- Back-channel
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In telecommunications
A back-channel (also reverse channel or return channel) is typically a low-speed, or less-than-optimal, transmission channel in the opposite direction to the main channel.
"See:
Return channel "In diplomacy
A back channel in the language of
diplomacy is an unofficial channel ofcommunication betweenstate s or other political entities, used to supplement official channels, often for the purposes of discussing highly sensitive policy issues. "See also"Track II diplomacy .In linguistics
In
linguistics , back-channeling is the practice of giving positive comments, such as "uh-huh" or "yes" to the other speaker, to encourage further talk or to confirm that one is listening. In Chinese and particularly Japanese, back-channeling is very common, to the extent that non-native speakers may perceive it to be excessive or distracting. InAmerican Sign Language , back-channeling is a major part of communication.Fact|date=February 2008In business
In
business , back-channeling is an organizational practice that involves bypassing recognized or official communication processes, usually by sharing information anonymously up the reporting structure at least two levels, in order to create vulnerability at the level(s) skipped. It is a means by which lower-level members can manipulate perceived power differentials with a superior through a more senior accommodating manager in the organization.Fact|date=February 2008In medicine
In
medicine , back-channeling is much the same as in the business application which involves "inappropriate organizational practice" as it comprises the disparate exchange of data on a patient in utilizing their medical records.Fact|date=February 2008 TheVeterans Administration may do less back-channeling than other medical systems because they openly admit to "flagging" problem patients in their computer system, and they strive to givedisclosure and apologies for medical mistakes.Fact|date=February 2008 On the whole, any back-channeling efforts in medicine are usually done as the result ofrisk management practices.Fact|date=February 2008In public speaking
In
public speaking , back-channeling is the practice of electronically passing notes among some or all of the audience/students during the lecture. When sanctioned, this practice is particularly useful for speakers who are attempting to dynamically modify their presentations based on immediate feedback from the audience. When unsanctioned, this practice is often very distracting for the presenter. Meebo and Twitter are common back channeling devices, although any chat room style device works well.Fact|date=June 2008External links
* [http://www.cs.utep.edu/nigel/bc/ (Linguistics) Back-Channel Facts website]
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