Communication 1 assignment -MARIA
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MUA University *
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2023
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Communications
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Nov 24, 2024
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STUDENT’S NAME: LOSIRKAT MARIA NAMELOK
ADMISSION NUMBER: NOI/NK/14844/2023
TASK: TAKE AWAY ASSIGNMENT
UNIT NAME: COMMUNICATION 1
SEMESTER: SEPT-DEC 2023
Principles and Processes of Communication 1 (assignment)
1.
Discuss how culture dictates communication patterns. Draw examples from any five
cultures you know. (20mks)
High Context Communication: Japanese Culture
In Japan, communication tends to be high context, emphasizing indirect and non-verbal
cues.
People often rely on gestures, facial expressions, and contextual understanding to convey
their messages.
Silence is considered meaningful and can express respect, agreement, or disagreement.
Low Context Communication: American Culture
American communication is generally low context, emphasizing explicit and direct verbal
expression.
People value clarity and straightforwardness in communication, often getting to the point
quickly.
Non-verbal cues are also important, but less emphasis is placed on subtlety.
Politeness and Indirect Communication: Indian Culture
In India, communication is often polite and indirect, with people avoiding direct
confrontation.
Expressions like "maybe" or "we'll see" may indicate hesitation or disagreement without
causing offense.
Non-verbal communication, such as head nods, may convey agreement or understanding.
Harmony and Face Saving: Chinese Culture
Chinese communication emphasizes harmony and face-saving, avoiding direct criticism or
disagreement.
Politeness is crucial, and people may use ambiguity to maintain positive relationships.
Non-verbal cues, such as body language and facial expressions, play a vital role in
understanding the intended message.
Directness and Precision:
German Culture
German communication is characterized by directness and precision.
People value clear
and concise communication, avoiding ambiguity.
Honesty is highly valued, and individuals may provide frank feedback in a professional
context.
Oral Tradition and Community Emphasis: African Culture
Many African cultures place a strong emphasis on oral tradition, with storytelling being a
prominent form of communication.
Communication often involves the whole community, reinforcing a sense of unity and
shared values.
Non-verbal cues, like communal gatherings and rituals, contribute to the richness of
communication.
Expressiveness and Warmth: Brazilian Culture
Brazilian communication is often characterized by warmth, expressiveness, and a focus on
relationships.
Non-verbal cues, such as physical touch and gestures, play a significant role in conveying
emotions.
People may engage in longer conversations and build rapport before discussing business
matters.
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Formality and Reservation: Russian Culture
Russian communication tends to be formal and reserved initially, with a focus on
establishing respect.
Non-verbal cues, like maintaining personal space, are important in determining the nature of
relationships.
Directness is valued, but initial interactions may be more reserved compared to subsequent
communications.
Storytelling and Connection to Land: Australian Aboriginal Culture
Communication in Aboriginal cultures often involves storytelling, preserving and passing
down traditions.
The connection to the land is reflected in communication, with references to nature and the
environment.
Non-verbal cues may include symbolic gestures and expressions tied to cultural beliefs.
Nuances and Formality:
French Culture
The use of formal titles and politeness is crucial, and directness is balanced with a certain level
of diplomacy.
French communication values nuances and often involves formalities, particularly in
professional settings.
Non-verbal cues, such as body language and facial expressions, are carefully observed
for subtleties.
2.
Analyze the norms governing appropriate posture across cultures in your country.
(10mks)
Sitting Posture:
In some cultures, sitting cross-legged may be considered a relaxed and informal posture
suitable for casual settings.
Other cultures may place a strong emphasis on sitting upright with a straight back,
indicating attentiveness and respect.
Eye Contact:
Different cultures have varying norms regarding eye contact during conversations.
Some cultures view sustained eye contact as a sign of confidence and sincerity, while in
others, it may be perceived as confrontational or disrespectful.
Hand Gestures:
The use of hand gestures varies widely among cultures.
In some cultures, expressive hand movements are common and considered a natural part of
communication, while in others, more restrained gestures are preferred.
Personal Space:
The concept of personal space differs across cultures.
In some cultures, individuals may feel comfortable with close proximity during
conversations, while in others, maintaining a certain distance is essential for respecting personal
boundaries.
Standing Posture:
The way individuals stand can convey confidence or formality.
Some cultures may encourage a more relaxed and open stance, while others may prefer a
straight and upright posture to convey attentiveness.
Greeting Gestures:
The manner in which people greet each other can involve specific postures.
Bowing, hugging, or handshakes all have cultural significance and can convey respect,
warmth, or formality.
Head Position:
The position of the head during communication varies across cultures.
In some cultures, tilting the head may indicate interest or agreement, while in others,
maintaining a neutral head position is more common.
Leg Crossings:
Crossing legs while sitting can have different interpretations.
In some cultures, crossing legs is seen as a relaxed and acceptable posture, while in others,
it may be considered disrespectful or inappropriate in certain settings.
Non-Verbal Cues:
Non-verbal cues such as nodding or shaking the head play a role in communication.
The frequency and manner of these cues can vary, with some cultures using them more
prominently to express agreement or disagreement.
Posture in Formal Settings:
Formal settings often have specific posture expectations.
In professional environments, a
straight and attentive posture may be more common, whereas in social gatherings, a more
relaxed posture might be acceptable.
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3.
Identify and discuss the cultural variation in Audience Response in Kenya. (10mks)
1.
Call-and-Response Traditions:
Many Kenyan cultures, deeply rooted in communal values, exhibit vibrant call-and-response
traditions during various gatherings. This dynamic interaction is a hallmark of ceremonies,
celebrations, and performances. The call-and-response dynamic fosters a sense of unity and
participation, with audiences actively engaging by echoing the vocal prompts from performers,
creating a rhythmic and communal atmosphere.
2.
Diversity of Languages:
Kenya's cultural landscape is enriched by the linguistic diversity of its numerous ethnic
groups. Audiences in different regions respond with heightened enthusiasm when addressed in
their native languages. This linguistic connection fosters a deeper sense of cultural identity, as
individuals feel a more profound connection to the message or performance when conveyed in
their mother tongue.
3.
Non-Verbal Expressions:
Non-verbal expressions play a significant role in Kenyan audience response. Clapping,
ululation, and expressive body movements serve as non-verbal languages of approval,
excitement, and appreciation. These gestures are deeply ingrained in cultural practices,
conveying a spectrum of emotions and adding a layer of richness to the audience's engagement
with the event.
4.
Cultural Events and Celebrations:
Cultural events in Kenya are often marked by spirited audience participation. Traditional
dances, rituals, and ceremonies elicit responses filled with energy and enthusiasm. The rhythmic
clapping, synchronized movements, and vocal expressions collectively create an immersive
experience, reinforcing a sense of shared cultural identity and celebration.
5.
Respect for Elders:
Kenyan cultures place a strong emphasis on respecting elders and authority figures. This
respect is reflected in audience responses during speeches or performances by esteemed
individuals. It is common to observe audiences standing, lowering their heads, or using other
gestures that signify reverence and acknowledgment of the wisdom and experience carried by
these figures.
6.
Regional Variations:
Kenya's geographical and cultural diversity leads to regional variations in audience response.
Each region exhibits unique customs and practices that influence how audiences engage with
events. Whether in the coastal communities, highland regions, or urban centers, distinct audience
response traditions emerge, contributing to the tapestry of Kenya's cultural mosaic.
7.
Religious Influences:
Religious beliefs significantly shape audience response in Kenya. Gatherings with religious
contexts often involve expressions of faith, such as prayers, hymns, and communal worship.
Audiences actively participate in religious ceremonies, with responses reflecting a blend of
spiritual devotion and cultural expressions of shared beliefs.
8.
Storytelling and Oral Tradition:
Storytelling is a deeply ingrained aspect of Kenyan cultures, and audience response during
these narratives involves active engagement. Listeners interject with expressions of agreement,
laughter, or empathy, creating an interactive storytelling experience. The oral tradition fosters a
sense of continuity and connection with cultural heritage, with audience responses becoming
integral to the storytelling dynamic.
9.
Ceremonial Events:
Ceremonial events, such as weddings and funerals, evoke emotional and culturally specific
audience responses. Joy, sorrow, and expressions of solidarity are woven into the fabric of these
events. Audiences actively engage in rituals, music, and communal expressions, underscoring the
significance of these ceremonies as shared cultural experiences.
10.
Modern Influences:
Urbanization and globalization introduce modern elements into Kenyan audience responses.
In urban areas, audiences at concerts or public events might showcase responses that align with
contemporary global trends. Applause, cheers, and social media engagement become additional
dimensions of audience interaction, reflecting a blend of traditional values and modern
influences in Kenya's evolving cultural landscape.
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REFERENCES
1.
Chen, G. M. (1995). Differences in critical thinking skills among students educated in
different cultures. The Journal of General Education, 44(3), 167-183.
2.
Hofstede, G. (1980). Culture's consequences: International differences in work-related
values. Sage Publications.
3.
Hall, E. T. (1976). Beyond culture. Anchor Press.