The different types of communication according to mode can be broadly categorized into three main modes, each with subtypes and variations:

1. Interpretive Communication

• This is a one-way communication mode where the receiver interprets the message conveyed by the sender in its original form.
• The focus is on understanding, interpreting, and analyzing the message without active negotiation between sender and receiver.
• Common in contexts like classroom learning where the audience interprets spoken or written content

2. Presentational Communication

• Another one-way mode where a speaker presents information to an audience without direct interaction or feedback.
• The message is often rehearsed or scripted, requiring the presenter to understand the audience’s language and culture to ensure effective communication.
• Typical examples include speeches, presentations, and broadcasts

3. Interpersonal Communication

• This mode involves two-way communication with active exchange and negotiation of meaning between sender and receiver.
• It includes face-to-face conversations, phone calls, video chats, and any direct interaction where feedback is immediate

Additional Modes and Types Based on Medium and Channel

Verbal Communication

• Oral Communication: Spoken words through conversations, meetings, phone calls, or video calls.
• Written Communication: Messages conveyed via letters, emails, reports, text messages

Nonverbal Communication

• Communication without words, using body language, facial expressions, gestures, posture, tone of voice, and other cues

Visual Communication

• Use of images, graphics, charts, and videos to convey messages, often to simplify complex information or enhance engagement

Examples of Mixed Modes

• Typewriting only: Communication solely through typed text, e.g., emails or chat messages.
• Handwriting only: Communication via handwritten notes or comments.
• Voice only: Phone calls or verbal conversations.
• Video only: Video calls or video messages.
• Combinations such as handwriting and typing, typing and video, handwriting and video, or voice and typing are also common in digital communication

Summary

Mode| Description| Examples
---|---|---
Interpretive| One-way reception and interpretation of message| Reading a book, listening to a lecture
Presentational| One-way presentation to an audience| Public speeches, webinars
Interpersonal| Two-way interactive communication| Conversations, phone/video calls
Verbal (Oral/Written)| Spoken or written words| Meetings, emails, reports
Nonverbal| Body language, facial expressions, gestures| Facial cues, posture
Visual| Use of images, charts, videos| Infographics, presentations

These modes can overlap and are often combined depending on the communication context and technology used