Speech Communication Process

Overview

• The speech communication process is a model for understanding communication between individuals.
• It consists of seven key elements:
  • Speaker
  • Message
  • Channel
  • Listener
  • Feedback
  • Interference
  • Situation

Elements of Speech Communication

1. Speaker

• The person presenting the oral message.
• Speech effectiveness is influenced by:
  • Speaking style
  • Speaker credibility
  • Relevance of the speaker to the topic

2. Message

• The content communicated verbally and non-verbally.
• Influenced by:
  • Organization
  • Vocal and physical delivery
  • Ensuring nonverbal delivery complements the verbal message

3. Channel

• The medium through which the message is delivered (e.g., phone, face-to-face, digital platforms).
• Affects message interpretation, especially if nonverbal communication is limited.

4. Listener

• The recipient of the message.
• Interpretation is filtered through the listener’s frame of reference (knowledge, experience, goals, values, attitudes).
• Effective communication is audience-centered, focusing on topics important to the listener.

5. Feedback

• Nonverbal signals from the listener to the speaker.
• Influences the speaker’s delivery and message continuation.

6. Interference

• Any factor that impedes message communication.
• Types of Interference:
  • External (e.g., noise, environmental factors)
  • Internal (e.g., audience’s personal concerns)

7. Situation

• The context or environment where communication takes place.
• Audience expectations vary based on the situation (e.g., graduation ceremony vs. classroom lecture).

Ongoing Communication Process

• The speech communication process is continuous and bidirectional.
• Elements like speaker, channel, listener, and feedback are always active.
• Understanding this model helps to decode the meanings and effectiveness of communication in various contexts.