University of Dar Es Salaam

Centre for Communication Studies

CL 106 Questions for Timed Test I
2023/2024 SEM II

1. With examples from the real-world situations, explain the role of schema in
the communication process. Why is this understanding of how schema
works useful in communication?

2. Nonverbal cues are intertwined in our daily communication. With examples

explain five forms of nonverbal communication and how being aware of
nonverbal cues improve one’s ability to communicate effectively.

3. Whatever Professional one may choose public speaking is inevitable. With

examples, discuss five skills one needs to develop to become a good public
speaker.

4. A person cannot randomly choose a channel to communicate effectively. By

using ten points, argue for or against this statement.

5. Analyzing one’s audience is a key to successful public speaking. Explain

how audience analysis can shape one’s presentation.

NB; THIS TIMED ESSAY TEST WILL BE DONE ON WEEK 6, THE WEEK WITH
29th APRIL 2024 THROUGH 03RD MAY 2024 IN YOUR RESPECTIVE SEMINARS.

1. With examples from the real-world situations, explain the role of schema in the communication
process. Why is this understanding of how schema works useful in communication?
Schema in Communication

In communication, a schema refers to the mental structures or frameworks that

individuals use to organize and interpret information they receive during interactions.
These schemas are developed based on past experiences, knowledge, beliefs, and
cultural influences. They help individuals make sense of the world around them and
guide their understanding of various communication cues.

Schemas in communication can influence how people perceive and interpret messages,
how they respond to others, and how they navigate social interactions. For example,
when someone engages in a conversation, their schemas about topics, language,
gestures, and social norms shape their understanding of the interaction.

Types of Schemas in Communication:

1. Person Schema: This type of schema focuses on specific individuals involved in

communication. It includes information about a person’s characteristics,
behaviors, attitudes, and relationships with others.

2. Social Schema: Social schemas encompass general knowledge about how

people typically behave in different social situations. These schemas help
individuals predict and interpret others’ actions during communication.

3. Self-Schema: Self-schemas pertain to an individual’s perception of themselves

within the context of communication. They include self-concepts, self-identity,
values, beliefs, and goals that influence how one communicates with others.

4. Event Schema: Event schemas involve patterns of behavior expected during

specific events or interactions. These schemas act as scripts guiding individuals
on what to do or say in particular situations.

Role of Schemas in Communication:

 Schemas impact how individuals process incoming information during

communication.
 They influence what aspects of a message are attended to and remembered.
 Schemas help individuals interpret non-verbal cues such as body language and
tone of voice.
 They play a role in shaping perceptions of others’ intentions and meanings
behind their words.
 Schemas can lead to biases or stereotypes that affect communication dynamics.
In summary, schemas in communication serve as cognitive frameworks that shape how
individuals understand, interpret, and engage in various forms of interpersonal
interaction.

Schema plays a crucial role in effective communication by organizing and

structuring information, allowing us to understand and interpret messages more
efficiently. Here are six roles of schema in the communication process, along
with real-world examples:

1. Predicting: Schema helps us anticipate what information is likely to come next

based on our past experiences. For instance, when answering a phone call, we
might expect the caller to identify themselves or ask for a specific person. This
predictive ability allows us to prepare for the conversation and respond
appropriately.
2. Interpreting: Schema provides a framework for interpreting ambiguous or
complex messages. Consider a metaphorical statement like “John is an apple of
my eye.” Without prior knowledge of this idiom, it would be difficult to understand
the intended meaning. However, with the schema of common idioms and
figurative language, we can correctly interpret such statements.
3. Coding: Schema enables us to encode new information into our memory by
relating it to existing knowledge. For example, when learning a new vocabulary
word, we might connect it to a similar word or concept that we already know. This
coding process makes it easier for us to remember and recall new information
later on.
4. Retrieving: Schema facilitates the retrieval of relevant information from our
memory when needed. When communicating with someone about a topic we’re
familiar with, we can quickly access related facts and concepts from our long-
term memory due to the organizational structure provided by schema.
5. Adapting: Schema allows us to adapt our communication style based on the
context and audience. For instance, when speaking to a child versus an adult, we
might simplify our language or use more visuals depending on their level of
understanding and attention span.
6. Learning: Schema plays a vital role in the learning process by helping us make
sense of new information and connecting it to existing knowledge. When studying
a new subject, having a solid understanding of related concepts and their
relationships can significantly improve our ability to learn and retain new
information effectively.

Understanding how schema works is useful in communication for several

reasons:

1. Improves comprehension: By organizing and structuring information into

schemas, we can better understand complex messages and ideas that might
otherwise be difficult or ambiguous without prior knowledge or contextual
understanding.
2. Enhances memory retention: The coding process involved in schema
formation helps us remember new information more effectively by relating it to
existing knowledge structures in our brain (i.e., schemas).
3. Facilitates problem-solving: Schemas provide mental frameworks that help us
identify patterns and make connections between seemingly unrelated pieces of
information when solving problems or making decisions in various contexts
(either personal or professional).
4. Promotes effective teaching and learning: Teachers can use schemas as
tools for organizing content into meaningful units that students can easily grasp
and build upon as they learn new concepts within their respective fields of study
(either academically or professionally).

[Link] cues are intertwined in our daily communication. With examples explain five forms of nonverbal
communication and how being aware of nonverbal cues improve one’s ability to communicate effectively.

Forms of Nonverbal Communication:

1. Facial Expressions: One of the most common forms of nonverbal

communication, facial expressions can convey a wide range of emotions such as
happiness, sadness, anger, surprise, and more. For example, a smile typically
indicates happiness or friendliness, while furrowed brows may signal confusion
or anger.
2. Gestures: Gestures involve the use of hands, arms, and body movements to
convey meaning. For instance, waving goodbye, giving a thumbs up, or pointing
at something are all examples of gestures that can enhance or emphasize verbal
communication.
3. Posture: Posture refers to how we hold and position our bodies while
communicating. Standing up straight with an open posture can signal confidence
and attentiveness, while slouching or crossing arms may indicate defensiveness
or disinterest.
4. Eye Contact: Eye contact plays a crucial role in nonverbal communication as it
can convey interest, attentiveness, sincerity, and confidence. Maintaining
appropriate eye contact during a conversation shows respect and engagement
with the speaker.
5. Tone of Voice: The tone of voice includes aspects such as pitch, volume, pace,
and intonation. It can greatly influence how a message is perceived by others.
For example, speaking softly and slowly may indicate calmness or seriousness,
while speaking loudly and rapidly could convey excitement or urgency.

Importance of Being Aware of Nonverbal Cues:

1. Enhanced Understanding: Being aware of nonverbal cues allows individuals to

better understand the emotions and intentions behind the words spoken by
others. This deeper understanding can lead to more effective communication and
improved relationships.
2. Improved Communication Accuracy: Nonverbal cues often provide additional
context to verbal messages, helping to clarify meaning and prevent
misunderstandings. By paying attention to these cues, individuals can ensure
that their intended message is accurately conveyed.
3. Building Rapport: Nonverbal communication plays a significant role in building
rapport and establishing connections with others. By being attuned to nonverbal
cues such as body language and facial expressions, individuals can create a
sense of trust and mutual understanding in their interactions.
4. Adapting to Different Situations: Awareness of nonverbal cues enables
individuals to adapt their communication style based on the social context or
cultural norms. This flexibility allows for more effective communication across
diverse settings and with people from different backgrounds.
5. Conflict Resolution: Nonverbal cues often reveal underlying emotions or
tensions that may not be explicitly expressed verbally. By recognizing these cues
during conflicts or disagreements, individuals can address underlying issues
more effectively and work towards resolution.

By being mindful of various forms of nonverbal communication and understanding their

impact on interpersonal interactions, individuals can significantly enhance their ability to
communicate effectively in both personal and professional settings.

3. Whatever Professional one may choose public speaking is inevitable. With examples, discuss five
skills one needs to develop to become a good public speaker.

Five Skills Needed to Become a Good Public Speaker:

1. Confidence: Confidence is key when it comes to public speaking. A good public

speaker exudes confidence, which helps to engage the audience and convey
authority on the subject matter. Confidence can be developed through practice,
preparation, and positive self-talk.
2. Effective Communication: Public speakers need to be able to communicate
their message clearly and effectively. This includes using appropriate language,
tone, and body language to convey their ideas. Practicing active listening skills
also helps in understanding the audience’s reactions and adjusting the speech
accordingly.
3. Engaging Storytelling: A good public speaker knows how to tell a compelling
story that captivates the audience’s attention. Using anecdotes, examples, and
personal experiences can help make the speech more relatable and memorable
for the listeners.
4. Body Language and Nonverbal Communication: Nonverbal cues such as
gestures, facial expressions, posture, and eye contact play a crucial role in public
speaking. A skilled public speaker uses body language effectively to emphasize
key points, connect with the audience, and appear confident and approachable.
5. Adaptability: Being able to adapt to different situations and unexpected changes
is an essential skill for a good public speaker. This includes being flexible with
speech delivery, handling challenging questions or interruptions gracefully, and
adjusting the content based on audience feedback.

By honing these five skills - confidence, effective communication, engaging storytelling,

body language proficiency, and adaptability - individuals can develop into successful
public speakers who can effectively engage and inspire their audiences.

5. A person cannot randomly choose a channel to communicate effectively. By using ten points, argue
for or against this statement.

Against the Statement:

1. Diverse Communication Needs: Different situations call for different

communication channels. For instance, a formal business meeting might require
face-to-face interaction, while a quick question could be efficiently handled
through a text message or email.
2. Preference and Comfort: Individuals have varying preferences when it comes
to communication. Some people might feel more comfortable expressing
themselves verbally, while others may prefer written communication to articulate
their thoughts effectively.
3. Accessibility: In today’s digital age, there are numerous communication
channels available, ranging from traditional methods like phone calls and letters
to modern platforms such as social media and video conferencing. Having a
variety of options allows individuals to choose the most suitable channel based
on accessibility.
4. Audience Consideration: Effective communication also depends on the
audience being addressed. Tailoring the channel to the specific audience can
enhance understanding and engagement. For example, younger generations
might respond better to messages delivered through social media platforms.
5. Speed and Urgency: Certain situations require immediate responses or quick
dissemination of information. In such cases, choosing the appropriate channel
that facilitates swift communication is crucial for effectiveness.
6. Non-verbal Cues: Face-to-face or video communication enables individuals to
pick up on non-verbal cues such as body language and facial expressions, which
play a significant role in conveying emotions and intentions accurately.
7. Complexity of Message: The complexity of the message being communicated
can also influence the choice of channel. Detailed information may be better
conveyed through written forms like emails or reports, whereas simple
instructions could be effectively communicated verbally.
8. Cultural Differences: Cultural norms and practices can impact how individuals
perceive different communication channels. Understanding cultural nuances is
essential in selecting the most appropriate channel for effective cross-cultural
communication.
9. Technological Advancements: With advancements in technology, new
communication channels continue to emerge, offering innovative ways to connect
with others. Staying updated on these developments allows individuals to
leverage the latest tools for effective communication.
10. Feedback Mechanisms: Choosing the right communication channel involves
considering feedback mechanisms as well. Some channels allow for immediate
feedback, enabling real-time interaction and clarification of doubts, contributing to
more effective communication outcomes.

Argue for

Introduction:

Effective communication is crucial in various aspects of life, whether it be in personal

relationships, professional settings, or social interactions. Choosing the right channel for
communication plays a significant role in ensuring that the message is conveyed
accurately and understood by the recipient. Randomly selecting a channel without
considering its appropriateness can lead to misunderstandings, misinterpretations, and
ineffective communication. In this argumentative essay, we will explore ten points to
support the statement that a person cannot randomly choose a channel to communicate
effectively.

1. Nature of the Message:

The nature of the message being communicated is a critical factor in determining the
appropriate communication channel. Different channels are more suitable for conveying
specific types of information. For instance, complex or sensitive messages may require
face-to-face communication to ensure clarity and understanding.

2. Audience Preference:

Understanding the preferences of the audience is essential when selecting a

communication channel. Some individuals may prefer written communication via email
or text, while others may respond better to verbal communication through phone calls or
face-to-face interactions. Randomly choosing a channel without considering audience
preferences can result in poor reception of the message.

3. Urgency of Communication:

The urgency of the message also influences the choice of communication channel. In
situations where immediate feedback or response is required, channels like phone calls
or instant messaging may be more appropriate than traditional mail or email. Randomly
selecting a channel without considering urgency can lead to delays in communication.

4. Non-Verbal Cues:

Certain channels of communication, such as face-to-face interactions or video calls,

allow for the transmission of non-verbal cues like body language and facial expressions.
These cues play a significant role in conveying emotions and intentions accurately.
Randomly choosing a channel that lacks these non-verbal cues can result in
misunderstandings.

5. Confidentiality and Privacy:

Considerations regarding confidentiality and privacy are crucial when choosing a

communication channel. Sensitive information should be communicated through secure
channels to prevent unauthorized access or interception. Randomly selecting a channel
without assessing its security features can compromise the confidentiality of the
message.

6. Feedback Mechanisms:

Effective communication involves not just transmitting information but also receiving
feedback from the recipient. Some channels facilitate immediate feedback, such as
phone calls or face-to-face conversations, while others may have delayed response
times. Randomly choosing a channel without considering feedback mechanisms can
hinder effective two-way communication.

7. Cultural Considerations:

Cultural differences can influence how messages are perceived and interpreted by
individuals from diverse backgrounds. Certain communication channels may be more
culturally appropriate or effective in specific contexts. Randomly selecting a channel
without accounting for cultural considerations can lead to misunderstandings and
miscommunication.

8. Technology Accessibility:

In today’s digital age, technology plays a vital role in determining the most suitable
communication channels. Factors such as internet connectivity, device compatibility,
and familiarity with technology impact the effectiveness of communication channels like
video conferencing or social media platforms. Randomly choosing a technologically
advanced channel without ensuring accessibility for all parties involved can create
barriers to effective communication.

9. Relationship Dynamics:
The nature of the relationship between communicators influences the choice of
communication channel. Channels that allow for personalization and emotional
connection, such as face-to-face interactions or handwritten letters, are more suitable
for building rapport and trust in relationships. Randomly selecting a channel without
considering relationship dynamics can affect the quality of interaction.

10. Organizational Policies:

In professional settings, organizations often have policies regarding preferred

communication channels for internal and external communications. Adhering to these
policies ensures consistency, professionalism, and compliance with organizational
standards. Randomly choosing a channel that contradicts organizational policies can
lead to disciplinary actions or conflicts within the workplace.

Conclusion:

In conclusion, effective communication requires thoughtful consideration when selecting

an appropriate channel to convey messages accurately and efficiently. By taking into
account factors such as the nature of the message, audience preferences, urgency,
non-verbal cues, confidentiality, feedback mechanisms, cultural considerations,
technology accessibility, relationship dynamics, and organizational policies; individuals
can enhance their ability to communicate effectively in various contexts.

6. Analyzing one’s audience is a key to successful public speaking. Explain how audience analysis
can shape one’s presentation.

7. Audience Analysis in Public Speaking

8. Audience analysis is a crucial aspect of public speaking as it allows the speaker
to tailor their message effectively to the specific audience they are addressing.
By understanding the demographics, interests, knowledge level, beliefs, and
attitudes of the audience, a speaker can shape their presentation in a way that
resonates with the listeners and achieves the desired impact.
9. 1. Demographics: Analyzing the demographic characteristics of the audience
such as age, gender, education level, occupation, and cultural background helps
the speaker in choosing appropriate language, examples, and references that
are relatable to the audience. For example, a presentation aimed at a younger
audience may incorporate pop culture references and informal language to
engage them effectively.
10. 2. Interests and Needs: Understanding the interests and needs of the audience
enables the speaker to address topics that are relevant and valuable to them. By
aligning the content of the presentation with what matters most to the listeners,
the speaker can capture their attention and keep them engaged throughout the
speech.
11. 3. Knowledge Level: Assessing the knowledge level of the audience on the
topic being discussed is essential for determining how much background
information needs to be provided. A speaker should avoid using jargon or
technical terms that may confuse or alienate listeners who are not familiar with
the subject matter.
12. 4. Beliefs and Attitudes: Taking into account the beliefs, values, and attitudes
of the audience is crucial for avoiding potential conflicts or misunderstandings
during a presentation. By acknowledging and respecting differing viewpoints, a
speaker can build rapport with diverse audiences and foster a positive reception
of their message.
13. Impact on Presentation: By conducting thorough audience analysis, a speaker
can adapt their delivery style, tone, content structure, and supporting materials to
suit the preferences and expectations of their listeners. This personalized
approach enhances communication effectiveness, increases audience
engagement, and ultimately leads to a more successful public speaking
experience.