HOW DO WE COMMUNICATE?

Most people think about speech when they think about communication but there are many other ways we can also use to communicate with each other.

• Facial expressions
• Gestures
• Pointing / Using hands
• Writing
• Drawing
• Using equipment e.g. Text message or computer
• Touch
• Eye contact

For communication to be effective we also have to be able to understand what others are trying to communicate to us.

• Understanding language
• Hearing
• Ability to see
• Reading skills
• Ability to recognise and use information
• Memory to recall and understand information

BASIS FOR COMPARISON

VERBAL COMMUNICATION
Meaning : The communication in which the sender uses words to transmit the message to the receiver is known as verbal communication.
Types : Formal and Informal
Time Consuming : No
Chances of transmission of wrong message : Rarely happens.
Documentary Evidence : Yes, in case of written communication.
Advantage : The Message can be clearly understood and immediate feedback is possible.
Presence : The message can be transmitted through letters, phone calls, etc. so the personal presence of the parties, doesn't make any change.

NON-VERBAL COMMUNICATION
Meaning : The communication that takes place between sender and receiver with the use of signs is known as non-verbal communication.
Types : Chronemics, Vocalics, Haptics, Kinesics, Proxemics, Artifacts.
Time Consuming  : Yes
Chances of transmission of wrong message  : Happens most of the time.
Documentary Evidence : No
Advantage : Helpful in understanding emotions, status, lifestyle and feelings of the sender.
Presence : The personal presence of both the parties to communication is a must.

Different people have different ways of communicating that work best for them. Some of the different types of communication are:

Verbal  communication - Differences in how you speak, including the tone, pitch, speed and volume of your voice could change how your messages are taken in. Try to avoid using jargon or abbreviations and complicated words and terminology. Make sure you always speak in a respectful way, adjusting your speech to suit the individual.

Sign language - This is a recognised language throughout the world. British Sign Language (BSL) is used by individuals in this country and there are variations of sign language in different regions.

Makaton - This is a form of language that uses a large collection of signs and symbols. It is often used with those who have learning and physical disabilities, or hearing impairment.

Braille - Is a code of raised dots that are ‘read’ using touch. For people who are visually impaired or who are blind, the system supports reading and writing.

Body language – This is a type of nonverbal communication. There are many different aspects of body language, including gestures, facial expressions, eye contact, body positioning and body movements. Each of these will communicate information about an individual or a worker often without them realising it.

Gestures – These are hand or arm movements that emphasise what is being said or used as an alternative to speaking.

Facial expressions – These support what is being said by showing reactions or feelings. They can give you valuable clues that you can use to check out a  person’s feelings.

Eye contact - Maintaining good eye contact is an important way for a worker to show that they are engaged and listening.

Position - The way that we stand, sit or hold our arms when we are talking will provide others with clues about our feelings, attitude and emotions.

Written communication - This method is used to send messages, keep records, or provide avidence

source : http://keydifferences.com/difference-between-verbal-and-non-verbal-communication.html#ixzz4VdcHL7s0

source : http://www.skillsforcare.org.uk/Documents/Learning-and-development/Care-Certificate/Standard-6.pdf