An Essay about
Development Communication
by
Dr. Nora C. Quebral
Development communication is the practice of achieving a positive social change
for the marginalized people. It is known to alleviate various political, social, economic,
and developmental problems that prohibits an individual’s growth. This is where
practitioners focus on addressing underdevelopment issues and provide a solution for
the betterment of those affected. As Quebral stated, we must be in favor for the poor.
Development Communication is an art, as it requires creativity in order to convey or
voice out the messages to all people. Media has been the channel of distribution of
messages of all people since then. Various media platforms starting from print to digital
have also been used by practitioners to disseminate information. Over time, media has
evolved into a more convenient tool in spreading awareness and information to people.
Development communication relies on scientific methods to be able to obtain
evidence-based data. It requires logical and critical analysis on how to address issues
in a society. As we live in a modern era, we have different technologies that could help
us improve the promotion of our advocacies. For instance, we have the internet that
makes it possible for people to be interconnected online.
Development Communication as a human communication must focus on
transformation rather than transmission. It must conduct changes rather than just
passing along messages to people. It must influence other people positively in engaging
their lives to a better living. Development Communication must promote socio-economic
growth and focus on aiming for a greater quality of life for all individuals, especially for
the marginalized. Help these people realize their true potential and become better
individuals not only for them but also for their children and the next generation
