Human communication has been defined as the process by which a human being interacting with others in order to share information, ideas, feelings, perceptions, and ideas, in order to form relationships or to communicate in a group, a social unit, or a community. Communication is thus the process by which people convey meanings from one group or entity to another via the use of uniquely understood symbols, signs, and semiotics.
Communication involves both verbal and non-verbal communication, in a single entity or context. Communication is also referred to as a ‘language‘. The term communication has a long history in Western culture, for it is often associated with language and with the interaction between human beings through the mediation of the spoken and written word, and the use of symbols.
There are several basic types of communication, but all communication involves the following three basic aspects: the communication of information (verbal), the communication of emotions (verbal and non-verbal) and the communication of ideas or concepts (non-verbal). Communication in a non-verbal and non-communicative environment is not only less significant but sometimes impossible. The purpose of this article is to highlight some of the most common types of communication. These three basic types of communication are used interchangeably with each other.
Communication is an evolving and ever-changing activity, in which there is constant communication and change in the course of the communication process. Communication requires a number of factors to be considered in order to achieve a smooth flow of information, and to facilitate communication between groups of people.
The first part of the communication process involves information. When communication takes place, information needs to be conveyed, otherwise it will become meaningless. A variety of sources can be used for communicating information, such as through writing, speech, sign language, gesture, facial expressions, body language and more. These sources need to be chosen according to the nature of the communication, and need to be chosen in a manner that is appropriate.
The second part of the communication process involves the exchange of information. Information cannot be communicated if it is misunderstood or misinterpreted, and it should be accurately conveyed.
The third and final aspect of the communication process involves the exchange of emotions. Emotion is also important when communication takes place, as it enables people to communicate to each other through communication and emotion, instead of through a more concrete form.
