Planning 10									Name __________
Barriers to Communication
Although communication should seem simple enough, then why is it so difficult? There are several barriers to communication that you will now explore.
A communication barrier occurs when the true intent of the message is blocked in some way. The following are common barriers to effective communication and ways to avoid these problems.
Distractions. 
Sounds and movement may distract a receiver from concentrating on a sender's message. Also, the receiver may have a preconceived idea about the message that blocks understanding. To avoid distractions when you are the receiver, focus on the message, regardless of interruptions. 
Lack of concentration. 
Understanding a message is difficult if either the sender or the receiver is not interested in the topic. Concentrate on the message and show an interest in it, whether you are the sender or the receiver. 
Amount of information. 
Too much information can bore or overwhelm a receiver and too little information can cause frustration and misunderstanding. As a sender, adjust the amount of information you give according to the situation and the receiver. For example, if someone asks you how your day was, you might respond by providing a few highlights. If someone asks you how to operate a piece of equipment, you are more likely to respond with detailed step-by-step instructions. 
Use of jargon. 
Language that is too technical or contains jargon can cause a communication barrier. These words should be used carefully and only when all receivers involved understand them. 
Disorganized message. 
A disorganized message can result in a communication barrier. Consider your purpose before you communicate a message, and express your message in a sequential, organized manner. 
Unsuitable language. 
Using an inappropriate language level in a situation is another common communication barrier. When speaking or writing, consider your audience in terms of personality, age, level of ability, and experience with the language. 
Emotional response. 
It is often difficult to receive a message accurately if you disagree with the message or if there is a personality conflict between you and the sender. Try not to let personal feelings interfere with communication. Respond to the message, not the person sending it. 
Thinking of a response. 
When receiving a message, people are often too busy planning a response to receive the complete message. To avoid a misinterpretation, make sure you understand the entire message before responding. 
Lack of feedback. 
If no feedback is offered, a sender may assume a message is understood. A receiver should provide feedback and ask for clarification 
Activity - Create the following chart in your notebook and fill in. Summarize the paragraphs above. The first one is done for you. Test Worthy notes!
Barriers to Communication	Ways to Avoid the Problem	
		
1.	Distractions	Focus on the message, regardless of interruptions	
2.	Lack of concentration		

		
		
Barriers Scenario 
Below, create a classroom or workplace scenario with three of the communication barriers learned. Make sure they are 3 seperate situations: ie - not all teacher/student :)
Here is a sample to get you started:
SITUATION	BARRIER	CONSEQUENCE	
 	 	 	
A customer service supervisor (sender) is giving a new employee (receiver) too many instructions at once on how to use the telephone 	Disorganized message. 	New employee is frustrated.	

Situation	Barrier	Consequence