Advertising and Public Relations · TEE · papers
Q2A · Illustrate the Types of Online Communication
2025-02-25 · Semester V re-exam
Actual TEE paper · 100 marks · Q1 compulsory + any four complete Q2–Q7
2025-02-25 · Q2A · Previous-paper question. Illustrate the Types of Online Communication. [10 marks]
Answer
Definition. Online communication uses internet-connected channels to exchange information synchronously or asynchronously.
In simple words. Live call aur baad mein read hone wala email—dono online, timing different.
Understand it step by step
- Synchronous: live chat or video calls allow immediate exchange but require common availability.
- Asynchronous: email, posts and messages can be read later and provide a record, but delay and missing tone can create misunderstanding.
- Advantages: distribution, multimedia, dialogue and coordination across locations.
- Limitations: access barriers, misinformation, distraction, privacy risks and rapid spread of errors. A deleted message may remain in screenshots.
- Good practice: identify the sender, use a descriptive subject, keep instructions clear, check facts and attachments, respect consent and respond appropriately.
See it in use
The five forms expected in the February 2026 question
| Form | Online example |
|---|---|
| Verbal/oral | Spoken explanation on a video call |
| Nonverbal | Facial expression, gesture and tone during that call |
| Written | A carefully worded email or chat |
| Active listening | Clarifying a customer’s concern and summarising it before responding |
| Visual | A labelled diagram or accessible product demonstration |
This classification concerns the forms and listening skills used online; synchronous/asynchronous instead classifies timing. State which basis you are using.
Six channel forms in M1 notes pp7–8
| Form | How it works | Illustrative use and limitation |
|---|---|---|
| A written message is delivered to addressed recipients and can be read later. | Send an approved brief with a clear subject and attachments. Large unsolicited mailings can damage trust; delivery is not proof of reading. | |
| SMS | A short text is delivered through a mobile messaging service. | A consent-based appointment reminder supplies time and location. Ordinary SMS does not require an internet connection on the recipient’s phone, although an organisation may send it through an online gateway. |
| Instant messaging | A messaging application supports rapid exchanges and may retain messages for later reading. | A project group confirms a revised deadline. Participants need not always be online simultaneously; do not confuse the platform name with guaranteed synchronous use. |
| Online forum | Messages and replies are organised into discussion threads. | A moderated customer forum collects questions about a product. Public answers require accuracy and moderation; individual posts may not represent all customers. |
| Shared whiteboard | Participants view or edit a visual canvas through connected software. | An agency team arranges storyboard scenes during a remote meeting. Permissions, accessibility and a saved record matter. |
| VoIP / video conferencing | Voice over Internet Protocol carries voice using IP networks; a video meeting adds visual communication. | A client briefing allows questions and screen sharing. Connectivity, sound, time zones and participant access can affect the exchange. |
Three communication requirements in the notes
- Clear and concise language: state the main action, define unfamiliar terms and avoid unexplained abbreviations.
- Appropriate tone: consider how words may be interpreted without face-to-face context; humour and sarcasm may not transfer well.
- Complete responses: answer the actual question, clarify missing information and give useful next steps. Completeness does not mean an unnecessarily long message.
Technical access, suitable software, accessibility and privacy arrangements support these three message-quality requirements. The notes mention Google Jamboard as an example; it is historical because the app ended on 31 December 2024. Learn the shared-whiteboard concept rather than relying on that discontinued product. Google’s end-of-life notice.
Requirements
- An appropriate device and working channel/connection.
- Accessible software and compatible content.
- Digital literacy and clear language.
- Privacy, permissions and appropriate identity/security arrangements.
- A feedback or support route for failed access or misunderstanding.