Interactive Model - Communication Notes

Introduction

The Interactional Model of Communication depicts communication as a dynamic process where individuals interchangeably assume roles as senders and receivers. 

How did Interactive model evolve?

• The linear model of communication presents a simplistic view where communication flows in one direction, from the speaker to the listener, without any interaction. This model fails to account for the active role of the listener and the feedback they provide. Wilbur Schramm recognized this limitation and proposed a more dynamic interactive model.

Interactive Model

• In Schramm's interactive model, communication is a two-way process where both the speaker and the listener are engaged in a continuous exchange. The listener does not passively receive the message; instead, they provide feedback to the speaker, creating a dialogue. This feedback can be verbal, non-verbal, or a combination of both.
• The model emphasizes that effective communication occurs when the speaker and listener share common experiences or backgrounds. This shared understanding facilitates better interpretation of messages and responses.
• For instance, if a speaker and listener have similar cultural backgrounds, the listener is more likely to understand the speaker's intentions and respond appropriately.
• Schramm's interactive model reflects the complexity of real-life communication, where both parties are actively involved in sending and receiving messages, along with feedback.

Schramm elaborates on this model in his book "The Process and Effects of Communication."

Concepts of Schramm’s Communication Model

Schramm’s model of communication includes the source which is also known as the encoder, the message or the signal, and the destination which is also recognized as the decoder. The model addresses the sociological aspects involved in communication. Communication or commonness can take place if the fields of the source and destination overlap as shown in the figure below as the field of experience.

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Concepts of Schramm’s Communication Model

• Encoder: The encoder, also known as the source or sender, is responsible for initiating the communication process by encoding and transmitting the message.
• Decoder: The decoder, or receiver, is the individual or group intended to receive and interpret the message. Their role is crucial in understanding the information conveyed by the encoder.
• Interpreter: The interpreter plays a vital role in making sense of the message. This involves understanding the context, language, and any potential nuances in the communication.
• Field of Experience: The field of experience refers to the shared knowledge, experiences, and cultural backgrounds of both the encoder and decoder. When their fields of experience overlap, mutual understanding is more likely to occur.
• Circular Model: Schramm's model is circular, indicating that communication is an ongoing and dynamic process. It is not a one-time event but involves continuous exchange and feedback between the parties involved.

Advantages

• Circular Communication: This approach allows both parties to express their views, fostering a more inclusive and comprehensive dialogue.
• Dynamic Nature: The model's adaptability makes it applicable in various everyday situations where communication is constantly evolving.
• Active Participation: Both the sender and receiver are engaged participants in the communication process, with the ability to switch roles as needed.
• Semantic Noise Identification: The concept of semantic noise helps pinpoint issues during message interpretation, particularly those arising from language differences or unclear phrasing.
• Feedback Mechanism: Feedback is a crucial element that indicates whether the message was understood as intended, enhancing the clarity of communication.
• Interpretation Improvement: The focus on interpretation aids in making communication more effective by considering the nuances of understanding.
• Psychological Impact: The field of experience, which considers the psychological impact on understanding, goes beyond traditional methods and enriches the communication process.
• Contextual Factors: The inclusion of contextual factors, such as environmental influences on message interpretation, adds depth to the understanding of communication significance.

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Disadvantages

• Complexity of Communication Levels: The model faces challenges when dealing with multiple levels of communication and intricate processes, making it less effective in such scenarios.
• Limitation to Two Sources: Schramm's model is primarily designed for two sources communicating. When multiple sources are involved, the model becomes complicated and less applicable.
• Misinterpretation of Messages: There is a risk that the message may be interpreted differently from the sender's intent, leading to misunderstandings and miscommunication.