Overview
This lecture introduces the five main functions of communication and explains their importance in daily interactions, using clear examples and activities.
Recap: Communication Strategies
- Effective communication depends on context, audience, and adapting your style.
- Strategies to avoid breakdown: stay focused, listen actively, minimize distractions, be specific, and avoid jumping to conclusions.
- The 7 Cs of effective communication are completeness, conciseness, consideration, concreteness, courtesy, clearness, and correctness.
Functions of Communication
- There are five main functions: control/regulation, social interaction, motivation, information dissemination, and emotional expression.
Control and Regulation
- Used to influence or direct others’ behavior via instructions, requests, or commands.
- Examples: "Please clean your space" or "Turn right at the greenhouse."
Social Interaction
- Used to build relationships through greetings and casual conversations.
- Examples: "Good morning," "How are you?" or "Hey, what's up?"
Motivation
- Encourages or inspires people to improve or persevere.
- Examples: "You can do it, just believe in yourself," or "Always choose to be kind."
Information Dissemination
- Shares facts, announcements, or data for education.
- Examples: reporting news, giving class announcements, or sharing facts.
Emotional Expression
- Expresses feelings, emotions, or states of mind.
- Examples: apologies, excitement, or sharing disappointment.
Application Activities
- Recognize communication functions in sample situations (e.g., greetings = social interaction, news reporting = information dissemination).
- Match scenarios with the appropriate communication function (e.g., giving instructions = control, comforting someone = motivation).
Key Terms & Definitions
- Communication Strategies — Methods used to ensure clear, effective exchanges and prevent misunderstanding.
- 7 Cs of Communication — Principles for effective communication: completeness, conciseness, consideration, concreteness, courtesy, clearness, correctness.
- Functions of Communication — The five main purposes communication serves: control/regulation, social interaction, motivation, information dissemination, emotional expression.
Action Items / Next Steps
- Create a Facebook post on motivating others to become their better version using #thereminder.
- Prepare for the next lesson on verbal and non-verbal communication.