COM1513
ASSIGNMENT 1 SEMESTER 1 2026
UNIQUE NO.
DUE DATE: 24 MARCH 2026
, Communication in the context of the organisation - COM1513
ASSIGNMENT 01
WRITTEN ASSIGNMENT
QUESTION 1
Difference Between the Transmission and Transactional Models of
Communication
The transmission model of communication views communication as a linear process
in which a sender encodes and transmits a message to a receiver through a specific
channel. The focus is on message delivery and minimizing noise that may distort
meaning (Shannon & Weaver, 1949). Feedback is limited, and communication is largely
one-directional.
In contrast, the transactional model of communication views communication as a
dynamic, simultaneous process in which participants act as both senders and receivers.
Meaning is co-created through interaction, feedback, shared experiences, and context
(Barnlund, 1970). This model acknowledges that communication is influenced by
cultural, social, and psychological environments.
Gift of the Givers Foundation operates as a humanitarian NGO involved in disaster
relief, healthcare support, education, and poverty alleviation across Africa and
internationally (Gift of the Givers Foundation, 2024). Its internal communication involves
coordination among management, field workers, volunteers, and logistics teams.
Although the transmission model may be useful during urgent disaster situations where
clear, direct instructions are required, the transactional model is more effective for
overall internal communication. Humanitarian operations require continuous
feedback, cultural sensitivity, and collaborative problem-solving. Effective disaster
management depends on real-time information sharing and team coordination (Heath &
O’Hair, 2020).
ASSIGNMENT 1 SEMESTER 1 2026
UNIQUE NO.
DUE DATE: 24 MARCH 2026
, Communication in the context of the organisation - COM1513
ASSIGNMENT 01
WRITTEN ASSIGNMENT
QUESTION 1
Difference Between the Transmission and Transactional Models of
Communication
The transmission model of communication views communication as a linear process
in which a sender encodes and transmits a message to a receiver through a specific
channel. The focus is on message delivery and minimizing noise that may distort
meaning (Shannon & Weaver, 1949). Feedback is limited, and communication is largely
one-directional.
In contrast, the transactional model of communication views communication as a
dynamic, simultaneous process in which participants act as both senders and receivers.
Meaning is co-created through interaction, feedback, shared experiences, and context
(Barnlund, 1970). This model acknowledges that communication is influenced by
cultural, social, and psychological environments.
Gift of the Givers Foundation operates as a humanitarian NGO involved in disaster
relief, healthcare support, education, and poverty alleviation across Africa and
internationally (Gift of the Givers Foundation, 2024). Its internal communication involves
coordination among management, field workers, volunteers, and logistics teams.
Although the transmission model may be useful during urgent disaster situations where
clear, direct instructions are required, the transactional model is more effective for
overall internal communication. Humanitarian operations require continuous
feedback, cultural sensitivity, and collaborative problem-solving. Effective disaster
management depends on real-time information sharing and team coordination (Heath &
O’Hair, 2020).
