Noise has a special meaning in communication theory. It refers to anything that distorts the message, so that what is received is different from what is intended by the speaker. Whilst physical 'noise' (for example,
background sounds or a low-flying jet
plane) can interfere with communication, other factors are considered to be ‗noise‘. The use of complicated jargon, inappropriate body language, inattention, disinterest, and cultural differences can be considered 'noise' in the context of interpersonal communication. In other words, any distortions or inconsistencies that
occur during an attempt to communicate
can be seen as noise. Feedback Feedback consists of messages the receiver returns, which allows the sender to know how accurately the message has been received, as well as the receiver's reaction. The receiver may also respond to the unintentional message as well as the intentional message. Types of feedback range from direct verbal statements, for example "Say that again, I don't understand", to subtle facial expressions or changes
in posture that might indicate
to the sender that the receiver feels uncomfortable with the message. Feedback allows the sender to regulate, adapt or repeat the message in order to improve communication. Context All communication is influenced by the context in which it takes place. However, apart from looking at the situational context of where the
interaction takes place, for
example in a room, office, or perhaps outdoors, the social context also needs to be considered, for example the roles, responsibilities and relative status of the participants. The emotional climate and participants' expectations of the interaction will also affect the communication. Channel The channel refers to the physical means by which the message is transferred from one person to another. In a face-to-face context the channels
which are used are speech and vision
, however during a telephone conversation the channel is limited to speech alone. Uses of Interpersonal Communication Most of us engage in some form of interpersonal communication on a regular basis, often many times a day, how well we communicate with others is a measure of our interpersonal skills. Interpersonal communication is a key life skill and can be used to:
occur during an attempt to communicate
can be seen as noise. Feedback Feedback consists of messages the receiver returns, which allows the sender to know how accurately the message has been received, as well as the receiver's reaction. The receiver may also respond to the unintentional message as well as the intentional message. Types of feedback range from direct verbal statements, for example "Say that again, I don't understand", to subtle facial expressions or changes
in posture that might indicate
to the sender that the receiver feels uncomfortable with the message. Feedback allows the sender to regulate, adapt or repeat the message in order to improve communication. Context All communication is influenced by the context in which it takes place. However, apart from looking at the situational context of where the
interaction takes place, for
example in a room, office, or perhaps outdoors, the social context also needs to be considered, for example the roles, responsibilities and relative status of the participants. The emotional climate and participants' expectations of the interaction will also affect the communication. Channel The channel refers to the physical means by which the message is transferred from one person to another. In a face-to-face context the channels
which are used are speech and vision
, however during a telephone conversation the channel is limited to speech alone. Uses of Interpersonal Communication Most of us engage in some form of interpersonal communication on a regular basis, often many times a day, how well we communicate with others is a measure of our interpersonal skills. Interpersonal communication is a key life skill and can be used to: