English as a lingua franca English as a lingua franca English as a lingua franca (ELF) is the use of the English language as "a common means of communication for speakers of different first languages". ELF is also "defined functionally by its use in intercultural communication rather than formally by its reference to native-speaker norms" whereas English as a foreign language aims at meeting native speaker norms and gives prominence to native speaker cultural aspects. While lingua francas have been used for centuries, what makes ELF a novel phenomenon is the extent to which it is used – both functionally and geographically. A typical ELF
Communication in small groups Communication in small groups Communication in small groups is interpersonal communication within groups. Groups generally work in a context that is both relational and social. Quality communication such as helping behaviors and information-sharing causes groups to be superior to the average individual in terms of the quality of decisions and effectiveness of decisions made or actions taken. However, quality decision-making requires that members both identify with the group and have an attitude of commitment to participation in interaction. The first important research study of small group communication was performed in front of a live studio audience in Hollywood California by