FTCE Professional Education Practice Exam

Which of the following best defines communication?

1. The process of reading and writing only

2. The process of sending and receiving verbal and nonverbal messages

3. A one-way process of conveying instructions

4. The act of listening without feedback

The correct answer is: The process of sending and receiving verbal and nonverbal messages

The definition of communication as the process of sending and receiving verbal and nonverbal messages captures the comprehensive nature of how individuals exchange information. This definition emphasizes that communication involves not only the transmission of messages through spoken or written words but also through nonverbal cues such as body language, facial expressions, and tone of voice. This holistic view acknowledges that effective communication encompasses both the intention of the sender and the interpretation of the receiver, ensuring that the message is understood in its entirety. Other options do not encompass the complete essence of communication. For instance, limiting communication to just reading and writing neglects the essential aspects of verbal interaction and nonverbal signals that are crucial in conveying meaning. A definition that describes communication as a one-way process ignores the interactive nature of effective communication, which relies on feedback and understanding from both parties involved. Additionally, suggesting that communication can merely be the act of listening without feedback diminishes the active role involved in the exchange of messages, as genuine communication requires engagement from both the sender and the receiver to foster clarity and connection.