Introduction to Creative Communication Blog

Hello and welcome to my blog about Creative Communication!

I hope that you find this blog helpful and informative in the whole arena of communication. This blog was created to fulfill the requirements for the final assignment for my Creative Communication class in college, but I hope that it will also be helpful to people who stumble across it in cyberspace!


This blog will include a basic overview of the communication process, the various aspects of communication, ways in which we communicate with one another, situations where communication occurs (interpersonal, public, organizational) as well as other helpful information about communication.


This blog is written from the perspective of someone who is either a Christian layperson or someone involved in full-time ministry; so much of the content will refer directly to this context. Other readers will still find the information useful though I imagine!

DNA Model of Communication

Each and every conversation or type of communication that occurs between people can be broken down into standardized and universal parts. These elements of communication make up basic communication theory. Any individual who is seeking to become a more effective and clear communicator should learn all they can about these basic elements of communication and constantly be aware of them in their conversations and communication.

I have created a model for a previous assignment that outlines these basic elements of communication theory. I have titled this model the "DNA Model of Communication" and it can be viewed below. Following the image is a detailed description of the various aspects that are illustrated in the model.

Please click on this image in order to view it clearly

Source/Receiver:

The two strands of DNA in this model represent the two people who are communicating with one another. Since communication is almost always multi-directional, both individuals are at the same time the source and the receiver. The source refers to the person with whom the communication is originating and the receiver refers to the person who is hearing the communication. In the case of a conversation, both individuals are originating communication and receiving communication.

Encoding/Decoding:

The various items between the two strands of DNA represent all aspects of communication that is occurring between the source/receivers. First of all, there is the process of encoding and decoding. This process is very important to be aware of because it aids in understanding how messages are interpreted and understood by the other person. Encoding is the process by which the source puts the message or information that they want to communicate into words, the source chooses the words that they feel best communicate their message. Decoding is the process by which the receiver hears the message that the source has communicated and breaks down the message into parts that are logical for them to understand. In effective and clear communication, the encoding and decoding processes should mirror each other so that the message that the source is communicating is clearly heard and understood by the receiver. Unfortunately, this is often not the case. The way that an individual encodes and decodes a message depends on many factors, and each person will encode and decode slightly differently from everyone else. Especially when it comes to communication across genders, ages, languages, classes or people groups, the process of encoding and decoding can often lead to miscommunication or misunderstanding.

Noise:

The interference in the encoding/decoding process is referred to as noise. Noise can take on a number of different forms and examples will be given in a later post. Some possible sources of noise come from an individual's culture, family background, education, and language. Noise can also be external physical noise that prevent the message from being heard properly. Other sources of noise are psychological and spiritual. Especially when it comes to communicating the Gospel, spiritual noise is present that will attempt to prevent the message from being received.

Messages:

In addition to the encoding/decoding verbal process of communication, there is other communication that is occurring between the two individuals; this communication is referred to as messages. Messages are all of the non-verbal communication that is occurring. This can include gestures, body language, tone, eye contact etc. When communicating, it is important to be aware that only a small percentage of what you are communicating with another person is verbal. Awareness of the way you are communicating non-verbally will allow you to become a better, more clear communicator.

Context:
The physical context where communication is taking place also plays a role in the communication process. Some communication is only appropriate to occur in certain settings. For example, sensitive personal information should only be discussed in a private setting where the individuals feel comfortable and at ease. Context also matters for evangelistic communication. Sometimes it is important to speak to people 'on their turf', while at other times it is better to remove people from their situations and/or peers in order to better communicate with them. Again, when it comes to communication it is important to be aware of the context in which communication is taking place to make sure that the context will not hinder communication in any way.

Competence:
During communication it is also important to ask yourself whether or not the other person is understanding what you are saying. If competence is not being attained, it is important to alter what you are saying in order to be understood. Competence might be an issue when you are speaking to someone who has a different first language from you or when you are speaking to someone who is younger or not as educated as you. When it comes to communicating the message of Christianity, competence can become an issue if you are using too much Christian language or phrases.

Feedback:
When it comes to communication, feedback is in a sense the last and most important step. This step is where you make sure the other person has understood you. Feedback may involve asking questions to gauge competence, asking for a response, or any other method whereby you ascertain if your message has been properly received. Communication generally demands a response and so that fits under this label.

Other Models of Communication:

Examples of encoding and decoding gone wrong (Miscommunication and Noise)

In this picture you can see an example of what happens when miscommunication occurs due to the use of unclear gestures. When you are communicating it is important that your body language and mannerisms enhance what you are saying rather than detracting from it. Since such a large percentage of communication occurs non-verbally, being aware of what you are saying with your body, eyes, tone etc. is very important. In this cartoon the girl at the front of the class believes she is communicating one message (flower), but everyone in the class is decoding a different message from her actions. Imagine this happening when you make a gesture as you deliver a sermon or speech to a large group of people! Gestures are an important part of communication and shouldn't be completely abandoned, but sensitivity to the nature of the message they are communicating is imperative lest you become like this poor girl!

The following is a short movie that depicts another example of miscommunication. This time the misunderstanding occurs because of a language barrier. This is a humorous example of misunderstanding but sometimes misunderstandings can be very serious problems. If you are desiring to communicate clearly, it is important that you enunciate your words well so that everyone can understand you!

This is another short video showing a humorous account of an attempt to communicate clearly that isn't going very well! Again, the importance of clear speech is emphasized.

This is a final cartoon to drive the point home of the importance of clear communication. Think back to the communication DNA model from the previous post and keep in mind all of the aspects of communication that must be kept in mind in order for communication to be effective.

Interpersonal Communication

The field of interpersonal communication covers all communication you have with - you guessed it - other people! This communication may be among friends, family, co-workers, strangers, etc. Interpersonal communication is what sets human beings apart from the animals. Interpersonal communication is a powerful tool and while everyone can communicate naturally, certain skills can be developed in order to be an effective interpersonal communicator. Again, it is worthwhile to refer back to the basics of communication theory and to keep these things in mind as you set out to communicate.

In any relationship, there are stages of intimacy, moving gradually from impersonal to personal. I have created a diagram to show these stages. Communication will look different depending on where you are along the intimacy diagram.

In ministry, there are both risks and benefits associated with interpersonal communication, especially as you move towards greater intimacy (the 'hang out' stage) with people. Some benefits of interpersonal communication is that it allows you to minister and connect with people on a deeper level. Intimacy means that you will know people more fully and honestly and this will facilitate a greater ability for accountability, healing, pastoral counsel and other ministry. Deep interpersonal relationships also allow you as a minister to be real and vulnerable with people rather than always needing to maintain a professional front. One needs to look no further than Jesus for an example of the benefits of intimate interpersonal relationships. His disciples provided companionship to Jesus during his earthly ministry.

On the other hand, one doesn't have to look any farther than Jesus for examples of the risks of intimate interpersonal relationships. Greater intimacy equals a greater capacity to be hurt and betrayed. The people who we love the most are often the people we hurt the most. Another risk associated with deeper interpersonal relationships is that it can make it difficult in a church or ministry setting to make objective decisions and to continue to be the clear leader. Whether it is desired or not, leaders are always set apart from the people they lead and this line becomes blurred when intimacy is great.

As previously stated, interpersonal communication will look different depending on the level of intimacy you have with a person. Regardless of what level of intimacy you have though, it is important to communicate clearly and effectively. In terms of ministry, relationship boundaries must be clearly communicated to others so as to maintain professionalism and purity.

Interpersonal relationships enrich our lives daily. While there are risks involved in communicating and getting close to people, the rewards are far greater!

These boys have clearly learned the power of

interpersonal relationships!

As we grow in intimacy with others, the importance of communication grows!

Public Communication

In addition to Interpersonal Communication, another aspect of communication that ministers need to be well versed in is Public Communication. Public Communication encompasses any situation where an individual is speaking publicly to a group of people. This might be delivering a sermon on a Sunday morning, giving a toast at a wedding, or presenting material at a conference.

When it comes to public speaking, both what you say and how you say it are very important. Your message should be clear, to the point, and interesting. You also must make sure that you speak clearly, loudly, and slowly. When it comes to non verbal communication, it is important that your gestures are appropriate and enhance what you are saying rather than detracting from it. Messages should have a good balance of points, back-up for the points, and illustrations. An excellent framework for public communication can be found in Ken Davis' book "Secrets of Dynamic Communication", where he presents the SCORRE method of preparing messages. This method ensures that your message is on topic, concise and that it communicates clearly. Information about this book can be found in the bibliography at the end of this blog.

Below is a sample video of me presenting a message using the SCORRE method. I apologize for the poor quality of the video, we were in a loud church hall! This video was used in a personal analysis of my public communication skills and I learned a lot about both my strengths and my weaknesses as a public speaker. I have also included a manuscript for this message that clearly shows the SCORRE method in action.




The text for this devotional can be viewed at:
http://docs.google.com/View?docid=dfq8sphs_0cmvdvz

Organizational Communication

The third and final kind of communication that will be discussed in this blog is organizational communication. Organizational communication refers to all of the physical items that communicate a message relating to an organization. A sample of these items is depicted in the above collage - things like answering machines, web pages, church signs, letterheads, bulletins, and PowerPoint presentations could all be considered pieces of organizational communication.

It is important to take into consideration what each piece of media from your organization is communicating to others. The quality, positioning, availability, and wording will all play a role in how other people view your organization. Churches especially need to make sure that their organizational communication supports and lines up with their mission and vision. Take the church sign above for example - I'm fairly sure that the message the church is trying to communicate is not coming across clearly.

Here are some examples of communication in church bulletins that comes across differently than it was intended:

• Scouts are saving aluminum cans, bottles, and other items to be recycled. Proceeds will be used to cripple children.
• The outreach committee has enlisted 25 visitors to make calls on people who are not afflicted with any church.
• Evening massage - 6 p.m.
• The Pastor would appreciate it if the ladies of the congregation would lend him their electric girdles for the pancake breakfast next Sunday morning.
• The audience is asked to remain seated until the end of the recession.
• Low Self-Esteem Support Group will meet Thursday at 7 to 8:30 p.m. Please use the back door.
• Ushers will eat latecomers.
• The third verse of Blessed Assurance will be sung without musical accomplishment.
• For those of you who have children and don't know it, we have a nursery downstairs.
• The Rev. Merriwether spoke briefly, much to the delight of the audience.
• The pastor will preach his farewell message, after which the choir will sing, "Break Forth Into Joy."
• During the absence of our pastor, we enjoyed the rare privilege of hearing a good sermon when J.F. Stubbs supplied our pulpit.
• Next Sunday Mrs. Vinson will be soloist for the morning service. The pastor will then speak on "It's a Terrible Experience."
• Due to the Rector's illness, Wednesday's healing services will be discontinued until further notice.
• Stewardship Offertory: "Jesus Paid It All"
• The music for today's service was all composed by George Friedrich Handel in celebration of the 300th anniversary of his birth.
• Remember in prayer the many who are sick of our church and community.
• The eighth-graders will be presenting Shakespeare's Hamlet in the church basement on Friday at 7 p.m. The congregation is invited to attend this tragedy.
• The concert held in Fellowship Hall was a great success. Special thanks are due to the minister's daughter, who labored the whole evening at the piano, which as usual fell upon her.
• 22 members were present at the church meeting held at the home of Mrs. Marsha Crutchfield last evening. Mrs. Crutchfield and Mrs. Rankin sang a duet, The Lord Knows Why.
• A song fest was hell at the Methodist church Wednesday.
• Today's Sermon: HOW MUCH CAN A MAN DRINK? with hymns from a full choir.
• Hymn 43: "Great God, what do I see here?"
  Preacher: The Rev. Horace Blodgett
  Hymn 47: "Hark! an awful voice is sounding"
• On a church bulletin during the minister's illness: GOD IS GOOD Dr. Hargreaves is better.
• Potluck supper: prayer and medication to follow.
• Don't let worry kill you off - let the church help.
• The 1997 Spring Council Retreat will be hell May 10 and 11.
• Pastor is on vacation. Massages can be given to church secretary.
  Taken from: http://www.bible-reading.com/bulletin.html

These are humorous examples of miscommunication involving organizational communication, but these situations are not always humorous. Churches should endeavor to represent themselves and the Lord well through their use of organizational communication.

It is worthwhile for churches to preform an annual audit on all of their communications, both external and internal, to make sure that they are still serving their purpose and being effective.

The Benefit of Communication to Relationships

Healthy communication is an integral part of any and all relationships. Without communication, relationships suffer and eventually wither away. Whether it is in a marriage or with family, friends, or coworkers, healthy communication patters allow for growth and strength in relationships.

Communication in relationships generally needs to go two ways, meaning that both participants in a relationship must be willing participants in communication. If this mutual communication occurs, it is definitely a benefit to the relationship. Communication allows both individuals to express their needs and wants in an environment where they are confident that they will be heard. Communication also allows for healthy conflict resolution to take place so that any issues that may arise can be resolved.

Communication is a powerful way for people to express their love and affection towards one another. Words of praise and encouragement or the non-verbal communication that comes from a pat on the back or the wink of an eye does wonders to make people feel special and wanted.

The whole area of creative communication is important in relationships too. Individuals should always be seeking out creative ways to communicate with the people they are in relationships with. This brings vibrancy to relationships.

Marriages especially benefit from healthy communication. The cartoon at the beginning of this post pokes fun at this vein of communication, but it is very important. For more information about communication in marriage relationships I would recommend reading the article found at http://www.aish.com/family/marriage/Communication_-_the_key_to_a_good_marriage.asp or many other articles and resources that are available on the Internet.