Transactional model of communication

Definition

The transactional model of communication is a dynamic process that views communication as an ongoing exchange where both participants simultaneously send and receive messages. This model emphasizes that communication is not linear but rather a continuous interaction influenced by context, feedback, and noise, allowing for real-time adjustments and adaptations in the message being conveyed.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The transactional model illustrates that both participants are active in shaping the conversation, as they both send and receive messages simultaneously.
2. This model highlights the importance of context, showing how environmental factors can influence communication effectiveness.
3. In digital communication, the transactional model allows for rapid feedback loops through features like instant messaging and social media interactions.
4. The presence of noise in digital environments can affect clarity, leading to misinterpretations in online communication.
5. Transactional communication adapts over time; each interaction builds on previous exchanges, making it essential for effective relationship building.

Review Questions

• How does the transactional model of communication differ from earlier models in terms of participant roles?
  • The transactional model differs from earlier linear models by recognizing that both participants in communication are simultaneously sending and receiving messages. In earlier models, communication was often viewed as a one-way process where one party transmitted a message to a passive receiver. The transactional model emphasizes interaction and mutual influence, meaning both parties actively shape the conversation, allowing for real-time adjustments based on feedback and context.
• In what ways can noise impact the effectiveness of communication within the transactional model?
  • Noise can significantly impact the effectiveness of communication within the transactional model by creating barriers to understanding. This interference can be physical, such as background sounds during a conversation, or psychological, such as preconceived notions affecting how a message is interpreted. When noise occurs, it may distort or obscure the intended message, leading to misunderstandings between participants and complicating their ability to adapt their responses based on feedback.
• Evaluate how digital communication platforms enhance or hinder the principles of the transactional model.
  • Digital communication platforms enhance the principles of the transactional model by facilitating instant feedback and enabling multiple channels for interaction. Features like video calls, chats, and social media allow participants to engage in real-time dialogue, fostering dynamic exchanges. However, they can also hinder effective communication due to increased potential for noise—such as technical issues or misinterpretations through text—which may complicate understanding. Ultimately, while these platforms promote interaction, they also require users to be mindful of how digital formats can alter traditional communicative dynamics.

Related terms

Feedback: The response from the receiver back to the sender that indicates whether the message was understood or how it was received.

Noise: Any external or internal interference that disrupts the clarity of the communication process, making it harder for the intended message to be understood.

Context: The environment or situation in which communication takes place, including cultural, social, and physical factors that can affect interpretation.