Human Communication Essay

Communication has been a part of the human lifestyle since the early years. Communication is defined as the process of transmitting messages and information in an attempt to achieve understanding. The whole process of communication requires various skills such as speaking, listening, analyzing, and evaluating the message. Thus, communication plays a vital role in the society in terms of achieving understanding and harmony among people. Through communication, cooperation and collaboration can be attained (Bergeson). However, conventional forms of relaying messages, such as passing information by word of mouth, place the messages at risk of being altered and even distorted. These conventional means of communication also make it difficult to transmit messages to a large audience and to reach the audience in other parts of the world (â€Å"Verbal and Nonverbal Communication†). Fortunately, due to the technological advancements and the continuous developments in the field of mass communication, various tools and gadgets were invented and are being continuously invented to bridge such difficulties and further facilitate human communication. However, these technologically advanced communication tools and devices present both advantages and disadvantages to humankind. Hence, this paper aims to present the positive and negative effects of technology to human communication. Technology and Human Communications Communication has undergone a drastic transformation since the early times. The conventional method of interpersonal communication has been completely altered, and the inception of new technologies has enabled people to devise other methods or means of communicating with other people. One of the possibilities in communication brought by technology is the wireless or electronic communication through mobile phones and electronic email (e-mail). These inventions have significantly influenced the way people communicate as these hi-tech ways of communications continuously provide people with options in terms of ways in which they could convey their message (Kauppila). In addition, through these technological advancements, specifically the invention of electronic communication, people can now communicate with others instantaneously regardless of the time and distance that separate them. Electronic communication solves the problems posed by the traditional mailing system such as the delays or the long wait before the mail reaches the recipient, and the risk that the recipient would not get the mail at all. Using the postal system to exchange messages and information takes too long, and there may be alterations or distortions on the content of the message. However, communication via a mobile phone, text messaging, or electronic mail is instantaneous; information is delivered to the recipient as soon as it is sent (Kauppila).