Channel Factors in Speech Communication

Communication occurs through a channel or channels. The channel affects the communication according to how it is delivered and how it is received. Generally, a book has more credibility than television. More information can be communicated in a newspaper article than a television newscast. However, television has live pictures that make the communication more engaging. We can see the mother of the lost child crying and empathize with her, whereas the newspaper article describes the mother as Mary Doe, age 23, etc. The public speaking channel offers problems unique from other channels.

The biggest problem with speaking in a public situation is channel noise (discussed by Shannon). Channel noise comes in many forms. The room can be too cold or too hot. There can be a roomful of growling and aching stomaches close to lunch time. After lun ch, the audience may slip into a carbohydrate doze. There can be distractions such as noise, an attractive person of the opposite sex, obtrusive smells. You name it, channel noise will be present in one way or another. You job, as a speaker, is to overcom e it.

There are ways to do this. Make your message interesting. Use dynamics. Repeat your major points. Use visual aids. Speak loudly enough to be heard. Eliminate distracting mannerisms. Sometimes, you may want to engage your audience. See delivery in the discussion of message factors for more about distractions.

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