Communication Process (1) The Communication Process Scholars have developed theories to Theories of how we explain how we communicate with each communicate: The other. Linear and Most of these theories are variations on Transactional two generally recognized models — the models Linear model and the Transactional model. Communication Process (2) Communication Process (3) This ancient cave First, let’s define what communication is. painting speaks to us across time through its Communication is symbolic human ability to symbolize. behavior systematized into written, In its representations of verbal, and nonverbal codes. the male figure, the bison, and the rhino, we Click here to learn more about this recognize a 40,000 ancient painting. year-old story of human experience — the hunt. 1 Communication Process (4) Communication Process (5) Symbols can tell us . When we systematize symbols, we create codes for communication. Here are different ways for symbolizing the letter “A.” . what to do. what not to do. where to get help. how to stay safe. Any person, place, thing, feeling, or idea can be symbolized. Communication Process (6) Communication Process (7) Now that you understand the symbolic nature Those who want to communicate must share the same symbol system. of communication, let’s return to the two models of communication mentioned earlier. A model is a representation used to show how individual parts work together to accomplish a specific purpose — in this case communication. 2 Linear Model of Linear Model of Communication (1) Communication (2) Linear model includes A source A message A channel Message Channel A receiver Views communication as a straight line, one The linear model is now way event, in which the process reverses Encodes regarded as being incomplete. Decodes when communication has occurred. Transactional Model of Transactional Model of Communication (1) Communication (2) Communication begins The transactional model emphasizes when there is someone who that communication is circular, on- Sender originates a message and Receiver going, and simultaneous. someone who can receive it. 3 Transactional Model of Transactional Model of Communication (3) Communication (4) SymbolsSymbols Symbols SymbolsSymbols Symbols The sender and receiver must Channel Sender share a common symbol Receiver Sender Encodes Receiver Message system. The sender encodes a message and puts the message into a channel. Transactional Model of Transactional Model of Communication (5) Communication (6) SymbolsSymbols Symbols SymbolsSymbols Symbols The channel is the medium which transmits the message. Channel Channel Sender Encodes Receiver Sender Encodes Decodes Receiver Message Message The message is the content of the The receiver decodes the message communication. using the symbol system shared with the sender. 4 Transactional Model of Transactional Model of Communication (7) Communication (8) SymbolsSymbols Symbols SymbolsSymbols Symbols Channel Channel Sender Encodes Decodes Receiver Sender Encodes Decodes Receiver Message Message Noise can create interference anywhere in the process. Noise can can be external, internal, or semantic — that is, interference created by choices of language. Transactional Model of Transactional Model of Communication (9) Communication (10) Frame of Reference SymbolsSymbols Symbols SymbolsSymbols Symbols Channel Channel Sender Encodes Decodes Receiver Sender Encodes Decodes Receiver Message Message Feedback Loop Feedback Loop The feedback loop allows communicators to Each communicator brings to the process a unique set simultaneously exchange messages. of experiences called a “frame of reference.” 5 Transactional Model of Transactional Model of Communication (11) Communication (12) Frame of Reference Frame of Reference SymbolsSymbols Symbols The lens through Past experience, Channel which we view the beliefs, and values that influence how we Sender Encodes Decodes Receiver world. Message interpret messages. Feedback Loop The communication process occurs within a context of time and place that may influence the communication. Two Communication Models Two Communication Models (Summary) (Summary) The linear model — The transactional model — Communication is a direct, one way event. Sending and receiving are not separate activities. Communicators reverse roles when a Communication occurs simultaneously. message has been sent and received. People are continually sending and receiving messages. 6.