What Is Communication Theory? Definition of Communication Theory, Communication Theory Meaning and Concept

The theory of communication is one that focuses on investigating and studying the ability of certain living beings to establish relationships with others through the exchange of information.


In other words, this theory is dedicated to the study of communication which, in turn, has as its main objective interaction, good understanding and the presentation of relevant information.


In this sense, we must remember that the communication process requires a series of essential elements to develop effectively. The sender sends a message through a channel with the intention that the receiver can successfully decode it.


The origin of this theory dates back to the year 1920. Claude Shannon, considered the father of information theory , points out that the time used to transmit certain information is similar to the amount of it that is transmitted. He also talks about an important element such as noise that can harm the time that the message reaches the receiver effectively.


In 1948, Shannon was developing aspects that would mark a before and after in communication theory. Based on Norbert Wiener's theory of probability, he focused on how to optimally encrypt the information that the sender wishes to expose.


Shannon includes in his theory the most important elements for communication to occur. For example, sender, receiver, channel, message, and noise.


What are the most outstanding elements of communication theory?


One of the most outstanding things about communication is the importance of feedback in order to establish communication between two or more people.


This supposes the ratification that the message has been understood and that a response is being generated by the receiver towards the information received.


According to Shannon, the most prominent elements of communication theory are the following:


  • Source: This important element is the origin of the information. It is in charge of originating a message so that it later reaches the receiver.
  • Issuer: Responsible for managing the process so that the message is ready for transmission.
  • Channel: It is the medium that transports the message so that it can be exposed.
  • Receiver: The person in charge of receiving the information. If you are able to understand it effectively, the process will have been carried out successfully.

Why is communication theory important?


The theory of communication stands out for revealing the mechanism and the way in which communication begins.


It is important to know how communication between living beings occurs, since it is essential for them.


Thanks to communication, human relationships are strengthened, conflicts are avoided, problems are clarified and objectives are shared with the goal of achieving them with a greater degree of success.