To what extent do digital communication applications influence the language skills of pupils and students? Digital communication technologies are changing our way of life. Language is no exception. Language experts argue that the deterioration of written language is due to the increase in the use of digital communication.
What is meant by digital communication?
Digital communication includes exchanging messages with others via SMS, message messengers (MSN/Windows Live, Whatsapp, Ping), e-mail and social media. This way of communicating connects people and makes it possible to be in constant contact with each other.
Huge numbers!
Sending text messages by telephone has become so popular that an average of 85% of mobile phone users in Europe do this. Globally, the use of text messaging has also developed very quickly. In 2000, only 17 billion text messages were sent. In 2010 it reached a number of almost 6,100 billion (6,100,000,000,000!). That’s almost 892 text messages per person worldwide!
A deterioration of language skills?
It all started with the so-called SMS language: The use of abbreviations, new words, phonetic spelling, unconventional use of punctuation marks, incomplete sentences, code switching and emoticons in text messages to keep it fun and as short as possible.
Most people believe that the use of SMS language causes a deterioration in language skills among students. Although text messages are short, so many messages are sent that it can have an overall influence on language skills.
Many experts agree with this, others provide interesting counterarguments. Some experts believe that the use of abbreviations, among other things, shows a new creative way of communication. It promotes ingenuity and actually expands our language skills. For example, there are cases in which academics catch themselves using text message language in reports and theses.
As I mentioned earlier, this way of communicating constantly connects people. They develop a strong interest in knowing what is going on in the lives of others. Some conversations or topics of discussion would never have arisen in face-to-face dialogues. Sometimes it’s because we’re too anxious, other times it’s forgetfulness. There are also situations where sending a text message is more appropriate than a phone call; for example, when you are in a library or on a train (everyone hates people who talk loudly about personal matters).
All in all, there are many pluses and minuses for today’s way of communicating .
What is your opinion?
Personally, I am very curious about your opinion and reactions to the statement below. Have your say by leaving a comment!
“Has the use of SMS language had a bad influence on the writing skills of pupils and students (and perhaps on yourself)?”
- Yes. I believe that pupils/students adopt the learned writing styles of SMS language in, among other things, their school assignments.
- Maybe. While SMS language may have some impact on writing skills, I don’t think it’s a major problem.
- No. I believe that schoolchildren are able to communicate one way with their friends and another way in the classroom. They can keep the two forms of communication separate.
- None of the above. Leave your comment below.