Overview
This lecture explains the importance of understanding speech context and covers the four main types: intrapersonal, interpersonal, public, and mass communication, including their subtypes and examples.
Speech Context and Its Importance
- Speech context refers to the environment and circumstances—such as place, time, event, and attitudes—that influence communication.
- Context sets the environment for communication and helps determine the appropriate communication style.
- Communication can be affected by physical, social, chronological, or cultural contexts.
Types of Speech Context
- There are four main types of speech context: intrapersonal, interpersonal, public, and mass communication.
Intrapersonal Communication
- Intrapersonal communication is communication within oneself, using the mind as a channel.
- Examples include talking to oneself, journaling, daydreaming, and self-encouragement.
- This type develops self-awareness and self-confidence.
Interpersonal Communication
- Interpersonal communication is communication between two or more individuals, establishing personal relationships.
- Two main types: dyadic and small group communication.
- Dyadic communication is between two people (e.g., interviews, instructions, or conversations).
- Can be formal (interviews) or informal (talking with friends).
- Small group communication involves more than two people with open discussion (e.g., group projects, family discussions).
Public Communication
- Public communication occurs when a speaker addresses a large audience, often with no role exchange.
- Usually formal (prepared speech, stage, microphone) but can be informal (protest rallies, megaphone).
Mass Communication
- Mass communication uses media technology to reach large audiences.
- Includes radio, television, and now social media, webcasts, and podcasts.
- Allows both professionals and the general public to disseminate information widely.
Sample Situations and Their Speech Contexts
- Delivering a message as school president: public communication.
- Comforting a friend: interpersonal (dyadic) communication.
- Writing in a journal: intrapersonal communication.
- Group discussion for a project: small group communication.
- TV news anchor broadcasting news: mass communication.
Key Terms & Definitions
- Speech Context — The environment or situation surrounding communication.
- Intrapersonal Communication — Communication within oneself.
- Interpersonal Communication — Communication between people, includes dyadic and small group.
- Dyadic Communication — Communication between two individuals.
- Small Group Communication — Communication among more than two individuals.
- Public Communication — One speaker addressing a large audience.
- Mass Communication — Communication to a large audience via media technology.
Action Items / Next Steps
- Reflect on why it is important to know different types of speech contexts as a student.
- Complete assigned exercises identifying types of speech context in given scenarios.