A monadic (a single unit) approach to the communication act would tell us much about the communication skill level, personal characteristics etc. of both source and receiver. In doing so, it might tell us about the general competence of both, but it doesn’t allow us to make any firm predictions about the likely success of the communication. The communication studies teacher may have a seductive tone of voice, may be considered by the students to be ‘one of them’, may have expert and wide-ranging knowledge of communication theory, may have great enthusiasm for the subject; the student may be highly intelligent, articulate, literate and diligent. However, if the student finds communication theory pointless, boring and a load of hot air, then, clearly, fidelity will be far less than desirable.