Identify the person who defined development communication for the first time in 1970s
(A) Christina Ogan
(B) Rosemary Righter
(C) Nora C Quebral
(D) William Hachten
Correct Ans: (C)
Explanation:
In the 1970s, Nora C. Quebral became the first scholar to formally define development communication, which completely shifted the way communication scholars and practitioners understood media’s role in society. She described it as “the art and science of human communication applied to the speedy transformation of a country and the mass of its people from poverty to a dynamic state of economic growth that makes possible greater social equality.”
With this definition, Quebral clearly positioned development communication not just as a field within mass media, but as a tool for social transformation. She believed communication could empower rural communities, promote education, improve health awareness, and strengthen participation in democratic processes. This concept gained traction in Asia, especially in the Philippines and India, and it still guides development communication strategies today.
Moreover, her framework emphasized participation, empathy, and two-way communication, moving away from traditional top-down approaches. Development communication, under her vision, wasn’t about media broadcasting alone—it was about interaction, dialogue, and community empowerment.
Let’s examine the incorrect choices.
Christina Ogan (A) contributed to international communication research but did not define development communication.
Rosemary Righter (B) focused on international political issues, not this field.
William Hachten (D) studied global media systems but did not introduce this definition.
Therefore, the correct answer is Nora C. Quebral (C), who laid the foundation for using communication as a catalyst for development.
In conclusion, Quebral’s pioneering work in the 1970s continues to shape how media professionals, NGOs, and governments use communication to uplift marginalized populations, inspire change, and bridge information gaps. Her vision remains relevant in today’s global conversations around sustainable development and inclusive communication.
