Nonverbal communication conveys information through multiple channels, including auditory, visual, and tactile. Consider what happens when a classmate presents an idea during a discussion. As she speaks, you listen to and interpret the meaning of her words (verbal communication). But at the same time, you’re noticing various nonverbal channels—her vocal pitches and tones (auditory); her facial expressions, gestures, postures, and appearance (visual); and possibly physical contact (tactile), such as if she’s sitting next to you and happens to touch you. You receive all this information simultaneously and use it to interpret her meaning: Is she excited about her idea? Unsure? Tired? Her nonverbal communication helps you make sense of the words she says and the meaning she intends.