Speech Communication Process

The speech communication process is a model that helps to understand the dynamics of verbal communication between individuals. It consists of seven key elements:

1. Speaker

• The speaker is the individual presenting the oral message.
• Factors affecting the speaker's message:
  • Speaking style
  • Speaker's credibility
  • Relevance to the topic

2. Message

• The content communicated by the speaker, both verbal and non-verbal.
• Influencing factors:
  • Organization
  • Vocal and physical delivery
  • Minimizing distraction from non-verbal cues

3. Channel

• The means through which the message is delivered (e.g., phone, face-to-face, digital platforms).
• The channel can alter message interpretation, especially if non-verbal cues are missing.

4. Listener

• The recipient of the message.
• Listeners filter messages through their personal frame of reference, which includes:
  • Knowledge
  • Experiences
  • Goals
  • Values
  • Attitudes
• Effective speeches are audience-centered, focusing on listener's interests.

5. Feedback

• Messages, often non-verbal, from the listener to the speaker.
• Feedback influences how the speaker continues their message delivery.

6. Interference

• Any obstacle that impedes message communication.
• Types:
  • External (e.g., noise, temperature)
  • Internal (e.g., listener’s personal issues)

7. Situation

• The context (time and place) in which communication happens.
• Audience expectations are based on the situation (e.g., graduation, classroom).

Conclusion

• The speech communication process is continuous and bidirectional.
• Understanding this process helps in decoding communication situations, the delivery style, and the reception by the audience.
• Each component is constantly interacting, influencing, and being influenced in the communication process.