DANCE’S HELICAL COMMUNICATION MODEL

Members:
Tallod, Nina Sofia S.
Tamparong, Xhinjie N.
Tumamao, Kaycee L.
Ursua, Emily Ann C.
Learning Objectives:
• To understand the helical model of communication
• To analyze real-world communication scenarios through the lens of the helical model
• To evaluate the practical implications of the helical model for effective communication.
Content Discussion:
• INTRODUCTION AND DEFINITION
• ABOUT THE AUTHOR
• HISTORY
• THE CREATION OF THE MODEL
• THE PROBLEMS
• OBJECTIONS AND CRITICISMS
• APPLICATION AND IMPLICATION
• RELEVANCE

INTRODUCTION AND DEFINITION

The Helical Model of Communication, proposed by Frank Dance in the 1960s,

offers a holistic framework for understanding how communication evolves. Unlike linear
models of communication that depict communication as a one-way process, the Helical
Model emphasizes the dynamic and continuous nature of communication.
At the core of the Helical Model is the idea that communication is a spiral process
that moves both forward and backward over time. Dance conceptualized communication
as a continuous cycle of interaction, where each exchange builds upon previous
interactions while also influencing future interactions. This cyclic nature of communication
is represented by a helix, symbolizing the ongoing evolution and growth of communication
between individuals or groups.
Frank Dance’s Helical Model of Communication is characterized by several key
features that distinguish it from traditional linear models of communication. These
features highlight the dynamic, continuous, and cyclical nature of communication
processes. Let’s explore the prominent features of Dance’s Helical Model:
Continuous Process- The Helical Model emphasizes the continuous nature of
communication, highlighting how each interaction builds upon previous exchanges.
Rather than viewing communication as a series of isolated events, Dance suggests that
it is an ongoing process that unfolds over time. Unlike linear models that depict
communication as a one-time event with a clear beginning and end, Dance’s model
emphasizes that communication is a dynamic cycle of interaction between individuals or
groups.
Dynamic Interaction- In contrast to linear models that portray communication as a
one-way flow from sender to receiver, the Helical Model emphasizes dynamic interaction
between communicators. It recognizes that communication involves reciprocal
exchanges of messages, with both parties actively contributing to the interaction.
Contextual Influence- The Helical Model acknowledges the influence of context on
communication, recognizing that external factors such as culture, environment, and social
dynamics can shape the communication process. Contextual cues provide additional
layers of meaning to messages and impact how they are interpreted and responded to.
Reciprocity- Communication is depicted as a reciprocal process in the Helical
Model, where both parties contribute to the exchange of messages. Each interaction
influences subsequent interactions, creating a dynamic interplay between the
participants.
Spiral Progression- The helical shape of the model symbolizes the progressive
nature of communication, where interactions spiral upward as they evolve over time.
Despite revisiting similar themes or topics, each iteration of communication brings new
insights and understanding. As communication unfolds, it spirals upward, indicating
growth, development, and increased understanding between communicators. Each
interaction builds upon previous exchanges, leading to deeper levels of engagement and
comprehension.
Feedback Loop- Feedback plays a crucial role in the Helical Model, serving as a
mechanism for closing the communication loop. After receiving a message, the receiver
provides feedback to the sender, indicating their understanding, reaction, or response.
This feedback informs subsequent interactions, allowing communicators to adjust their
messages and improve mutual understanding.
Interconnectedness- Dance’s Helical Model highlights the interconnectedness of
communication processes. It acknowledges that communication is influenced by various
factors, including context, culture, and interpersonal dynamics. These factors shape the
communication process and impact how messages are perceived, interpreted, and
responded to.
Revisiting and Revising- The Helical Model suggests that communication is not a
linear progression but rather a cyclical process that involves revisiting and revising
communication patterns. Communicators may revisit previous topics, ideas, or issues,
approaching them from new perspectives and gaining deeper insights over time.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

The formulator of the Dance’s Helical Communication Model is Frank Dance, an

American communication theorist and professor who made notable contributions to the
field of communication studies. Born on November 9, 1929, he earned his Ph.D. in
Speech from the University of Illinois in 1956. He went on to teach at various universities,
including the University of Denver and the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee, where he
served as a distinguished professor of communication. He focused on understanding the
dynamics of human communication and developing models to explain its complexities
throughout his career. His work encompassed various aspects of communication,
including interpersonal communication, group communication, and organizational
communication.

HISTORY

In the 1960s, Frank Dance, an American communication scholar, responded to the

limitations of dominant linear communication models by introducing his helical model.
Further, the deficiencies of linear models, specifically the Shannon and Weavers
Transmission and Dance noted the deficiencies of models, which simplified
communication as a linear process with distinct components and Dance was dissatisfied
with these linear models due to their oversimplified or misstatement portrayal of real life
communication which leads for Frank Dance to develop a model which conforms to the
real life communication. In its extent, Frank Dance further attempts to capture the dynamic
and evolving nature of human interactions which eventually pushed for Dance to develop
the helical model as a more accurate representation of the complexities inherent in
communication.
Furthermore, in the year 1967, Dance's published an article titled, "The 'Concept'
of Communication," critiqued traditional models and advocated for a more refined
framework. Dance used the helical metaphor which symbolizes a spiral or coil and the
helical model was introduced to convey the on-going and recurring nature of
communication processes as it illustrates communication as an evolutionary process that
resembles a helix that starts slowly and gradually expands its boundaries. Moreover,
communicators share information with an increasing portion of themselves and their
relationships overtime that emphasizes the model's continuous evolution.
This evolutionary aspect is further reflected in the model's recognition and
acceptance within the field of communication studies. The Helical Model of
Communication of Frank Dance was further classified as one of the Transactional Models
which focuses on building relationships through communication. In the past years, it has
become a significant contribution to communication theory, emphasizing the continuous
evolution of communication over time. This model further focuses on the expansion and
contraction of interactions, and the dynamic nature of relationships. The helical model
was initially introduced in Dance's seminal work and became a widely cited and discussed
concept in communication studies. It has contributed to a refined understanding of
communication in various contexts up to this day, leading to the scholars building upon
and applying its principles to diverse communication settings.

THE CREATION OF THE MODEL

 Designed to offer a detailed view of communication process

 Aimed for improved communication
 Emphasizes the complexity of communication
 Uses a helix form to describe the process
 Helix symbolizes growth and evolution
 Communication process depicted as a helix that expands over time
 Main characteristic is its evolutionary nature and as a respond for the deficiencies
of linear models
 To conform to real life communication
 To develop the model as more accurate representation of the complexities inherent
in the communication

THE PROBLEMS

The Dance's Helical model of communication addresses several issues such as:

Complexity- The helical model becomes more and more complex as the interaction
progresses.
Continuous- Unlike one-way communication, it is an ongoing process of
communicating where individuals continuously interpret and respond to messages that
improve over time.
Evolutionary- Through the cycle of communication, the knowledge grows wider or
the spiral becomes more expanded.
Adapting Feedback - Through feedback, the interaction becomes more
meaningful, effective, and improved. The feedback received influenced the next
statement of the sender.
Mitigate Noise- The model suggests that communication is not necessarily derailed
by noise but rather adapts and evolves in response to it.

OBJECTIONS AND CRITICISMS

Complexity- Critics argue that the Helical Model introduces unnecessary

complexity into the understanding of communication processes. Its emphasis on
continuous evolution and the spiral nature of communication interactions may make it
difficult for individuals, particularly those new to the field, to grasp and apply effectively.
Lack of Predictive Power- Some experts suggest that the Helical Model focuses
more on describing communication processes rather than predicting outcomes. This may
limit its usefulness in providing clear guidelines or insights into the effectiveness or
consequences of specific communication behaviors or interventions.
Limited Applicability- While the model may offer insights into certain
communication contexts, critics argue that it may not be applicable to all situations. Some
believe that the Helical Model may not adequately address the unique dynamics of certain
communication contexts or relationships, limiting its usefulness in practical applications.
Insufficient Empirical Support- Critics point out a lack of empirical research
specifically testing and validating the Helical Model's principles. Without robust empirical
support, the model's theoretical underpinnings may be viewed as speculative rather than
evidence-based.
Overlap with Linear Models- While the Helical Model addresses some limitations
of linear communication models, critics suggest that it may oversimplify their utility and
relevance. Linear models still have value in certain contexts, and the Helical Model's focus
on continuous evolution may not fully capture the nuances of all communication
interactions.

APPLICATION AND IMPLICATION

In the field of discipline that we are studying, which is business or commerce, the
model implies that similar to a helical figure, business is cyclical and continuous, non-
repetitive, accumulative, and contextual.
It is cyclical and continuous in a way wherein the helical shape of the model
represents the progressive nature of a business as that unfolds over time. Furthermore,
it is non-repetitive where it includes a lot of revisiting and revising so that the same
mistakes from the past are ensured to not occur again in the later time. They revisit
previous topics, ideas, or issues, approaching them from new perspectives and gaining
deeper insights over time. Moreover, it is accumulative, wherein our original ideas for the
business may just be from small, simple discussions, but as we gain more knowledge
and examine it deeply, the scope gets wider and more complex. Lastly, it is contextual; it
is influenced by time and experience by which all of it contributes to how the entity’s image
and status is shaped. To put it up in an example, a business starts from one small entity,
but as time goes by, it accumulates a lot of trials and errors and various experiences or
different phases which make it evolve.

RELEVANCE

Dance’s Helical Communication model emphasizes the cyclical nature of

communication, suggesting that certain conversations often revisit and build upon
previous topics. In daily personal life, this model can be relevant in various ways, such as
resolving conflicts, strengthening relationships, and enhancing understanding.
For example, consider a group collaborating on a project. They first go over the
objectives, schedules, and roles of each person involved in the project. They work
together to overcome obstacles and move forward, which sparks more in-depth
conversations about approaches to problem solving, how to improve them, and how to
deal with unanticipated difficulties. Their project gets increasingly complex and
progressive over time. They review important choices, evaluate results, and modify their
strategies in light of recent data and input. By using the Helical communication model,
they develop mutual understanding of the complexities of the project as well as trust and
cohesiveness. They collaborate more effectively and efficiently, they take into account
one another’s criteria, make use of one another’s advantages, and work together to
accomplish the project. This model emphasizes how crucial constant communication and
flexibility are to reaching shared objectives in a group environment.

REFERENCES:

Craig, R. T., & Muller, C. W. (Eds.). (2007). "Theorizing Communication: Readings Across
Traditions." Sage Publications.
Chanty team. (2024). “8 Communication Model Types and How They Differentiate.”
https://www.chanty.com/blog/communication-models/
Das, B. (2024, February 9). Dance’s Helical Model of Communication: Explanation
&Features. Retrieved from: StudyMassCom.com.
Dance, F. E. X. (1967). The ‘Concept’ of Communication. Journal of Communication,
17(4), 295–298. DOI: 10.1111/j.1460-2466.1967.tb00270.x
Dance, F. E. X. (1970). The Concept of Communication. New York: Holt, Rinehart and
Winston.
Griffin, E. (2018). "A First Look at Communication Theory." McGraw-Hill Education.
Littlejohn, S. W., & Foss, K. A. (2008). "Encyclopedia of Communication Theory." Sage
Publications.
Mehta, M., (2023). “8 models of communication.” Retrieved from:
https://leverageedu.com/blog/models-of-communication/

ELECTRONIC REFERENCES:
https://www.communicationtheory.org/helical-model-of-communication/
https://www.communicationtheory.org/helical-model-of-communication/
https://studymasscom.com/communication/dance-helical-model-explanation-
features/?expand_article=1 https://studymasscom.com/communication/dance-helical-
model-explanation-
features/#:~:text=The%20Helical%20Model%20suggests%20that,gaining%20deeper%2
0insights%20over%20time.
https://www.engati.com/glossary/communication-model
QUESTIONS

PART I. MULTIPLE CHOICE

Instruction: Read the questions carefully and choose the best answer.

1. He is known as an American Communist Professor and earned his Ph.D. in Speech in

the year of 1956.

a. Frank Sinatra

b. Frank Ocean

c. Frank E.Y. Dancer

d. Frank E.X. Dance

e. I don’t know, stop asking me questions, I don’t know.

2. Which of the following best describes the Model?

a. Symbolizes the continuous evolution, growth, and development of cognitive

function and communication.

b. Symbolizes the continuous evolution and growth of interaction or

communication.

c. Symbolizes the continuous development and regression of interaction.

d. Symbolizes the four nations of Air, Water, Fire, and Earth.

3. This model describes communication as an evolutionary process, starting slowly, and

gradually expanding over time.

a. Dance’s Hellical Model of Communication

b. Dance’s Helical Model of Communication

c. Sing’s Hellical Model of Communication

d. Sing’s Helical Model of Communication

4. Which of the following aspects of communication is not included in what he

encompassed?
 a. Interpersonal Communication

b. Group Communication

c. Intrapersonal Communication

d. None of the above

5. The Helical Model of Communication in the 1960s was developed in response to

limitations of:

a. Three-way Communication Model.

b. Linear Communication Model.

c. Interactive Communication Model.

d. International Communication Model.

PART II. TRUE OR FALSE

Instruction: Read the questions carefully and write TRUE if the statement is correct;
otherwise, write FALSE and the correct answer if the statement is incorrect.

1. The Helix or Spiral pattern is used as a metaphor that represents the gradual or
continuous evolution of the communication as time goes by.

2. The Helical Model emphasizes dynamic interaction between communicators unlike the
other linear models.

3. There are five problems that the Helical Model of Communication is trying to solve such
as Complexity, Continuous, Evolutionary, Adapting Feedback, and Mitigate Noise.

4. Other scholars believes that the Helical Model of Communication is not sufficient in
terms of predictive power towards communication.

5. The Helical Model of Communication is created in response to the deficiencies of the

Linear Models.