What are the key elements of effective communication?

What are the key elements of effective communication? Think of a situation you were involved in (work place, school, or personal) that you were involved in that required you to use one of the key elements to resolve a conflict. Provide a brief background to the situation, the communication that took place, and explain how the conflict was resolved. if you had to go through a similar situation again, what would you do differently, if anything?