Instant Messaging

Term Paper # 101219

Instant Messaging

An examination of how technology-mediated modes of communication de-centre face-to-face communication' and impact language use and structure.

1,761 words () | 4 sources | MLA | 2008 United States

Paper Summary:

The paper discusses how the widespread use of networked computers that comprise the Internet have fundamentally transformed how people communicate and the language structures through which this communication is achieved. In particular, it argues the thesis that the technology known as instant messaging (IM) is transforming language and the social networks that are dependent upon language for maintenance and growth. The argument is made that while this new mode of communication represents a distinct language use and de-centres face-to-face communications, it remains a highly efficient mode of communication for its users who have made a range of innovations in language structure to meet the design of this new medium.

From the Paper:

"It is interesting to note, however, that the popularity of IM does not immediately translate into other forms of text-based communications such as text-messaging via cell phones. Indeed, only one-third of American teens have ever used a cell phone for sending a text message (Bryant et al. 580). This high level of difference suggests that IM is somehow structurally more attractive for its users. In understanding language use and structure in IM it is necessary to therefore see how this form of text-based communication is similar to text messaging and email, and how it is different. Clearly, technologically sophisticated users have radically different perspectives of these different vehicles for communication."

Sample of Sources Used:

Bryant, J. Alison, Sanders-Jackson, Ashley, Smallwood, Amber. "IMing, Text Messaging, and Adolescent Social Networks." Journal of Computer Mediated Communication. 11 (2006), 577- 592.
Danesi, Marcel. A Basic Course in Anthropological Linguistics. Toronto: Canadian Scholars' Press Inc, 2004.
Duthler, Kirk. The Politeness of Requests Made Via Email andVoicemail: Support for the Hyperpersonal Model."Journal of Computer Mediated Communication. 11 (2006), 500-521.
Nastri, Jacqueline, Pena, Jorge, and Hancock, Jeffrey. "The Construction of Away Messages." Journal of Computer-Mediated Communication. 11 (2006), 1025-1045.
Zhao, Shanyang. "Do Internet Users Have More Social Ties?" Journal of Computer-Mediated Communication. 11 (2006), 844- 862.