Communication Skills

Question 0

What are the linguistic and para-linguistic components of communication?

Answer 0

Linguistic - verbal - actual words used e.g. vocabulary, dialect, accent and pronunciation.

Para-linguistic - how words are said e.g. tone, speed and pauses.

Non-verbal - posture and appearance.

Question 1

Examples of noise

Answer 1

Environmental noise - other conversation, music and traffic.

Inherent in message - accent, quality of handwriting and ‘perceptual noise’ from the sender or receive.

Question 2

Barriers to good communication

Answer 2

Physical - speech difficulties, noise, poor sight, poor cognitive skills and deafness.

Emotional - perceptions, prejudice, fear, aggression and threat.

Question 3

Overcoming communication barriers

Answer 3

Active listening, empathy,professional knowledge and skills.

Question 4

How to know when someone has difficulty hearing you?

Answer 4

Failing to respond when addressed, looking very fixed,y, seeking visual information, responding inappropriately, nodding and smiling.

Question 5

How to overcome communication barriers

Answer 5

Take time, speak normally and slow down, be prepared to rephrase and write things down.