CMST&101: The Transactional Model of Communication

Overview

• Course Title: CMST&101
• Topic: Transactional Model of Communication
• Focus: Understanding the key components and processes involved in communication as a transactional model.

Transactional Model of Communication

• Definition: A framework that explains communication as a dynamic and reciprocal process.
• Key Characteristics:
  • Continuous flow of messages
  • Simultaneous sending and receiving by participants
  • Interdependence between communicators

Components of the Transactional Model

• Sender and Receiver: In transactional communication, roles are interchangeable, meaning both communicators are simultaneously senders and receivers.
• Message: Ideas, information, feelings, or thoughts that are communicated.
• Channel: The medium through which the message is sent (e.g., verbal, non-verbal, electronic).
• Feedback: Responses from the receiver that are sent back to the sender, influencing the subsequent messages.
• Noise: Any interference that distorts or hinders the message from being received as intended. It can be physical, psychological, or semantic.
• Context: The environment or situation in which communication takes place, including cultural and social influences.
• Encoding and Decoding: The process of transforming thoughts into a communicable form (encoding) and interpreting received messages (decoding).

Importance of the Transactional Model

• Highlights the dynamic nature of communication.
• Emphasizes the role of context and feedback in understanding communication.
• Recognizes that communicators influence each other.

Applications

• Everyday Interactions: Understanding that communication is a two-way process can improve personal and professional relationships.
• Conflict Resolution: Being aware of the continuous exchange can help in addressing misunderstandings.
• Effective Communication Skills: Enhances skills such as active listening and empathetic engagement.

Conclusion

• The transactional model offers a comprehensive view of how communication works in reality, accounting for the complexities of human interactions.