WEEK 2 – MODELS OF COMMUNICATION

DEFINITION:

MODEL
- representation of real-world phenomenon in more abstract terms which can be applied in
more different forms.
- We use models to simplify the concepts of communication process in a graphical form.

LINEAR MODEL
The linear model of communication is a simplified conceptualization of how communication
occurs between two or more parties. It describes communication as a one-way process that flows in a
linear, sequential fashion from sender to receiver. This model is often used to explain basic
communication processes but doesn't capture the complexity of real-life communication.

KEY ELEMENTS OF LINEAR MODEL

- one-way communication
- sender sends the message
- receiver receives only
- no feedback
- involves persuasion, not mutual
understanding

ADVANTAGE OF LINEAR MODEL

- good at audience persuasion

- there are intentional results
- used in mass communication

DISADVANTAGES OF LINEAR MODEL

- communication is not continuous

- no feedback
- not interactive
- difficult to identify if communication was effective

EXAMPLES OF LINEAR MODEL

- sending emails
- receiving messages
- listening to radio and watching tv
INTERACTIVE MODEL

The interactive model of communication is a more dynamic and comprehensive representation

of the communication process compared to linear models. The interactive model acknowledges that
communication is a two-way or multi-way exchange that involves not only the transmission of
messages but also feedback, context, and the active participation of both the sender and receiver.

KEY ELEMENTS OF INTERACTIVE

MODEL
- two-way communication process
- used for new media like internet
- feedback is evident
- interactive but not simultaneous

ADVANTAGES
- there is feedback in mass communication
- new communication models

DISADVANTAGES
- the sender might not know who the other person is (mostly in mass communication)
- feedback is delayed (mostly in mass communication)

EXAMPLES OF INTERACTIVE MODEL

- instant messaging
- Question and Answer (ask questions but need to wait for a reply)

TRANSACTIONAL MODEL
The transactional model of communication is a dynamic and interactive approach to
understanding how communication occurs between individuals or groups. Unlike linear models of
communication that view communication as a one-way process, the transactional model recognizes
that communication is a continuous, ongoing exchange that involves both the sender and receiver
simultaneously. This model emphasizes the importance of mutual influence, feedback, and shared
meaning in the communication process.

KEY ELEMENTS OF TRANSACTIONAL

MODEL
- Sender and receiver are both
communicators – they are equal
- Communication is simultaneous
- Non-verbal gesture is part of
feedback.

ADVANTAGES
- Simultaneous and instant feedback
 - Sender and receiver play the same role

DISADVANTAGES

- Encourages non-verbal communication

- More noise due to communicators talking at the same time

EXAMPLES OF TRANSACTIONAL MODEL

- Talking or listening to friends

DIFFERENCE BETWEEN INTERACTION AND TRANSACTION MODEL OF COMMUNICATION

The Interaction Model of Communication and the Transaction Model of Communication are
both more complex and interactive approaches to understanding communication compared to
traditional linear models. However, they have distinct characteristics and emphasize different aspects
of the communication process. Here are the key differences between the two models:

Nature of Communication:
1. Interaction Model: In the Interaction Model, communication is seen as a two-way or multi-way
process where participants take turns to send and receive messages. It focuses on the back-
and-forth exchange of messages in a dynamic and interactive manner.

2. Transaction Model: The Transaction Model also acknowledges the interactive nature of
communication but places a stronger emphasis on the simultaneous and mutual influence of
participants. It views communication as a continuous, ongoing process where both parties are
sending and receiving messages at the same time.

Feedback:
1. Interaction Model: Feedback is an important component of the Interaction Model, but it may not
always occur simultaneously with the message exchange. Participants take turns providing
feedback after receiving messages.

2. Transaction Model: Feedback is integral to the Transaction Model, and it emphasizes the
constant and simultaneous exchange of messages and feedback between participants. This
model highlights how feedback shapes the ongoing communication process.

Focus on Message Interpretation:

1. Interaction Model: While message interpretation is important in both models, the Interaction
Model emphasizes that participants may have different interpretations of messages, and these
interpretations can influence subsequent communication.

2. Transaction Model: The Transaction Model places a strong emphasis on the mutual shaping of
meanings. It recognizes that participants actively co-construct shared meanings through their
simultaneous messages and feedback.
Complexity of Communication:
1. Interaction Model: The Interaction Model typically portrays communication as a more
sequential and step-by-step process. Participants take turns in sending and receiving
messages.

2. Transaction Model: The Transaction Model represents communication as a complex and

continuous process where participants are actively engaged in multiple communication acts
simultaneously. It accounts for the dynamic nature of real-time conversations.

Application:
1. Interaction Model: The Interaction Model is often used to analyze and understand everyday
face-to-face conversations, interviews, and small group discussions.

2. Transaction Model: The Transaction Model is particularly relevant for studying complex
communication contexts such as interpersonal relationships, group dynamics, and
organizational communication, where multiple parties are actively engaged in communication.

Both models recognize the importance of context, noise, and shared meaning in communication, but
the Transaction Model places a greater emphasis on the simultaneous and mutual influence of
participants and the co-construction of meanings. It is especially suited for analyzing complex and
ongoing communication interactions.