The interactive model of communication is a two-way process of exchanging ideas, messages, and information. It involves an active exchange between two or more parties, where each party takes turns as the sender and receiver of the message. This communication style is commonplace in both the workplace and our daily lives, allowing for expedient information exchange through email, text messages, and even social media posts.
In the interactive model, participants alternate positions as sender and receiver, generating meaning by sending messages and receiving feedback within physical and psychological contexts. This model is different from the traditional transmission model, which views communication as a linear, one-way process.
The key components of the interactive model of communication include:
- Participants: The senders and/or receivers of messages in a communication encounter.
- Messages: The verbal or nonverbal content being conveyed from sender to receiver.
- Encoding: The process of converting the message into a form that can be understood by the receiver.
- Decoding: The process of interpreting the message by the receiver.
- Channels: The medium through which the message is transmitted, such as face-to-face conversation, email, or social media.
- Feedback: The response or reaction to the message, which helps in the understanding and adjustment of the communication process.
The interactive model of communication is also known as the convergence model, as it deals with the exchange of ideas and messages taking place both ways from sender to receiver and vice versa. This model is applicable to various forms of communication, including human-human, human-machine, and even social media interactions.
