Abstract:
Effective communication in the lecturing environment plays an important role in
assisting lecturers and students in achieving educational outcomes. However, the
problematic nature of communication barriers could impede communication and lead
to ineffective teaching and learning. Consequently, ineffective communication has a
negative impact on student achievement. In contrast, effective communication could
minimise miscommunication and lead to improved student performance. As such, this
study investigated the barriers to effective communication in the lecturing
environment. A quantitative approach, using an interpretive and explorative design,
was used to investigate the extent to which communication barriers influence learners’
performance in the classroom. Data was collected using questionnaires that were
designed for lecturers and students, respectively. The study revealed that
communication barriers do in fact influence students’ performance adversely and that
they are still prevalent in the lecturing environment. The researchers recommend that
barriers should be reduced to improve learner performance.
