Oral and Written Communication

 Our (Indian) education system, in school particularly, stresses written communication much more than oral. As a result, when we get into higher education- college or beyond, our spoken skills are limited. Except for a few students who get into debating or speaking classes.

What I observed in the U.S. is that spoken skills are a lot better among undergrads. Maybe among school students also. Their society needs some socialising skills among opposite genders for dating and so on, which are accepted forms of getting to know potential partners.

Whatever the reasons, our students need a lot more prepping for communication skills. My MBA was the first time I was expected to really participate in a class discussion, and that was when I was 22 plus!

Some training, and opportunities for all through curricular and extra-curricular activities- drama, for example, may be great to develop these skills. Schools and colleges, and individual teachers, can do more in this respect, I think.

Not sure what the impact of social media is, on these two forms of communication among youngsters.. a research topic, maybe?

The Art of Communication

 Sometimes we communicate through words, sometimes not. When we do use them, we could write, or communicate orally. Both are good, and suit certain occasions well. I recently joined Instagram, for instance, where the emphasis is on the visual, and text is incidental, or by the way. 

Facebook, where I have been longer, has an equal emphasis on both the text and visuals. I do a lot of text, having been into writing, so I am quite comfortable with fb. 

About communication, public speaking is an art that can help in certain professions. If you are a politician, persuasive communication can win you votes. If a spiritual Guru, followers. If a teacher, maybe students who are fans.. or become fans. Of course, there's more to teaching, but communication is a very important part. 

Of course, we make statements through how we dress (up or down, as students tend to do), act, or behave in a place where others are present- at a party, or other public places such as airports or when walking in a park. 

Important to understand various facets of communication, both as a receiver and sender.