COM1511 Assignment 1
(COMPLETE ANSWERS)
Semester 1 2025
(846754) - DUE 2 April
2025
, COM1511 Assignment 1 (COMPLETE
ANSWERS) Semester 1 2025 (846754) - DUE
2 April 2025
LEARNING UNIT 1: INTRODUCTION TO COMMUNICATION
1.1 For the purpose of this module, we define
communication as “the sharing of meaning from one
entity to another”. With this definition in mind, discuss
the African perspective of communication. Include
examples of types of communication illustrating the
African perspective of communication. (3) COM1510
COMO1512 COM1501 COM1502
The African perspective of communication is deeply rooted in communal values, oral
traditions, and interconnectedness. Unlike Western models that often emphasize individual
expression, African communication is largely collective, participatory, and multi-sensory—
incorporating verbal and non-verbal forms.
Key Aspects of the African Perspective on Communication
1. Oral Tradition – Storytelling, proverbs, and folktales are used to pass down knowledge, culture,
and history. For example, the griot (oral historian) in West Africa plays a crucial role in
preserving community memory.
2. Non-Verbal Communication – African societies use drumming, dances, and body language to
convey messages. For instance, the talking drum in West Africa can transmit complex messages
over long distances.
3. Communal Participation – Communication is often a group activity where meaning is co-
created. Traditional gatherings like barazas in East Africa allow elders and community members
to discuss important issues collectively.
These examples highlight how African communication goes beyond words, incorporating
cultural symbols, shared experiences, and communal engagement.
1.2 Read the scenario below before you answer this
question: Lucy was running late to an important meeting
and needed to inform her colleague, Thabo, right away.
She quickly dialled his number and spoke into her phone,
hoping he would COM1513 understand her situation.
Though her voice was clear at the start, the noisy
construction equipment outside her office caused her
(COMPLETE ANSWERS)
Semester 1 2025
(846754) - DUE 2 April
2025
, COM1511 Assignment 1 (COMPLETE
ANSWERS) Semester 1 2025 (846754) - DUE
2 April 2025
LEARNING UNIT 1: INTRODUCTION TO COMMUNICATION
1.1 For the purpose of this module, we define
communication as “the sharing of meaning from one
entity to another”. With this definition in mind, discuss
the African perspective of communication. Include
examples of types of communication illustrating the
African perspective of communication. (3) COM1510
COMO1512 COM1501 COM1502
The African perspective of communication is deeply rooted in communal values, oral
traditions, and interconnectedness. Unlike Western models that often emphasize individual
expression, African communication is largely collective, participatory, and multi-sensory—
incorporating verbal and non-verbal forms.
Key Aspects of the African Perspective on Communication
1. Oral Tradition – Storytelling, proverbs, and folktales are used to pass down knowledge, culture,
and history. For example, the griot (oral historian) in West Africa plays a crucial role in
preserving community memory.
2. Non-Verbal Communication – African societies use drumming, dances, and body language to
convey messages. For instance, the talking drum in West Africa can transmit complex messages
over long distances.
3. Communal Participation – Communication is often a group activity where meaning is co-
created. Traditional gatherings like barazas in East Africa allow elders and community members
to discuss important issues collectively.
These examples highlight how African communication goes beyond words, incorporating
cultural symbols, shared experiences, and communal engagement.
1.2 Read the scenario below before you answer this
question: Lucy was running late to an important meeting
and needed to inform her colleague, Thabo, right away.
She quickly dialled his number and spoke into her phone,
hoping he would COM1513 understand her situation.
Though her voice was clear at the start, the noisy
construction equipment outside her office caused her
