, COM1513 Assignment 1 Semester 1 2026 - DUE 24 March 2026
QUESTION 1
1.1 Key Difference Between the Transmission and Transactional Models
The transmission model of communication views communication as a linear, one-
way process. A sender encodes a message, transmits it through a channel, and
the receiver decodes it. The primary focus is on the accurate delivery of the
message. Feedback is either limited, delayed, or not emphasised. The receiver is
largely passive in this model.
In contrast, the transactional model views communication as a dynamic, two-
way and simultaneous process. All participants are both senders and receivers at
the same time. Meaning is co-created through interaction, and feedback is
continuous. This model recognises the influence of context, relationships, culture,
and noise in shaping understanding.
The key difference, therefore, lies in direction and interaction:
The transmission model is one-directional and message-focused.
The transactional model is interactive and relationship-focused,
emphasising shared meaning and continuous feedback.
1.2 Most Effective Model for Internal Communication
For an organisation such as the Gift of the Givers Foundation, the transactional
model would be more effective for internal communication.
This organisation operates in multiple regions and responds to disasters,
humanitarian crises, and community needs. Its operations involve coordination
between management, field workers, medical teams, volunteers, and
administrative staff. In such an environment, communication cannot be purely
one-way.
QUESTION 1
1.1 Key Difference Between the Transmission and Transactional Models
The transmission model of communication views communication as a linear, one-
way process. A sender encodes a message, transmits it through a channel, and
the receiver decodes it. The primary focus is on the accurate delivery of the
message. Feedback is either limited, delayed, or not emphasised. The receiver is
largely passive in this model.
In contrast, the transactional model views communication as a dynamic, two-
way and simultaneous process. All participants are both senders and receivers at
the same time. Meaning is co-created through interaction, and feedback is
continuous. This model recognises the influence of context, relationships, culture,
and noise in shaping understanding.
The key difference, therefore, lies in direction and interaction:
The transmission model is one-directional and message-focused.
The transactional model is interactive and relationship-focused,
emphasising shared meaning and continuous feedback.
1.2 Most Effective Model for Internal Communication
For an organisation such as the Gift of the Givers Foundation, the transactional
model would be more effective for internal communication.
This organisation operates in multiple regions and responds to disasters,
humanitarian crises, and community needs. Its operations involve coordination
between management, field workers, medical teams, volunteers, and
administrative staff. In such an environment, communication cannot be purely
one-way.
