Interactive model

Definition

The interactive model of communication is a two-way process that emphasizes the role of feedback between communicators. Unlike linear models, this model acknowledges that both sender and receiver actively participate in the communication process, allowing for adjustments and clarifications based on the feedback provided. This dynamic exchange enhances understanding and fosters a more engaged dialogue.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The interactive model highlights that communication is not just about sending messages, but also about receiving and responding to them.
2. This model incorporates elements like context, which can significantly affect how messages are interpreted and understood.
3. Interactive models can be applied in various settings, including personal conversations, business meetings, and public speaking scenarios.
4. Feedback loops in the interactive model allow for clarification and improvement in understanding between communicators.
5. The interactive model supports the idea that communication is influenced by shared experiences and background between participants.

Review Questions

• How does the interactive model differ from linear models of communication in terms of participant roles?
  • The interactive model differs from linear models by recognizing that both the sender and receiver are active participants in communication. In linear models, communication is viewed as a one-way process where the sender transmits a message without expecting immediate feedback. However, in the interactive model, the receiver's feedback is essential for shaping ongoing dialogue and ensuring mutual understanding, making it a more dynamic and collaborative approach.
• Discuss how feedback functions within the interactive model and why it is crucial for effective communication.
  • In the interactive model, feedback serves as a vital component that facilitates real-time adjustments between communicators. It allows senders to understand how their message is received and interpreted, leading to clarifications or changes if misunderstandings arise. This ongoing exchange enhances engagement and ensures that both parties are aligned in their communication efforts, making feedback essential for effective dialogue.
• Evaluate the significance of context in the interactive model of communication and its impact on understanding between communicators.
  • Context plays a significant role in the interactive model by influencing how messages are perceived and understood. Factors such as cultural background, shared experiences, and situational dynamics can shape both encoding and decoding processes. This means that communicators must be aware of their context to navigate misunderstandings effectively. The ability to adapt messages based on contextual cues enhances clarity and fosters more productive interactions, underscoring the importance of context in achieving effective communication.

Related terms

Feedback:

The responses or reactions of the receiver that are sent back to the sender, indicating how the message was interpreted.

Noise:

Any external or internal interference that disrupts the clarity of the message during communication.

Encoding and Decoding: The processes through which a sender translates thoughts into a message (encoding) and a receiver interprets the received message (decoding).