Tools of Communication

Tools of Communication

There are various tools that helps in the process of communication. These tools have been developed by human beings from the dawn of civilization or before. They help us in communicating sometimes universally sometimes within a group. Here are some of the tools discussed in brief. There can be many more tools that help in the process of communication. This is not the end of the list.

i) Language: The main function of each and every language is to communicate. Each language has various forms. It is one of the foremost and important tool of communication. It is the most clear and comfortable tool to use. Each and every individual uses this tools in the process of communication. There are different languages in this world. We need to have knowledge of a particular language in order to communicate in that language. That’s why depending on the use of various languages in the world there are different linguistic groups.

ii) Script: This is a group of symbols used to express the language in the written format. They are also highly essential useful tools of communication. One limitation with script is we have make a conscious effort to acquire knowledge about a particular script. This consumes a lot of time. This is also regarded as the tool of the educated mass.

iii) Drawing/Painting/Sculpture/Visual art: Many individuals are blessed with creativity. They use their creativity to communicate in an artistic manner. Their art is well accepted in the society and gives them high regard. These artistic creations reflect nothing else but communication. They express themselves with the help of art. These art may be in the form of drawing (child) or painting (professional), they convey the same meaning. Artistic creations are more stylish in nature in terms of communication. A small piece of art can convey thousands of sentences by its form, size, colour combination, shades etc.

iv) Body: Our body is one of the most important tools of communication. Whether we are using language or not it is always present in the process of communication. Without body cues our communication may be confusing. Our words must be supported by proper actions reflected by the body. They may be in the form of gestures, postures, eye contact, spacing etc. Every action or non-action is part of Body. This type of tool is otherwise known as body language.

v) Silence: In particular situations silence can also act as an important tool for communication. There are many instances where either we don’t use language/words or we are not in a position to use those. In such situations silence has the power to convey the message effectively. The silence inside a temple indicates purity and nearer to godliness. The silence inside an examination hall suggests discipline and law abiding.

vi) Dress/costume: This is also an important tool for communication. Dress has been an integral part of every culture, tradition, custom and practice. They give shape to our personality and individuality. Dress also reflects culture and behavior. An individual’s behavior can always be guessed by the kind dress one is wearing. It has the potential to convey many things without the use of words. School uniform, mask, traditional attire etc. can convey the purpose. We can identify an individual from the dress.

vii) Surrounding/Environment: Many a times just by reflecting to the environment we get a lot of message. Many things are communicated by the environment itself. We need not engage in words to understand a particular situation or context. The environment is powerful enough to communicate the message and convey us convincingly.