Wednesday, 4 April 2012

The Development of Oral Communication and Linguistic Competence

Preview of questions to be answered:
  1. What is Oral Communication?
  2. How is Oral Communication developed?
  3. What is Linguistic Competence?
  4. What are the four sub competences of Linguistic Competence?

44 comments:

  1. Dear bloggers, the above set of questions is there for us to entertain ourselves in this blog.

    To start off, we first must understand what oral communication is.
    ...According to Canale & Swain 2001, Communication is defined as the exchange and negotiation of information between at least two individuals. It involves the continuous evaluation of meaning on the part of the participants.
    Do you agree? How can you best define oral communication?

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  2. I am in agreement with your finding on oral communication.
    ...However, to add on to that, communication is part of everyday life, from man’s first steps in transit through socio-historical development of mankind.(Fuentes, Navarro R, 2004)

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    1. Thanks for your posting. I like the part whereby you mention that it is part of everyday life. That's right. Everyone needs to communicate in various means. Just imagine if we would just record one day on the various ways we use to communicate, it would be really surprising. Believe you me!

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  3. I totally agree with you guys. According to the website www.managementstudyguide.com/oral-communication.htm, Oral communication implies communication through the mouth but it can also include visual aids and non-verbal elements to support the conveyance of meaning. Oral communication includes speeches, presentations, discussions and aspects of interpersonal communication. When communicating face-to-face the body language and tone of voice play an important role when delivering a message. It's like the saying: "it's not what you say, it's how you say it". When communicating face-to-face you also get immediate feedback. Oral communication is generally recommended when the communication matter is of a temporary kind or where a direct interaction is required. In another website www.oralcommunication.net I found out that oral communication as well as sign language is something that everybody begins to do from early in life, but then neglect to perfect it. It states that there are formal and proper rules for speaking but we often adopt different methods to convey our message. For example, word meanings are frequently changed with the times, causing confusion between generations and cultures. Slang words are also invented and become popular although not all people know the true meanings of such jargon.

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    1. Yap! Our mouth is one of the medium for oral communication. In this form, there is high level of understanding and transparency as it is interpersona.(http://www.managementstudyguide.com/oral-communication.html). I give credit to the section, " It's like the saying: "it's not what you say, it's how you say it". This has a lot of meaning.

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  4. I agree with you all, oral communication describes any type of inter-action that makes use of spoken words. There are many forms of oral communication for example; speeches, presentations, discussions. According to Herta A Murphy and Hebert W. Hildebrandt; oral communication is the ability to communicate effectively through speaking as well as in writing is highly, valued and demanded.

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    1. That's why we as educators should promote a lot of verbal communication and literacy in our classrooms. It is then that we mould our students to become competent. Don't you agree?

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    2. Yes, I agree that we, as educators should promote a lot of verbal communication and literacy in our classroom. For example, modeling the act of reading is an effective way how we educators can motivate children to read and promote literacy so they become competent.

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  5. Everyone's postings were worth reading. I am quite sure that we come into agreement that oral communication is vital primarily because it is our everyday use. By practicing it, we are able to mould our way of speaking with others. This leads me to our second phase of our blog. In your prior postings, you all mentioned about forms of communication. There are the formal and informal communications. This includes discussions, meetings, workshops, phone calls amongst others.
    Moreover, let us take note that developing good oral communication is essential. On my research, I found that there are many ways to improve oral communication. What captured my attention was that it had reading as the number one factor. Simply increasing what you read can improve your vocabulary. It helps you express ideas clearly and eliminate weaknesses in your language skills. What do you think about this bloggers?
    Please refer on the address below to read on the article:
    http://www.illumine.co.uk/write-speak-influence/verbcom-info/nine-ways-to-improve-verbal-communication.htm

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  6. I agree with Mr. Reneau’s reflection; moreover, I deem that reading enhances our ability to guide ourselves to communicate with one another. It helps individuals to follow directions, understand each other, and helps humans to plan and accomplish their objectives.
    According to Olga Morozan (1999), “The communication represents the meaning of human relationship. This is a process of sending and receiving of different messages from one person to another.” I agree with this researcher because humans in one way or the other should communicate to understand what is being communicated. Based on this quote, I have realized that there are other factors in our environment that play a major role to enhance human oral communication skills. These factors are positive attitudes, be an optimistic person, willing to learn from others, accept professional advices, accept correction when given, learn from our mistakes, be willing to improve and make a change in oneself to be a better speaker. I deem that if these factors are taken into consideration by individuals there must be a change and humans will improved and be excellent speakers to deliver instructions for others to understand what is being delivered.

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    1. You are totally right. I support what you said. It is all based on the person's attitude and interest in being very optimistic. If this happens in such a manner where the messenger and the receiver of the message work simultaneously, I am sure that communication will be better. Only those people who persevere will accomplish what they want. What you thing about this bloggers?

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  7. I agree with Dennis when he said that we as teachers must include a lot of verbal communication in our classrooms. Here are some ways how oral communication can be developed in our classrooms using interactive techniques with our students: interviews, guessing games, discussions, roleplay, simulations, problem solving activities, etc.www.seasite.niu.edu/. John Caputo stated "Good teachers also have to weave interesting narratives and tell stories." This is another way to develop oral communication, as you guys mentioned, reading will improve students' vocabulary. Children can role play the story and have discussions.

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    1. I like those alternatives that you mentioned. They are indeed interactive. There was one time when I played the song of the three little pigs to identify the elements of a story such as the characters, plot and setting. Using this instructional aid was worthy. Students listened, discussed and completed the plot chart. I had time to assist students one by one and the song was played over and over. I share this with you all because it worked for me. And I say to myself, "Why you all not try it?" What was most enjoying was that I had them role play these scenes. These children surprised me a lot. I think that through this way students were exposed into a more interesting way of learning. Just recently, students were expected to write a story. They implemented a lot of what they learned. So teachers, here we a have "some" of these techniques as Nubia mentioned. Let us implement it. Have you tried this technique before bloggers? Did it work?

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  8. According to Theresa Flormata-Ballesteros in her book "Speech and Oral Communication," communication is the transmission of information, ideas and attitudes from one person to another. For oral communication to be effective, you need to have a clear speaking voice, good pronunciation and have the ability to adequately convey your meaning.
    I agree that we as teachers ask our students many times to stand and give a small presentation on any topic of their choice or discussion and many other ways to get them to be better speakers or to communicate with the class. But my question is how many times do we teach our student to properly do this? Do we teach them techniques to better communicate with others?
    In this article on Livestrong.com it mentions 10 ways to improve communication skills:planning,clarity, posture, facial expressions, gestures, voice, speech rate, listening, communication style,Listener Preferences. By practicing them in our class we will improve communication skills and have better presentations, discussions and many more of the activities mentioned by my colleague's

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    1. Seleni, the findings that you presented are precise. I can say that it is based on ones attitude. There is a saying from Winston Churchill which states that Attitude is a LITTLE thing that means a BIG difference. Positive attitudes from the speaker and the receiver is important. As educators, where are the starting engine to that. Nonetheless, we must motivate those whom we educate.

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    2. According to Lyle, 1993, Oral language provides a foundation for the development of other language skills. For most children, the literacy learning process actually begins with speaking; talking about their experiences, talking about themselves. It is through speech that children learn to organize their thinking and focus their ideas. Therefore, we can see that oral communication is indeed an important link in the process of children's learning and thinking development. I agree with you, Mrs. Nubia, that we, teachers must include a lot of verbal communication in our classroom to improve the oral communication of the student. I believe, that as teachers, we should not assume the role of dictatorial. Instead, we should see ourselves as friendly and interested facilitators of student learning. In the article, Guidelines of developing oral communication it states that the development of oral communication is by the teacher's ability in the classroom. Holbrook (1983) sets out three criteria for the development of oral communication: fluency, clarity, and sensitivity. To help children achieve these levels of development it is our responsibility as teachers in the classroom to use interactive techniques.

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  9. I agree with you Tania, that we as teachers need to develope oral communication. Interactive techniques work very well but if its properly used by teachers to improve communication and not as a way to "kill time". For any method to work it must be planned carefully so that the objective is achieved

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    1. Yeah! Thumbs up! Based on experience, Shinichi Suzuki quotes that every child grows; everything depends on the teachers. Teachers inspire his listeners with the wish to teach him/herself.

      Read more at http://www.brainyquote.com/quotes/keywords/teacher_6.html#7TBFJtutqARmL2PB.99

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  10. It is pleasing to log in to our blog spot and find a lot of great replies. All of them are interesting.
    Nonetheless, there is one little thing that is bugging in my mind and I can't do without it. A key element that I want to highlight is to be aware of non-verbal communication traps. The impact of the words we say is only a small element of the communication we are giving. We should make sure that our words, our tone, the gestures we make, facial expressions and body language we use, are all relevant to our conversation. How do you see this finding?

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    1. Considering the importance of Communication in a classroom, Non-verbal cues has been a targeted element as well. In the classroom, it occurs with distance, environment, facial expressions, vocal cues, body movements, gestures, touch, time, attractiveness, and dress. Eye contact is a very important factor of interpersonal communication. This is as it helps control the flow of communication. It also signals interest in others. Furthermore, eye contact with audiences increases the speaker's credibility. Teachers who make eye contact open the flow of communication and convey interest, warmth & concern to the pupil. Facial expressions are very powerful. If you smile frequently you will be perceived as more likeable, friendly & approachable. Smiling is often a great catch in my opinion & many students will react kindly & learn a great deal more. If you people fail to gesture while speaking, you may be perceived as boring & dull.
      http://www.coursework.info/University/Education/Teaching

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    2. That is so true. A lively and animated style captures the other person's attention, makes the material more interesting, facilitates learning & provides a bit of entertainment. You communicate many messages by the way you walk, talk, stand and sit.
      www.jstor.org/stable/1475750

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  11. Having gained some knowledge on oral communication and its importance, we can sum up that oral speech impacts us within society. It is through communication that we get things done.
    What is also important is how competent we are when speaking. It is simply not talking informally, but building high level of comprehension of what we say, think or do. This is focused on language within a community of speaker or in other words Linguistic Competence. What do you understand by this? Is it essential for communication?

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  12. Communication has a lot to do with Linguistic Competence. Leading to that, I found an article onTRIBUCAN and it states, “The linguistic communication competence refers to the use of language as a means of both oral and written communication as well as adevice for learning and controlling behavior and emotions. The development of the linguistic competence is crucial to solve problems and learn to live in harmony with others. This article is based on Noam Chomsky’s theory

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    1. Yep! You are right. There is a bond between communication and linguistic competence. The idea of linguistic competence was first developed by linguist Noam Chomsky in the mid-1960s. Chomsky's theories described how language was acquired and functioned within a culture. Linguistic competence is part of a larger theory of linguistic behavior known as universal grammar, which explains language as a natural ability with which children are born and which becomes refined as they develop.

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  13. I do agree with you, Mr. Dennis that Linguistic competence is a term used by speech experts to describe how language is defined within a community of speakers. This term applies to mastering the combination of sounds, syntax and semantics known as the grammar of a language. Noam Chomsky defines linguistic competence as an idealized understanding of the rules and construction of a given language. This includes the distinct sounds used in the language, the combination of these sounds, the creation of sentences and the interpretation of a sentence. Once a speaker masters this set of rules, he or she can use this grammar to produce new phrases that will be understood by all speakers of the same language. It is essential for communication, since the individual will be able to automatically recognize and reject ungrammatical words used in an oral or written sentence.

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    1. I can firmly uphold that is based on a combination of the components of linguistic competence. The terms "master the combination" fits it well because it is all based on constant practice in order to be at a competitive standards. So you are right Ms. Tanya.

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  14. All of what we call linguistic competence is credited to linguist Noam
    Chomsky. According to him, it is the knowledge
    of language structure necessary for
    understanding and performance also termed as speaking. Besides that, Goode & Jones, in 2004, supports Chomsky's theory that linguistic competence is the capacity of an organization and its personnel to communicate effectively, and convey information in a manner that is easily understood by diverse audiences. Therefore, I can attest that it is important. Am i right?

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    1. Allow me to comment on this part of your reply that captured my attention - "easily understood by diverse audiences". This is an asset to language for the mere fact that we communicate with a variety of audiences. Therefore we must adapt our language at different levels to soothe the listener.

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  15. According to Noam Chomsky, competence is the 'ideal' language system that makes it possible for speakers to produce and understand an infinite number of sentences in their language, and to distinguish grammatical sentences from ungrammatical sentences. Linguistic competence is the system of linguistic knowledge possessed by native speakers of a language, it is in contrast to the concept of Linguistic performance, the way the language system is used in communication.

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    1. Thanks to our unique brain we are able to form that infinite number of sentences in our own native language to express ourselves. Isn't the brain so amazing?

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    2. Oh! That is amazing that our brain is unique and diverse. It does a thousand things at the same time.

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  16. Thank you bloggers for replying to the previous postings.
    As we have seen, speakers of a language are able to produce and understand an unlimited number of utterances, including many that are novel and unfamiliar. This ability, which is often called linguistic competence, is the central subject matter of linguistics. In investigating linguistic competence, linguists focus on the mental system that allows human beings to form and interpret the words and sentences of their language. This system is called a grammar and is made up of four components which are:
    • phonological competence
    • lexical competence
    • grammatical competence
    • discourse competence
    Can you help me understand that a little better?

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  17. But what has me puzzled a bit is how to improve the competitiveness in language of children in remote areas. What happens when we go to a village where children speak Spanish and have limited resources such as television and internet? They barely listen to English. All communication is done in Spanish. I have problems getting them to communicate with each other. . How can I help them?

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    1. Well,I admire your initiative of rendering assistance to those needy children. Living in the remote areas has many pros and cons. What you mention in your posting is one of them. I recommend that you have them do a lot of reading (at school and at home). Probably display a slogan in your class saying, "READING IS COOL AT SCHOOL AND AT HOME". Also an functional reading corner can help. Moreover, speak to them in proper English at all times. Mold them the way you want. That's your priority in day 1 at school.I hope I helped you.

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  18. The phonological competence involves the rules of combining sounds. Speakers of English, for example, know that an English word can end, but not begin, with an "-ng" sound. We are not aware of our knowledge of these rules, but we do know a large number of rules.

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    1. Yes. You are right. The word phonological comes from the word phonology meaning the patterning of speech sounds. This will form part of language.

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  19. The following is what my research states:
    • Phonological and Discourse competences reveal the details of individual pronunciation work. Both terms deal directly with the ways how sounds are produced to decode meaning. Pennington (1990:549) stated that “the acquisition of phonological competence and discourse competence goes hand-in-hand”.
    • Lexical competence is the ability to recognize and use words in a language in the way that speakers of the language use them. Lexical competence includes understanding the different relationships among families of words and the common collocations of words.
    • Grammatical competence is the ability to recognize and produce the distinctive grammatical structures of a sentences and to use them effectively in communication.

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  20. I can say that phonology happens first. Speech sounds are formed to later become a word. The forming of words is termed lexical competence. It also refers to morphology which is the formation of a word. These morphemes will be combined with other morphemes to make up the grammatical competence. In this manner sentences are formed (also called syntax). Now, sentences are combined with other sentences to make up language. The interpretation of words and sentences is called semantics or discourse competence. In simpler terms it is like a process as follows: phonological(phonology)-lexical(morphology)-grammatical(syntax)-discourse competence(semantics). How does that process work now?

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  21. I agree with you Mrs. Amira and to add to your findings Discourse competence is knowing how to interpret the larger context and how to construct longer stretches of language so that the parts make up a coherent whole.Discourse competence asks: How are words, phrases and sentences put together to create conversations, speeches, email messages, newspaper articles? www.nclrc.org/essentials/goalsmethods/goal.htm

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    1. As I mentioned in my comment, it is the comprehension of words. From that you can form what you called stretches of language that are longer than sentences, such as stories, conversations, or business letters.
      http://vlc.missouristate.edu/languagelearning/competence.asp

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  22. I am in accordance with you all. Adding to that, ‘Competence’ in the chomskian original referred to ‘linguistic competence’, a set of organised knowledge which consists of several sub-competences, the phonological (sounds),morphological (word formation), syntactic (sentence formation), semantic (the interpretation of words and sentences)and lexical components (Belinchón, Igoa y Rivière
    1994:261-262). All of these components functions simultaneously to form language in a wide range of context such as speeches, email messages, articles etc.

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  23. Oh, Yes. It's like plants and animals. None can do without each other. They depend on each other for oxygen and carbon dioxide. In similar manner, these components function. If one of them is inessential, there will be a breakage or a barrier for language or communication to occur.

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  24. SUMMARY
    Well, bloggers we have come to an end to this blog. Thank you for being part of this adventure. The information below is the summary of our findings on Oral Communication and Linguistic Competence.

    To begin with, in this blog we defined what oral communication is. We concurred to define oral communication as the effective exchange of information between at least two individuals through speaking as well as in writing. This is part of everyday life in all cultures and context from the time we were born until the last day of our life. Taking this into account, that is why we as educators must promote a lot of communication within students and teachers as well.

    Further on, we took note that developing good oral communication is essential. We found many ways to improve oral communication. The most essential one was reading. Simply increasing what you read can improve your vocabulary. It helps you express ideas clearly and eliminate weaknesses in your language skills. This is further developed in the classroom, using interactive techniques with our students such as interviews, guessing games, discussions, role play, simulations and problem solving activities. We can develop it by having a positive attitudes, being optimistic, willing to learn from others, accept professional advices, accept correction when given, learn from our mistakes, and be willing to improve and make a change in oneself. For most children, the literacy learning process actually begins with speaking; talking about their experiences, talking about themselves (Lyle, 1993). If these methodologies are implemented by individuals there must be an improvement to deliver instructions and comprehend well.

    In addition to that, we had a discourse on how Linguistic Competence came about and what it is. The idea of linguistic competence was first developed by linguist Noam Chomsky in the mid-1960s. Chomsky's theories described how language was acquired and functioned within a culture. Competence is the 'ideal' language system that makes it possible for speakers to produce and understand an infinite number of sentences in their language, and to distinguish grammatical sentences from ungrammatical sentences. Linguistic competence is the system of linguistic knowledge possessed by native speakers of a language. The development of the linguistic competence is crucial in our everyday life for communication.
    Besides that, we went more in depth to separate Linguistic Competence into its compartments. In doing so, we found out about that linguists focus on the mental system that allows human beings to form and interpret the words and sentences of their language. This system is called a grammar and is made up of several sub-competences, the phonological (sounds), morphological (word formation), syntactic (sentence formation), semantic (the interpretation of words and sentences)and lexical components. All of these components functions simultaneously to form language in a wide range of context such as speeches, email messages, articles etc.

    To conclude, I can attest that from the primary stage of life to its ultimate breath, oral communication is very significant. Communication is to occur in everyday of our life in all contexts and cultures. This is bound to happen once there is the medium. However, all arose from the famous linguist, Noam Chomsky, who in his theory explained that individuals are born with a blank slate which is nurtured throughout life. It is all based on its phonological, morphological, syntactical and semantic competence. All of what makes up a language adhered to develop in any culture.

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  25. Excellent Blog! I admire your dedication to this project. Very good dialogue! Find the time to continue this kind of discussion among yourselves.
    Cohesion 2 pts
    Creativity 2 pts
    Content 4 pts
    Grammar 1.5 pts
    Total: 9.5 pts!

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