In our “Writing as Communication” course we do just that, write to communicate. We use both the ritual and transmission models in our class. When Steph gives us an assignment, it is a ritual for us to complete. That is, we are expected to interpret the assignment and participate in using the semiotic method to create something new (a piece of writing) to add to a cultural conversation. Traditionally the classroom has been seen as a place where transmission communication occurs. I think Steph works to create a ritual communication in our class by having group work and peer-review of assignments.
The idea of communication as culture is largely seen as a ritual communication, for good reason. Culture is created through communication and we all know communication varies by culture. I will argue here that communication as culture can be ritual or transmission depending on the nature of the culture. For example, I would say some culture in the USA could be seen as transmission communication. Much popular media might be looked at as “…communication as the transmission of signals or messages over distance for the purpose of control; characterized by the desire to increase the speed and effect of messages as they travel in space.” The nightly news and much other television is one-way communication. On the other hand, within that traditional “one way” transmission communication there also exists ritual communication, the creation of identity and community. The internet and other communication media allow for greater participation and a co-creation of meaning.
