COMMUNICATION COMPONENTS AND TOOL
Arranged to fulfill the Assigment of Sociolinguistics
Supporting Lecturer : Dr. Sholihatul Hamidah Daulay, M. Hum
Arranged By :
Group 2
Alvindi 0304213071
Dimas 0304213057
Pardamean 0304213076
ENGLISH EDUCATION DEPARTEMENT
FACULTY OF TARBIYAH AND TEACHER TRAINING
ISLAMIC STATE UNIVERSITY OF NORTH SUMATERA
2024
PREFACE
ِبْس ِم ِهَّللا الَّرْح َمِن الَّرِح يم
Alhamdulillahirabbil’alamin, first of all, thanks to Allah SWT because of the
help of Allah, writers finished the paper entitled "Communication Components and
Tool”
The purpose in writing this paper is to fulfill the assignment that given by
Ma’am Dr. Solihatul Hamidah Daulay, [Link], as lecturer in Sociolinguistic subject.
In arranging this paper, the writers truly get lots challenges and obstructions but with
help of many individuals, those obstructions could pass. Writers also realized that
there are still many mistakes in process of writing this paper.
Because of that, the writers say thank you to all individuals who helps in the
process of writing this paper. Hopefully, Allah replies all helps and blesses you all.
The writers realized that this paper still imperfect in arrangement and the content.
Then, the writers hope the criticism from the readers can help the writers in perfecting
the next paper. Last but not the least, hopefully, this paper can helps the readers to
gain more knowledge about Sociolinguistics subject.
Medan, 15th March 2024
Group 2
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CONTENTS
Table of Contents
PREFACE...................................................................................................................................4
CONTENTS................................................................................................................................5
CHAPTER I................................................................................................................................6
INTRODUCTION........................................................................................................................6
A. Background of study.....................................................................................................6
B. Problem of study............................................................................................................8
C. Purpose of study............................................................................................................8
CHAPTER II...............................................................................................................................1
DISCUSSION.............................................................................................................................1
A. Communication Components..........................................................................................1
C. The Role of Language as Communication..................................................................8
D. Types of Communication Barriers:.............................................................................9
CHAPTER III............................................................................................................................12
CLOSING.................................................................................................................................12
A. Conclusion......................................................................................................................12
REFERENCES...........................................................................................................................13
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CHAPTER I
INTRODUCTION
A. Background of study
The most reliable and powerful communication tool in living together in a
society is language. Humans use language in their daily life. Language is very
important in all human life. If the minimum use of language can be understood
according to the intent and purpose of the speaker, then the language has achieved its
goal in conveying a message in communication. Under official conditions, all
conversations must follow certain patterns. In studying certain goals and objectives in
communicating both orally and in writing, the main context that speakers need to pay
attention to is that language goals can be achieved or achieve goals. Spoken language
or written language together and continuously is very influential on all human life.
Often spoken language, if heard by listeners, the meaning becomes biased, as well as
written language if it is read by someone, the meaning also becomes biased because
the reader does not understand what is implied and stated in the writing (Meinawati,
Harmoko, Rahmah, & Dewi 2020 ). In other words, the logic of thinking properly and
correctly can deviate from the true meaning of words or sentences that are built up in
the form and content of written or repeated speech from spoken language intended by
speakers and writers.
Language is a means of communication. Language is also a means to convey
opinions, and arguments to other parties. Therefore, language has an important social
role in communicating with the wider community (Adolf Hualai, 2017: 7 and Gorys
Keraf, 1994: 3). In the process of communicating, a communicator or communicant
requires language skills in order to understand the content of the conversation. They
owe it to language to dissect and distinguish every social problem in the process of
communicating. Language is always subject to its users. This is where the language
aspect plays a very important role in communication.
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Language and communication have a very close relationship. The relationship
between the two is reflected in the understanding of language according to linguistic
formulations and communication reviews, namely language as a communication tool
or medium used by humans in interacting with each other. On the other hand,
communication requires a medium, namely language. Noermanzah (2017: 2) explains
that language is a message that is usually conveyed in the form of expression as a
means of communication in certain [Link] to the Big Indonesian
Dictionary (KBBI), language is a system of arbitrary sound symbols used by a group
of people to work together, interact, and also to identify themselves. Judging from the
understanding in the dictionary, it can be understood that language can also function
as a symbol of sound as the notes are in the tone, but the functions or benefits
provided are very different between the two.
Communication is not only limited to verbal language, but there are some experts
who argue that when there are several people together in one place, communication
must occur. Even though we are not talking, this includes other forms of
communication that can be expressed through body language, facial expressions, and
non-linguistic voices (such as grumbling). Communication is the transfer of meaning
through sounds, signs, body language and symbols. Language is an orderly system of
symbols to transfer meaning. Thus, language is a communication change consisting
of a special symbol system conveyed by a group of people in the form of ideas and
information (Fridani, L 2014).
In communicating, humans tend to choose certain words to achieve their goals.
The choice of these words is strategic. Thus, the words spoken, the symbols given,
and the intonation of speech are not merely personal expressions or ways of
communicating, but are used intentionally for certain purposes. According to Chaer
(Diah & Wulandari, 2015), the function of language as a human communication tool
includes five basic functions, namely the function of expression, the function of
information, the function of exploration, the function of persuasion and the function
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of entertainment. Language also functions as a means of communication between
members of the community. These functions are used in various environments, levels,
and diverse interests, for example: scientific communication, business
communication, work communication, and social communication.
B. Problem of study
1. What are types of communication components ?
2. What is the role of language as a communication tool?
3. What are the challenges faced in communication ?
C. Purpose of study
1. To understand about the types of communication components
2. To understand about the role of language as communiction tool.
3. To understand about the challenges faced in communication
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CHAPTER II
DISCUSSION
A. Communication Components
Communication is a two-way process of exchanging information, ideas, or
feelings between two or more people. Several components work together to ensure
effective communication:
1. Sender
The communicator is the person who sends the message. The author can be an
individual, agency or organization with communication needs. When connected to
international communications, the coverage area is [Link] perpetrators can
be governments, businessmen, students or ordinary communities. The position of
media person representing the country may be held by the head of state (government)
or the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, often using private public relations services. In
general, the activities of state information agencies revolve around diplomatic
activities in the fields of politics, economics, defense and security. Communicator A
communicator is the person who sends the message. The author can be an individual,
agency or organization with communication needs. When connected to international
communications, the coverage area is transnational. The perpetrators can be
governments, businessmen, students or ordinary communities. The position of media
person representing the country may be held by the head of state (government) or the
Ministry of Foreign Affairs, often using private public relations services. In general,
the activities of state information agencies revolve around diplomatic activities in the
fields of politics, economics, defense and security.
2. Message
Basically, a message is an order, advice, request, authorization given by
intermediaries or media (Large Indonesian Language Dictionary 2nd edition;
Ministry of Education and Culture : 1996). For communication science, a message is
a set of symbols whose meaning is conveyed by the communicator (Effendy, 1995:
18). Furthermore, according to Effendy (1993: 6), a message is a statement supported
by a symbol, specifically a statement as a combination of thoughts and feelings,
which can be: Meaning ideas, information, complaints, beliefs, advice,
recommendations, etc. These statements are conveyed using symbols, often language.
However, there are also people who use other symbols, for example the movement of
body parts, images and colors. Because, the message is divided into two parts, which
are verbal and non-verbal messages. Verbal messages are messages conveyed by
spoken and written words, while nonverbal messages are messages conveyed by signs
or symbols that have certain meanings.
3. Channel
The media or channel is the path by which the message is sent from the
communicator (sender) to the communicator (receiver). Media There are many, from
traditional to modern. To name a few of them, namely kentongan, drumming,
performing arts, letters, bulletin boards, telephones, telegrams, brochures, posters,
banners, newspapers, magazines newspapers, movies, radio, television and the
Internet. Television and the Internet today have a strategic role and position to support
seamless international communication. In-depth media diplomacy perspectives are
often carried out in political meetings between state institutions and between heads of
state and government. Media From a journalistic point of view, it is often used in
propaganda activities aimed at weakening a country’s position and changing a
country’s policies. Ideological and civilizational clashes and clashes often occur in
this news media.
4. Receiver
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The communicator or recipient is the individual, agency, or organization that
translates (decodes) or provides an explanation of the message they receive.
Decoding is an internal process Communicating and understanding the
communicator’s behavior Expressing the communicator’s feelings and thoughts. In
the news media, the author of the information is known to the public. Public This is
the field where the seed (message) is spread. The seeds that germinate on this land
will depend greatly on the conditions of that land, including the influence of weather,
seasons as well as communication. The message sent by communicators, whether
mass media (institutionalized communicators), the state or external actors, will
depend greatly on the conditions of communication, including the cognitive system,
especially related to values and attitudes (public attitudes), beliefs, opinions (public
opinion), habits, factors Age, education level gender, social status, race and
geographical region.
5. Feedback
Then, after decoding the received message, communicate and give a
response. It concerns what the communicator does after receiving the message. The
answer can vary from minimum to maximum. Minimal response is the
communicator’s decision to ignore the message or do nothing after receiving the
message. On the contrary, the maximum possible response is immediate and open
communication. Communication is considered successful if the communicator’s
response is at least close to what the communicator created the desired message.
Minimum to maximum response. This also describes the quality of the message
created by the messenger and the effect it produces.
B. Communication Tool
Language is a tool that allows individuals to communicate with one another.
Mastering a language allows individuals to gain new information and insights into the
universe through science. Language, which is unique to humans, may be studied both
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inside and outside (Thomason and Kaufman, 1988: 22). In sociolinguistics,
communication tools are used to study the relationship between language and society.
communication tools refer to various mediums or methods individuals or groups use
to exchange linguistic information, express social identities, and negotiate meaning
within a specific social context. These tools are crucial for studying how language
functions in society, how it reflects social structures, and how it is influenced by
social factors. Here are some communication tools commonly analyzed in
sociolinguistics:
1. Face to Face Communication
Face-to-face communication refers to direct, in-person interaction between
individuals, where they can see, hear, and respond to each other in real time. This
type of communication is essential for building and maintaining personal
relationships, as it allows for the exchange of nonverbal cues, such as facial
expressions, body language, and tone of voice, which can convey emotions and
intentions more effectively than written or digital communication (Antos, Ventola,
Weber, 2008)
In sociolinguistics, face-to-face communication is studied using various tools and
techniques, such as discourse analysis, sociophonetics, and interactional
sociolinguistics, to understand how language is used in social contexts and how it
reflects and shapes social relationships and institutions (Clawson, Patel & Starner,
2010).
Here are Some of the important characteristics of face-to-face communication:
a) Nonverbal communication: This includes body language, facial expressions,
and tone of voice, which can convey emotions and intentions more effectively
than written or digital communication.
b) Interactional dynamics: This refers to the way individuals negotiate meaning
and maintain social relationships during face-to-face interactions, which can
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be influenced by factors such as power dynamics, social norms, and cultural
differences.
c) Social context: Face-to-face communication is influenced by the social
context in which it occurs, including factors such as group size, social roles,
and cultural norms.
2. Written Communication
In sociolinguistics, written communication plays a significant role in
understanding and analyzing language use and its social contexts. Sociolinguistics is
the scientific study of language in social contexts, emphasizing meaning, discourse,
and other characteristics of language. It involves investigating how language is used
in various social settings and how it reflects and shapes social structures and cultural
practices (Jenifer & Prabahar, 2023). Written communication is the transmission of
information, ideas, or messages using written language such as letters, emails, and
notes.
Written communication holds significant importance in human interaction for
various reasons: Firstly, it offers a durable and tangible record of information,
accessible for reference and utilization at any given time. In business settings, written
documents carry legal weight as binding agreements, ensuring clarity and security in
transactions. Written communication serves as a crucial means of conveying ideas,
disseminating knowledge, and transmitting information across vast distances and
diverse audiences. Without it, much of our history, culture, and scientific discoveries
would risk being lost or forgotten.
Various communication channels are utilized based on factors such as the recipient,
context, and type of information being conveyed (Judge & Robbins, 2009):
a) Letters, despite being less common in modern times, remain prevalent for
formal correspondence like sending invoices or legal notices.
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b) Email has become the standard mode of communication in business settings
due to its convenience and efficiency.
c) Books continue to serve as a reliable method of sharing in-depth information
on specific topics, despite the rise of electronic reading.
d) Instant messaging technologies like SMS and WhatsApp enable instantaneous
communication between individuals.
e) Social media platforms provide a forum for individuals to share their opinions
and perspectives with a global audience.
f) Websites, including blogs, newspapers, and other informative platforms, serve
as valuable resources for sharing information and facilitating communication.
3. Verbal Communication
Verbal communication refers to the use of spoken words to convey ideas,
information, and emotions between individuals or groups. It is a fundamental aspect
of human interaction and plays a crucial role in shaping and reflecting social
structures, cultural practices, and global processes. Verbal communication can be
enhanced through various means, such as shared knowledge and verbal
communication in team environments (Blaser & Seiler, 2019).
An example of verbal communication is a conversation between two
individuals discussing a topic of interest. This could be a dialogue between friends
discussing their day, a debate between colleagues discussing work-related issues, or a
conversation between a doctor and a patient discussing health concerns. Verbal
communication can also include formal speeches, lectures, or presentations where
one person shares information with a larger audience (Proniaieva & Fedchenko,
2021).
4. Non-Verbal Communication
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Non-verbal communication refers to the use of body language, facial
expressions, gestures, and other forms of non-spoken communication to convey
information or emotions. Examples of non-verbal communication include (Proniaieva
& Fedchenko, 2021) :
a) Facial expressions: A person may use facial expressions to express emotions,
such as smiling to indicate happiness or frowning to show disappointment.
b) Body language: A person's posture, movements, and gestures can convey
information or emotions without the use of words. For example, crossing arms
may indicate defensiveness or protecting oneself.
c) Eye contact: The amount and intensity of eye contact can convey interest,
attention, or even dominance.
d) Touch: Physical contact, such as a handshake or a pat on the back, can convey
support, encouragement, or even aggression.
e) Proximity: The distance between individuals can convey intimacy, comfort, or
even discomfort.
f) Voice: The tone, pitch, and volume of a person's voice can convey emotions,
such as anger, excitement, or sadness.
These forms of non-verbal communication often work in conjunction with verbal
communication to convey a complete message or to clarify the meaning of spoken
words.
5. Visual Communication
Visual communication refers to the use of visual elements, such as images,
graphics, and videos, to convey information or messages. It can be used in various
contexts, including advertising, education, and entertainment. Visual communication
can be enhanced through the use of advanced technology, such as virtual reality,
special effects, and animation, to create more engaging and effective visual
experiences (Liu, 2022).
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Examples of visual communication include:
a) Infographics: Visual representations of data and information, often using
charts, graphs, and illustrations to convey complex information in a clear and
concise manner
b) Logos and branding: Visual elements that represent a company or
organization, such as logos, color schemes, and typography, which help to
establish a brand identity
c) Advertisements: Visual elements used in advertising, such as images,
graphics, and videos, to promote products or services
d) Educational materials: Visual aids used in teaching, such as diagrams,
illustrations, and videos, to help students understand complex concepts
e) Visual art: Artworks that convey messages or emotions through visual
elements, such as paintings, sculptures, and installations
f) Visual communication can be a powerful tool for conveying information and
can be used to enhance the effectiveness of verbal communication in various
contexts.
C. The Role of Language as Communication
According to Gorys Keraf (1997:1), language serves as a communication
medium among community members through sound symbols produced by the speech
organs. While some may argue that language is not the sole means of communication,
citing agreed-upon methods such as paintings, smoke signals, or drum beats, it's
important to acknowledge that these alternatives often lack the efficiency of
language. Language fulfills various functions tailored to individual needs: it
facilitates self-expression, communication, social organization, adaptation, and social
control within different environments or circumstances (Keraf, 1997:3).
Here are presented the role of language as a communication tool:
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1) Language serves as a means for individuals to engage in interaction with others,
requiring the participation of two or more individuals engaged in conversation. This
emphasizes the exchange of feedback between speakers and their interlocutors.
2) Language proficiency often reflects an individual's level of education, with
educated individuals typically exhibiting better recall and higher speech proficiency.
This correlation stems from the tendency of well-educated individuals to engage in
interactions influenced by their residential, educational, and professional
environments, which support the use of refined language skills.
3) Proficiency in language can signify authority, particularly in leadership roles where
effective communication is essential for commanding respect and influencing
subordinates. A leader's ability to articulate ideas clearly and confidently enhances
their authoritative presence.
4) Language proficiency can function as a form of defense or negotiation tool,
enabling individuals to navigate legal or confrontational situations by effectively
expressing themselves. The ability to communicate skillfully can facilitate resolution
or evasion of issues addressed to an individual.
5) Effective language usage in advertising plays a crucial role in attracting customers
to products or services. Compelling and engaging advertisements employ language
that appeals to consumers, conveying the benefits and appeal of the advertised
product or service to potential buyers.
6) Language reflects a person's social status and allows them to contemplate their
place in society. The variety of languages one knows varies and is shaped by
environmental factors affecting language acquisition. Those proficient in multiple
languages and adept at communication are often perceived as privileged members of
society.
D. Types of Communication Barriers:
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Communication barriers can be broadly categorized into three main types:
1. Physical Barriers: These are environmental factors that make it difficult to
transmit or receive a message clearly. Examples include:
o Background noise (traffic, machinery)
o Distance between communicators
o Physical disabilities (hearing impairment, speech impediments)
2. Psychological Barriers: These are internal states that can cloud our judgment
and affect how we send or receive messages. Examples include:
o Emotions (anger, anxiety, fear)
o Cultural differences (values, beliefs, expectations)
o Lack of trust or respect
o Ego or defensiveness
3. Semantic Barriers: These are obstacles related to the way we construct and
interpret language. Examples include:
o Jargon or technical terms the listener might not understand
o Unclear or ambiguous language
o Cultural references unknown to the listener.
o Different interpretations of nonverbal cues (body language, facial
expressions)
Examples of Challenges in Communication:
Here are some everyday situations where communication barriers can arise:
1. Giving instructions to someone with a different cultural background
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2. Trying to have a conversation in a noisy restaurant
3. Delivering bad news to a colleague who might be defensive
4. Listening to a technical presentation filled with jargon
5. Misinterpreting a friend's sarcastic tone in a text message
Overcoming Communication Barriers:
By being aware of these challenges, we can take steps to improve our
communication skills. Here are some tips:
1. Clarity: Express yourself clearly and concisely, avoiding jargon and
ambiguity.
2. Active Listening: Pay close attention to the speaker, both verbally and
nonverbally.
3. Empathy: Try to understand the other person's perspective.
4. Feedback: Ask clarifying questions and encourage feedback to ensure your
message is understood.
5. Nonverbal Communication: Be mindful of your body language and facial
expressions, as they can complement or contradict your words.
By recognizing these barriers and actively working to overcome them, we can
improve our communication in all aspects of life.
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CHAPTER III
CLOSING
A. Conclusion
The study of communication components and tools delves into the building
blocks of effective communication. It examines the various elements that work
together to ensure a message is successfully transmitted and understood. By
understanding these components, you gain a deeper understanding of how
communication functions.
Effective communication relies on a combination of components and tools.
Understanding these components fosters clear and intentional message transmission,
while choosing the right tools facilitates the delivery and reception of the message.
By considering the context, audience, and purpose of communication, you can select
the most appropriate tools to bridge the gap between sender and receiver.
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