Types+of+Communication

= Types of Communication and  When to Use Them:  =

**Written Communication** 'Communication by means of written symbols (either printed or handwritten). Webster's Dictionary. Written communication is a vital part of organisations. In the education sector, written communication is used for many reasons and is not limited to: teaching and learning (preparation and teaching of lessons), parent information (notes, forms, newsletters), staff meetings (agendas, information) and school policy documents. Why choose 'Written Communication'? It is a more appropriate means of communication for when:
 * You require a record of the communication for future reference.
 * You are communicating something with multiple parts or steps and it is important that they are understood.
 * You are unable to verbally communicate the information to all involved

**Oral Communication** 'Communication by word of mouth. (Webster's Dictionary) Oral communication, like written communication, is a vital part of any organisation. In the education sector, it is used commonly for teaching, personal discussions (with staff, students, parents, cleaners), presentations (professional development, information sessions, school assemblies), staff meetings, parent teacher interviews, telephone discussions, and in addition, informal conversations (lunch time discussions, before and after school conversations with parents, staff and students).

Why choose 'Oral Communication'?  <span style="display: block; font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: 120%;">It is a more appropriate means of communication for when:
 * <span style="display: block; font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: 120%;">The receiver is not very interested in getting the message, therefore oral communication can provide more opportunities for getting and keeping interest and attention.
 * <span style="display: block; font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: 120%;">Emotions are high - can allow parties to let off steam, cool down and create a means for understanding.
 * <span style="display: block; font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: 120%;">Feedback is required - this can be gained through asking questions, observing body language and discussion.
 * <span style="display: block; font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: 120%;">Information may not have been read.
 * <span style="display: block; font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: 120%;">A number of people need to know - allows everyone to have a say in discussion. This also allows for team building, as where possible everyone has a chance to have their say and be involved with what's going on.

**<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: 120%;">Body Language ** <span style="display: block; font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: 120%;">According to Webster's Dictionary, Body Language is '...an important part of communication, which can constitute 50% or more of what we are communicating.' <span style="display: block; font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: 120%;">Therefore to communicate effectively, we need to be aware of what our body may be saying while verbally communicating. <span style="display: block; font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: 120%;">To effectively communicate a message, the sender needs to be aware of the following:
 * <span style="display: block; font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: 120%;">Eye contact
 * <span style="display: block; font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: 120%;">Facial expressions
 * <span style="display: block; font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: 120%;">Gestures
 * <span style="display: block; font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: 120%;">Positive body orientation (not having arms crossed for example)
 * <span style="display: block; font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: 120%;">Proximity to the listener or the audience

For more information //'Introduction to the Link Between Leadership, Change Management and Communication by Bacal and Associates'//