The Communication Process

Aim of the Game: To explore the communication process

Learning Objectives:

• To talk about the communication process.
• To identify the elements of effective communications.
• To demonstrate effective communication.

Structure:

Small groups.

Time:

15-30 minutes.

Materials:

Visual Aid - 'The communication process' and strips of paper with instructions.

Method:

• Using the visual aid, explain the communication process to the Scouts which involves the following elements:
- a sender (S) who gives out a message through a communication channel or medium,
- a receiver (R) who receives the message and provides feedback also through a medium or channel,
- However the communication process, of both S to R and R to S, can be blocked by what are called “communication barriers”.

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• Ask for clarification or questions, and then ask them to form groups or Patrols and give out instructions for the activity.

• Tell them to pick out two strips of paper at random; one contains a given message (1) and (2) a communication barrier.

• Each group then prepares two sketches, one showing the message blocked by the communication barrier and the negative feedback which results from this, and the second showing ways to eliminate the communication barrier to obtain positive feedback.

• Allow plenty of time for preparation, rehearsal and presentation.

Sample Communication Situations:

1. Applying for a job.
2. Asking permission from parents.
3. Asking academic help from a teacher.
4. Asking a favour from a friend.
5. Expressing emotion to another person.

Evaluation:

• What can you say about the activity?
• What did you do to make the communication process more complete, positive and effective?
• How does this apply to our everyday lives?