Foundations

1. Foundations • What is communication? • A dynamic, ongoing, transactional process • Whereby people create shared meaning • Through the sending and receiving of messages • Via socially shared codes • Key concepts • Speaker, message, channel, receiver, feedback, noise, context

2. Functions of Communication • Basic function is to achieve understanding or shared meaning. • Other functions: • Inform • Persuade • Entertain • Manage relationships

3. Goals of Communication • Clark & Delia’s three biggies: • Identity • Instrumental • Interpersonal

4. Conversation vs. Public Speaking • Key Differences • Public speaking: • is more highly structured • requires more formal language • requires a different method of delivery • Key Similarities • Similar goals (inform, persuade, entertain) • Similar skills (logic, tailoring message, storytelling, adapting to feedback)

5. Stage Fright • Be assured that it is completely normal! • Tips: • Think positively • Be at your best when you have to speak • Concentrate on sending your message rather than your nervousness • Take a few deep breaths before starting to speak • Pay special attention to your introduction • Make eye contact with audience members • Use well designed/chosen visual aids

6. Impromptu Speaking • Impromptu speeches are presented with little or no preparation. • 4 steps to organize your thoughts quickly: • State the point/question to which you are responding. • State the point you want to make. • Use whatever support you have (examples, statistics, or testimony). • Summarize your point.

7. Suggestions for Impromptus • Quickly jot down a brief outline. • Try to remain calm and assured. • Audience members cannot tell how nervous you are. • Making a speech is not a catastrophe. • Maintain strong eye contact with the audience. • Concentrate on speaking at a clear, deliberate pace. • Use signposts (“first”, “second”, etc. to help the audience track of your ideas).