In terms of communication methods, what do Skype and phone calls both represent?

Skype and phone calls represent oral communication because they involve the direct exchange of spoken words between individuals. Oral communication is characterized by the use of voice and sound to convey messages, allowing for immediate feedback and interaction. This form of communication fosters engagement and facilitates nuanced conversations through tone, inflection, and verbal cues, which are particularly important in conveying emotions and intentions.

In contrast, the other options involve different methods of conveying information. Written communication relies on text and can include emails, letters, or reports, lacking the immediate verbal exchange present in phone calls and Skype. Non-verbal communication encompasses body language, gestures, and facial expressions, which also do not apply to a phone call or Skype when considering their primary form of interaction. Lastly, visual communication generally refers to information conveyed through visual aids such as charts, graphs, or images, which again is not the focus of spoken dialogue in Skype and phone calls. Thus, the choice of oral communication accurately reflects the commonality shared by both communication methods.