Nonverbal Communication Observation
Overview
The Nonverbal Communication Observation allows students to apply knowledge about nonverbal communication in the real world by observing others in public while interpreting nonverbal messages.
Nonverbal Channels Observation
Observe a public situation in which a number of people interact, such as the grocery store, Target, Lowes, Walmart, or a restaurant.
Briefly describe the situation you observed.
Next, answer the following questions about the nonverbal communication normally used in this setting.
- How much distance do people keep between themselves and others?
- Does this distance vary as the situation changes? For example, what happens when it becomes more or less crowded?
- Does the distance vary among different people with different relationships?
- What kinds of behaviors occur if the normal distances are violated?
- Explain the use of markers in this setting.
- What kind of eye communication is used in this setting?
- Is there any use of haptics in this setting? Explain how.