Someone coughing in the audience or walking in late during a presentation are examples of what element in the speech communication process?

a. intrusion

b. message

c. feedback

d. interference

e. disturbance

D). Interference.

Explanation:

'Interference' in general terms is associated with 'obstructing or intervening in between a particular action or process. In 'speech communication process', it is described as the active or passive obstruction created by the audience that often leads to break the flow and concentration of the speaker.

As per the question, 'coughing or walking of the audience' in the middle of a presentation would be exemplified as 'interference' because it would distract the speaker as well as other people sitting in the audience and obstruct their attention which may break the flow of ideas collaboratively and coherently. It would also affect their concentration that may influence the readers' understanding (by blocking their capacity to receive the intended message) of the message or idea and therefore, the desired impact would not be evoked. Thus, option D is the correct answer.