ORAL COMM: Models of Communication and Communication Barriers

Shannon-Weaver Model

known as mother of all communication models

Shannon-Weaver Model

originally designed for telecommunications and is mathematical in origin

Shannon-Weaver Model

a linear model of communication that provides a framework for analyzing how messages are sent and received

feedback

Shannon-Weaver Model lacks one essential element in communication which is

mathematical model

Shannon-Weaver Model is sometimes referred to as

noise

a key feature of the Shannon-Weaver Model

Encoder

machine or a person that converts the idea into signals that can be sent from sender to receiver

Channel

the infrastructure that gets information from the sender and transmitter through to the decoder

Channel

sometimes called the medium

Receiver

the end-point of Shannon and Weaver’s original linear framework

Receiver

this is the step where the person finally gets the message

Noise

interrupts a message while it is on the way from the sender to the receiver

Internal noise

happens when a sender makes a mistake encoding a message or a receiver makes mistake decoding the message

External noise

happens when something external or not in the control of the sender or receiver impedes the message

Schramm’s Interactive Model

communication is incomplete unless and until the sender receives feedback from the recipient

Wilbur Schramm

Schramm’s Interactive Model is proposed by

Wilbur Schramm

father of mass communication

shared field of experience

it is central to understanding messages in Schramm’s Interactive Model

Field of experience

shared context or background between the sender and receiver

Encoding and decoding

these 2 are integral to Schramm’s Interactive Model

White’s Communication Model

recognizes feedback as a part of the communication process

feedback

creates a loop, making communication a recurring process

White’s Communication Model

a sequential and cyclical process

White’s Communication Model

it encompasses all communication forms, not just verbal

communication

involves converting thoughts into symbols, which can include spoken words, written text, gestures, facial expressions, or visual symbols

Transactional model

a two-way process with the inclusion of feedback

Transactional model

the exchange of messages between sender and receiver where each take turns to send or receive message

Transactional model

more interactive

Communication

way to build, maintain, and shape relationships between people

Communication

helps define the relationship between individuals

Shannon-Weaver Model

effective in technical or mass communication settings, such as radio broadcasts or telecommunication

Schramm’s Interactive Model

common in interpersonal communication where mutual understanding and shared context are vital

White’s Communication Model

ideal for understanding the detailed steps in communication processes, such as teaching, public speaking, or counseling

Transactional Model

simultaneous and dynamic communication

Transactional Model

Communication is non-linear, meaning both sender and receiver act as communicators simultaneously.

Transactional Model

Recognizes that communication is influenced by context (social, relational, cultural) and is continuous.

Transactional Model

Most applicable in face-to-face, dynamic, and interactive communication settings, such as conversations, debates, and counseling

Physical barriers

tangible obstacles in the environment that hinder communication

Noisy environment

Loud noises make it difficult to hear or focus.

Distance

Being physically far from the speaker can hinder communication.

Poor equipment

Faulty microphones, phones, or internet issues can disrupt messages.

Language barriers

occur when people cannot communicate effectively due to differences in language, use of jargon, or unfamiliar accents or dialects.

Different languages

Speaking different dialects can create confusion.

Use of jargon

Technical or complex terms unfamiliar to the listener can impede understanding.

Jargon

refers to the set of specialized vocabulary in a certain field.

Accents and pronunciations

Difficulty understanding various accents can create a barrier.

Perpetual barriers

how individuals perceive or interpret the world around them, often based on their past experiences, cultural background, emotions, or preconceived notions.

Emotional barriers

refer to how strong emotions, such as anger, stress, or excitement, can affect the way messages are sent, received, or interpreted. These may cloud judgment, distort perception, or hinder the ability to listen and respond effectively.

Lack of confidence

stems from feelings of insecurity, fear, or self-doubt, which can hinder effective communication.

Lack of interest

If the topic doesn’t engage the listener, they might not pay attention.

Fear of criticism

Worrying about being judged can prevent open communication.

Stress

It is a communication barrier because it negatively affects how we process information, articulate thoughts, and interact with others. When under stress, our cognitive, emotional, and physiological responses can hinder clear and effective communication.