Oral Versus Written

In written communication a certain element of distraction is removed; all the “ums” and “ahs” as well as other verbal distractions are absent. Fill words can interfere with the message transfer. Written words are also more formal because the intended audience is less defined and the written word may be read by a much larger audience over longer spans of time(Gold. Yet, by sanitizing a communication, a receiver may lose valuable non-verbal communication. Oral presentation is, therefore, a more effective means of communication because the receiver not only hears the words, but has verbal cues from the speaker.

A listener becomes more emotionally involved in the communication process. Words literally come alive and have a shape and tone. The human ear can pick up passion and dedication in a speaker’s voice which intensifies the impact on communication. Verbal cues like pauses and rate of speech are also used to further analyze what is being said.

Cooperation occurs between speaker and listener as meaning is built with feedback from the listener. Speakers strive for a more emotional and participatory responses from their audience(Feldman.

Oral communication is also powerful because it affects people on a subconscious level, as well as, a cognitive level. Feelings of trust or deceit can arise from oral communication. In written communication the subtle cues, that could warn a receiver, are absent. A speaker who acts nervous and stutters extensively can hide this deception in written communication. Likewise, a professional oral presentation can add credibility to what is being said. Where if a receiver only had words, he or she may not be as compelled by the communication.

Written communication has some positives, but oral communication gives the receiver more cues. More cues, given to the receiver, make oral communication a more effective presentation.



Works Cited

Feldman, C. (1991). Oral metalanguage. In D. Olson & N. Torrance (Eds.), Literacy and orality. NY: Cambridge University Press.

Gold, E. (1988). Ronald Reagan and the oral tradition. Central State Speech Journal, 39.