rigid Policies: Organizational rules that explicitly limit or prohibit certain types of communication.

9. Implicit Barriers

• Unspoken Assumptions: Assumptions that are not communicated explicitly but influence interactions. For example, assuming someone understands certain jargon without confirming can create misunderstandings.
• Non-verbal Cues: Body language or facial expressions that suggest disinterest or opposition without being verbally expressed.

Hot Media and Cool Media

Hot Media

• High Definition: Hot media are high-definition, meaning they provide a lot of information or sensory input. They require less audience engagement to understand the message.
• Low Audience Participation: Due to their richness in detail, hot media demand minimal effort from the audience. The audience passively receives the message.
• Single-Sense Engagement: These media often engage one sense intensely (e.g., sight or sound).

Examples:

• Radio: Provides detailed auditory information, engaging the listener's sense of hearing.
• Film: Offers detailed visual and auditory information, creating a strong sensory experience.
• Printed Books: Deliver comprehensive information through text, engaging the reader's sight and cognitive faculties.
• Strong Immediacy: Hot media tend to make a powerful, immediate impression on the audience due to their high level of detail and sensory engagement.

Cool Media

• Low Definition: Cool media are low-definition, providing less detailed information. They require higher audience engagement to fill in gaps and comprehend the message.
• High Audience Participation: The audience needs to actively engage with cool media to interpret and understand the content.
• Multiple-Sense Engagement: These media often engage multiple senses but in a less intense manner.

Examples:

• Telephone: Requires active listening and interpretation, as auditory information is less detailed compared to face-to-face communication.
• Television: Provides visual and auditory information but often relies on the viewer to interpret and engage with the content.
• Cartoons: Offer simplified visual information, encouraging the audience to use imagination and context to fill in details.
• Collaborative Experience: Cool media promote a more participatory experience, inviting the audience to actively contribute to the understanding of the message.

Comparison

• Detail Level: Hot media are high-definition with rich detail, while cool media are low-definition with less detail.
• Audience Engagement: Hot media require low audience participation, whereas cool media require high audience participation.
• Sensory Involvement: Hot media often engage one sense intensely, while cool media engage multiple senses more subtly.

Impact on Communication

• Hot Media: Tend to create a strong, immediate impression and often dominate the audience's senses.
• Cool Media: Foster a more collaborative and participatory experience, encouraging active engagement and interpretation.

Static Questions from Communication unit:- 

• Who proposed the Transactional Model of Communication?

Answer: Dean Barnlund

• In which year was Shannon and Weaver’s Mathematical Model of Communication introduced?

Answer: 1948

• What is the full form of the acronym SMCR in communication models?

Answer: Source-Message-Channel-Receiver

• Who is known as the "Father of Modern Linguistics"?

Answer: Noam Chomsk

• What are the seven elements of communication identified by Aristotle?

Answer: Speaker, Speech, Occasion, Audience, Effect, Means of Persuasion, and Subject

• In Berlo’s SMCR Model, what does 'S' stand for?

Answer: Source

• Who introduced the concept of 'Gatekeeping' in mass communication?

Answer: Kurt Lewin

• In which year was the term 'Mass Communication' first coined?

Answer: 1920s

• Who developed the Hypodermic Needle Theory?

Answer: Harold Lasswell

• Which Indian scholar is known for their significant contributions to the study of media effects?

Answer: Prof. Arvind Singha

• When and by whom was the first newspaper published?

Answer: The first newspaper published in India was Hicky's Bengal Gazette, also known as the Original Calcutta General Advertiser. It was published by James Augustus Hicky in 1780 in Calcutta (now Kolkata)

• who invented printing press and when?

Answer: The printing press was invented by Johannes Gutenberg around 1440 in Mainz, Germany

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