COMMUNICATION
- What is communication?
Communication is the act of exchanging thoughts, ideas and information through writing, speaking, signals, sounds, gestures and behaviour. We communicate when we explain something, persuade somebody or apologise for something, when we want to show our interest or fear and on many other occasions.
- What types of communication do you know?
Communication can be direct or indirect. We communicate directly when we are face to face, in real time and indirectly when we use various channels like telephones, letters, songs, pictures.. We don´t see each other and sometimes we don´t know each other.
- How did communication develop?
In the past people didn´t communicate in the same way as we do now. Our ancestors used different kinds of sounds, facial expressions, gestures and body posture to express their thoughts and messages. Later on, it was necessary to find other efficient ways of distributing messages and information. People started using pictures, signs and letters- which meant a significant progress in communication development.When Johann Guttenberg in the 15th century invented printing, written texts could spread easily, they could be stored for future generations and education could increase more. The inventions of the 20th century- radio, television, computers enabled mass communication among people. Mobile phones and emails enable fast communication on one hand but on the other hand it weakens oral communication and socialising.
- What is the difference between a written and oral communication?
Oral communication or speaking is a subconscious process which doesn´t require as much concentration as the written form does. Speakers and listeners interact in the same time, they can ask questions, give answers and find solutions quickly. When speaking we can use various gestures and intonation to emphasize our speech or to show our feelings.
Written communication is more time consuming, it requires much concentration. We have to think of grammar and stylistics but if we want to change our message it is possible until it is sent. We can´t use any gestures, so we have to express everything through words only.
- Compare the face to face communication to communication via the Internet.
Face to face communication includes gestures which means expressing feelings and sometimes these gestures can say more than words. When we communicate looking at each other we are usually more polite and honest than when we communicate via the Internet, especially when we don´t know the person on the other side.
- What does non-verbal communication include?
Non-verbal communication includes gestures, miming, posture, body movement, intonation, eye contact, clothing and many others. Non-verbal communication is very specific in different cultures. Some gestures can be offending or abusive in some countries while in others they can be quite usual. For example touching one´s head can be an expression of love in our culture but for Asians not while they consider human´s head a sacred part of body. Shaking hands is rare in Britain but usual in Slovakia, Germany, America. Eye contact is important in most countires in Europe but considered rude in some countires in Asia.
- Why do people learn foreign languages?
Learning a foreign language makes our life easier not only while travelling but also when we are studying or searching for some information on the Internet. The more languages we speak, the easier is our communication. It increases our self confidence and job qualifications.
- What are the best ways of learning a foreign language?
When someone learns a foreign language it is useful to start with simple expressions, basic grammar and vocabulary. Learners should try to speak as much as possible, listen to songs and native speakers. Then they can travel abroad and improve their language skills. Reading is also a good way of improving language skills because it enriches our vocabulary and improves our grammar.
- What is your favourite way of communication and why?
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- What ways of learning a foreign language do you prefer?
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