Overview
This lecture explains Wilbur Schramm's model of communication, emphasizing feedback, the field of experience, and how communication is a circular, interactive process.
Schramm's Model of Communication
- Schramm expanded on earlier models by adding the concepts of feedback and the field of experience.
- In Schramm's model, both sender and receiver take turns as encoder and decoder.
- Feedback refers to the receiver's response, allowing interactive communication.
- The field of experience represents shared background, knowledge, or context between sender and receiver.
- Effective communication occurs when both parties share a similar field of experience, ensuring mutual understanding.
- Miscommunication can happen if sender and receiver interpret messages differently due to differing fields of experience.
Circular Model and Further Developments
- Osgood and Schramm later revised the model, highlighting how communication is circular and interactive.
- In the circular model, individuals constantly switch roles as encoder, decoder, and interpreter.
- The process continues as feedback promotes ongoing, two-way communication.
Key Terms & Definitions
- Feedback — the receiver’s response to a message, allowing for two-way communication.
- Field of Experience — shared context or common background that helps both sender and receiver interpret messages similarly.
- Encoder — the person sending or formulating a message.
- Decoder — the person receiving or interpreting a message.
- Circular Model — a communication model where sender and receiver continuously exchange roles, making communication interactive.
Action Items / Next Steps
- Review examples of Schramm’s model and identify the field of experience in conversations.
- Prepare to discuss miscommunication scenarios caused by differences in field of experience.