Communication
is essential in all business. It is important at all levels and in all
areas of organisations what ever they do and where ever they are. In this
course we look at some basic communication theory that you need to
understand to help you communicate more effectively.
Communication is a complex subject as we, as human beings, are complex,
our work tasks are complex and our world is becoming increasingly more
complex.
Communication
skill is an enabling factor that allows us to perform the work of the
organisation. It is essential for business success and as an individual,
you need to be an effective communicator for your future career.
In this course we
look at some communication models and some effects on and barriers to the
communication process. It is obviously important for us to understand how
these might arise, if we want to improve organisational effectiveness and
efficiency. We also consider how organisational structure affects the flow
of information required for co-ordination, decision-making and awareness.
The
term communication covers a vast field of study. There are many
books you can consult on specific skills such as report writing,
presentations, interviews, and body language. The aim of this course is to cover
basic concepts which will help you in the world of communication at work.
Course Content
Introduction
Objectives
Communication: Some Theories and Models
Introduction
What is
communication?
Purposes
of organisational communication
Communication and leadership
Verbal
and non-verbal communication
Five
models of communication
Perspectives of communication
Summary
Barriers to Communication
Introduction
Barriers
to communication
Message
ambiguity
Language
Distortion
Physical
noise and distance
Emotions
– fear, anxiety, mistrust, anger
Perceptions
First
impressions and frozen evaluations
Stereotyping
Polarization
Evaluate
too early and not listen
Summary
Formal and Informal Communication
Introduction
Formal
and informal communication
Vertical
communication
Network
patterns
Horizontal (lateral) communication
The
grapevine
Summary
Course
Summary
References
Tutor-marked Question Paper
