The uses of computers in communication are vast and important today. From sending emails and instant messages to video conferencing and online collaboration, computers enable faster and more effective interaction. They connect students, teachers, and professionals across the globe. This is making learning and teamwork easier than ever.
Uses of Computer in Communication Field
Here are common uses of computer in communication:
1. Electronic Mail (Email)
Email is one of the earliest and most trusted forms of digital communication. It allows people to send written messages, files, or documents from one computer to another. Since it is asynchronous, the sender and receiver do not need to be online at the same time. This makes email especially useful for formal communication.
For example, teachers use email to send instructions to students. Students also use email to submit assignments or contact universities.
2. Instant Messaging (IM) and Chat Platforms
Instant messaging is different from email because it happens in real time. When you send a message through WhatsApp, Slack, or Discord, the receiver can reply immediately. This is called synchronous communication. It is fast, convenient, and feels like face-to-face talking, even if the person is far away.
For example, A group of classmates creates a WhatsApp group to prepare for exams. They share quick notes, reminders about test dates, and even voice messages to explain difficult topics. Everyone stays connected without waiting for long responses.
3. Video and Audio Conferencing (VoIP)
Video and audio conferencing have changed the way people connect over distance. Using a computer, a microphone, and a camera, you can now see and hear others in real time, even if they are across the world. This is possible through VoIP which stands for Voice over Internet Protocol.
Applications like Zoom, Microsoft Teams, and Google Meet use this technology to make communication feel more personal. For example, Virtual classrooms allow students to attend lessons from home. Remote tutoring sessions make it easier to understand difficult subjects.
4. Online Collaboration Tools
Communication is not only about talking or sending messages. Sometimes, it is about working together. Collaboration tools like Google Docs, Microsoft Teams, and Slack allow many people to work on the same file or project at the same time.
For example, a group of students can prepare a science report together without meeting in person. One student writes the introduction, another works on the data, and another edits the conclusion—all at the same time. Teachers can also leave comments and feedback directly on the document.
5. Social Media Communication
Social media is more than entertainment. Platforms like Facebook, Twitter (now called X), and Instagram allow people to communicate and share information with large groups.
Students use social media to stay updated about school events, share achievements, or even participate in online campaigns. Teachers and schools use it to post announcements and share resources. At the same time, it allows people to build communities and networks.
6. Forums and Discussion Boards
Forums and discussion boards are like virtual classrooms where people share questions and answers. Platforms such as Quora, Reddit, or even school-based forums allow students to ask for help and exchange ideas.
For example, if you are struggling with a physics problem, you can post your question on a forum. Other students, teachers, or experts can reply with explanations. This form of communication builds problem-solving skills and creates a supportive learning community.
7. Cloud-Based Communication
Cloud storage is another way computers support communication. Platforms like Google Drive, OneDrive, and Dropbox let users store files online instead of on a USB drive. These files can then be shared with others instantly.
Imagine a teacher uploading lecture notes to Google Drive. Students can download the notes anytime, even if they are at home. Similarly, group members working on a project can upload their files to the same folder, making it easy for everyone to access.
8. E-Learning Platforms and Communication
E-learning platforms combine many forms of digital communication in one place. Websites and apps like Moodle, Coursera, and Khan Academy allow teachers to upload lessons, create quizzes, and interact with students.
Communication here is not one-sided. Teachers share knowledge, and students can ask questions, take part in discussions, or submit assignments. Some platforms even have chat rooms or video options for live classes.
9. Business and Professional Communication
Computers are also important for communication in the workplace. In companies, employees use email, video meetings, and collaboration platforms to share information.
For example, customer support teams use chatbots to answer questions. Managers use internal portals to share updates with staff. Teams work on shared presentations for clients. For students, understanding these tools is important because it prepares them for professional life.
10. Multimedia Communication
Communication is not limited to text. Computers make it possible to use pictures, videos, audio, and graphics all together. This is called multimedia communication.
For example, teachers can explain a lesson with slides that include diagrams, videos, and sound effects. Students can create multimedia projects such as video presentations or podcasts. Even advertisements and awareness campaigns rely on multimedia.
