Verbal communication and written communication are each in their own class. Each of these classes can be equally effective or equally ineffective. The impression you wish to make is largely dependant on your audience size and particular role (That is, are they opposition, neutral parties, or in agreement already?).
Also to be considered is the interest of the audience. If your audience is disinterested then communication is at a disadvantage to begin with and you might enterprise on delivering your communication orally so you can add emphasis and intonation to spice it up. If the audience is already interested and the communication is informative, written words can be used effectively.
Even with this in mind you must consider the ‘type’ of information your communicating. What is the gravity of the situation?
Which method of communication a person opts to use is largely dependant on these factors and then some. There may not be universal answer to the question regarding the efficacy of the methods in terms of which is ‘better’ than the other.
Tuesday, November 20, 2007
Monday, November 19, 2007
Speak, write, communicate!
There is a variety of ways to effectively communicate a message. There is written, oral, performed, artistic, and even body language. More often than not, the size of the impact a message will have depend on the audience the message is for. Both oral communication and text can be extremely successful, but in different ways.
Written text is accessible to anyone. It can be translated and mass produced to reach masses and it can be preserved for generations. Religious references are a perfect example of this. The Bible is one of the most widely dispersed books to this day and the Qur’an has been preserved in its original form for thousands of years.
On the other hand, there are downsides to written communication as well. For example, text is often written with a bias that may get lost when read. There are also tones that may be missed, such as sarcasm. Many times the reader may interpret someone’s writing from their own perspective based on their mood.
Oral presentation has been practiced for as far back as communication forms can be traced. From folklore to politics, public speaking has been an art form. The right tone of voice and word choice can be the difference of complete persuasion or retaliation. Seeing someone speak can also be effective because body language can have an immense influence. Another advantage of oral communication is that it can be delivered immediately. With today’s technology, verbal communication is just a click away.
Unfortunately oral presentation can be misconstrued. If a speech is not recorded, the reliability is jeopardized. It is up to the audience to communicate with accuracy which is rarely consistent.
Overall the efficiency of both oral and written communication depends upon the communicator, their desired message, and how they need the message conveyed.
Appeal of Spoken Language
The appeal of the spoken word is much greater than that of the written word. The spoken word allows for a connection to a variety of audiences, lessens confusion of sentence meaning, and therefore allows complete understanding. The use of spoken language is also easier to learn and one must be knowledgeable in the spoken language before the written is acquired. Thus communication using the spoken word is the basis for written language. One does not need to have reading or writing skills in order to communicate with speech.
In written word there can be some confusion as to who is “speaking” as well as to how something is meant. With any written sentence, one can convey different meanings by use of voice. Wikipedia says that “written English has no standard method for directly emulating the effects of tone of voice, volume, and other such subtleties,” in turn a piece of expression is lost in written word (2007). In The Difference Between the Spoken Vs The Written Word, writing is downgraded below verbal speech by stating “Verbatim transcripts of ordinary conversation reveals ... The stops, starts, ellipses, bizarre syntax, vague references, unmotivated digressions, and sudden changes of direction are nothing like the sanitized ‘linear’ version which usually emerges in print”(1994). The atmosphere of a speech is lost when it is converted to written form.
Spoken words can also allow the speaker to improve public speaking and memory skills, In the book Life of Life: An Introduction to the Astrology of India, the authors quote the spoken word of Thamus, the god king of Egypt, “the invention will produce forgetfulness in the minds of those who forget to use it, because they will not practice their memory. Their trust in writing produced by external characters which are no part of themselves, will discourage use of their own memory within them"(2003). One must conquer the spoken language first, then use written in order to preserve the spoken.
References
De Fouw, H., & Svoboda, R., (2003) Light on Life: An Introduction to the Astrology of India. Retrieved November 19, 2007 from http://books.google.com/books?id=jBzSLNNbTWwC&pg=PA1&lpg=PA1&dq=spoken+word+vs+written&source=web&ots=zjiWAjgQsp&sig=q9WR5mjboAFUPK0OJN0eXVpTQ0w#PPA1,M1
Standard Written English. (2007, September 25). In Wikipedia, The Free Encyclopedia. Retrieved November 19, 2007, from http://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=Standard_Written_English&oldid=160148343
The Difference Between The Spoken Vs The Written Word. (1994, February) PEDIATRICS. 93 (2) pp. 204. Retrieved November 19, 2007, from http://pediatrics.aappublications.org/cgi/content/abstract/93/2/204
In written word there can be some confusion as to who is “speaking” as well as to how something is meant. With any written sentence, one can convey different meanings by use of voice. Wikipedia says that “written English has no standard method for directly emulating the effects of tone of voice, volume, and other such subtleties,” in turn a piece of expression is lost in written word (2007). In The Difference Between the Spoken Vs The Written Word, writing is downgraded below verbal speech by stating “Verbatim transcripts of ordinary conversation reveals ... The stops, starts, ellipses, bizarre syntax, vague references, unmotivated digressions, and sudden changes of direction are nothing like the sanitized ‘linear’ version which usually emerges in print”(1994). The atmosphere of a speech is lost when it is converted to written form.
Spoken words can also allow the speaker to improve public speaking and memory skills, In the book Life of Life: An Introduction to the Astrology of India, the authors quote the spoken word of Thamus, the god king of Egypt, “the invention will produce forgetfulness in the minds of those who forget to use it, because they will not practice their memory. Their trust in writing produced by external characters which are no part of themselves, will discourage use of their own memory within them"(2003). One must conquer the spoken language first, then use written in order to preserve the spoken.
References
De Fouw, H., & Svoboda, R., (2003) Light on Life: An Introduction to the Astrology of India. Retrieved November 19, 2007 from http://books.google.com/books?id=jBzSLNNbTWwC&pg=PA1&lpg=PA1&dq=spoken+word+vs+written&source=web&ots=zjiWAjgQsp&sig=q9WR5mjboAFUPK0OJN0eXVpTQ0w#PPA1,M1
Standard Written English. (2007, September 25). In Wikipedia, The Free Encyclopedia. Retrieved November 19, 2007, from http://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=Standard_Written_English&oldid=160148343
The Difference Between The Spoken Vs The Written Word. (1994, February) PEDIATRICS. 93 (2) pp. 204. Retrieved November 19, 2007, from http://pediatrics.aappublications.org/cgi/content/abstract/93/2/204
Interdependence
The ability of the spoken word to communicate better or worse than the spoken word depends upon the talents of both the speaker and the writer. Speeches are little more than the verbal manifestation of the written word and the power of each is effectiveness of one is dependent upon the other. Speeches when given with the appropriate rhythm, intensity, and tone are capable of eliciting a greater emotional response than prose. A speech written by a powerful and talented writer in the hands of a speaker who does not adhere properly to the writer’s voice or punctuation becomes little more than an announcement.
Kennedy may well have been a great President, and might have given more impassioned speeches than the one in which he announced the Cuban Missile Crisis but in this case his delivery did not do this text justice. It may be an effect of his charming back east accent, but often throughout this speech he does not adhere to the punctuation ascribed rhythm. The transcript which he likely had before him read this way, “But this secret, swift, and extraordinary buildup” a reader might well have assumed his copy looked like this, “But this secret swift and extraordinary buildup.” Such a rhythmic device when used correctly gives the words a greater degree of emotional strength.
When Kennedy announced the Cuban Missile Crisis he was given a text which in its written form was likely to elicit a great degree of emotion, specifically fear. Perhaps when he practiced this speech his listener felt too a great a degree emotion. In this case the written version of this speech held a greater degree of power than its verbal companion.
Kennedy may well have been a great President, and might have given more impassioned speeches than the one in which he announced the Cuban Missile Crisis but in this case his delivery did not do this text justice. It may be an effect of his charming back east accent, but often throughout this speech he does not adhere to the punctuation ascribed rhythm. The transcript which he likely had before him read this way, “But this secret, swift, and extraordinary buildup” a reader might well have assumed his copy looked like this, “But this secret swift and extraordinary buildup.” Such a rhythmic device when used correctly gives the words a greater degree of emotional strength.
When Kennedy announced the Cuban Missile Crisis he was given a text which in its written form was likely to elicit a great degree of emotion, specifically fear. Perhaps when he practiced this speech his listener felt too a great a degree emotion. In this case the written version of this speech held a greater degree of power than its verbal companion.
Written vs Oral
I do believe that written text can communicate just as well as an oral presentation. There are some definite benefits to an oral presentation that do not come with the written word, such as emotion and persuasion. But there are also benefits of the written word that are not found in oral presentations. Therefore, I believe that they can both communicate effectively.
With an oral presentation the speakers tone can portray great emotion behind the words to give a better context to what the writer is trying to communicate. Even with proper punctuation the written word can be misinterpreted in tone and emotion. Just look at how confused people become with email language and emotional tone. That’s why emotocons were invented.
On the other hand, the written word can be more thought out and detailed as you have all the time in the world to complete it. With an oral presentation, the speaker can forget or skip parts that may have added to the content, or in listening, the audience could miss a part. With the written word, it is simple to go back over and reread parts that you misunderstood, unlike an oral presentation. (Unless you record it or videotape it)
I am still a firm believer in the ideal that "the pen is mightier than the sword," but I also think that a good speech can rally people together and form change just as well as the written word. The written word and spoken word can both communicate effectively in different ways. Overall, I just think it depends on the author/speaker as to which they prefer and what form of communication works best for each person.
With an oral presentation the speakers tone can portray great emotion behind the words to give a better context to what the writer is trying to communicate. Even with proper punctuation the written word can be misinterpreted in tone and emotion. Just look at how confused people become with email language and emotional tone. That’s why emotocons were invented.
On the other hand, the written word can be more thought out and detailed as you have all the time in the world to complete it. With an oral presentation, the speaker can forget or skip parts that may have added to the content, or in listening, the audience could miss a part. With the written word, it is simple to go back over and reread parts that you misunderstood, unlike an oral presentation. (Unless you record it or videotape it)
I am still a firm believer in the ideal that "the pen is mightier than the sword," but I also think that a good speech can rally people together and form change just as well as the written word. The written word and spoken word can both communicate effectively in different ways. Overall, I just think it depends on the author/speaker as to which they prefer and what form of communication works best for each person.
Written or Spoken Communication?
Perhaps some would say that the spoken word is the most effective form of communication. For the purpose of general information exchange and everyday communication, I would agree. However, when dealing with the transfer of knowledge, learning, and the preservation of information written text is more effective.
Mass amounts of knowledge can be transferred through the spoken word. Take a traditional college classroom as an example. But accompanying in-class oral lectures and discussions are text books and notes. Without these written forms of knowledge, the learning and retention of the material would be much more difficult.
The vast majority of public speakers write out their speeches before hand. Occasionally notes are referred to during oral presentations. For example, there is an entire team of people who write speeches for the president. Actors and actresses also must learn their lines by first reading screen plays. Plays and movies begin as written words before they are transformed into a visual and oral medium.
After the inception of writing, important information has been (and continues to be) recorded in written form. Text allows for information and knowledge to be accurately preserved and transmitted through the years. Prior to written language the accurate recordation of events, rules, and other knowledge was all but impossible. Writing also allows for communications to be preserved. Email, letters, and legal documents are preserved forms of written communication.
In addition to afore mentioned reasons, the spoken word is based upon the construct of the written word. The rules followed for writing are applied to speech and provide uniformity between the two mediums.
Mass amounts of knowledge can be transferred through the spoken word. Take a traditional college classroom as an example. But accompanying in-class oral lectures and discussions are text books and notes. Without these written forms of knowledge, the learning and retention of the material would be much more difficult.
The vast majority of public speakers write out their speeches before hand. Occasionally notes are referred to during oral presentations. For example, there is an entire team of people who write speeches for the president. Actors and actresses also must learn their lines by first reading screen plays. Plays and movies begin as written words before they are transformed into a visual and oral medium.
After the inception of writing, important information has been (and continues to be) recorded in written form. Text allows for information and knowledge to be accurately preserved and transmitted through the years. Prior to written language the accurate recordation of events, rules, and other knowledge was all but impossible. Writing also allows for communications to be preserved. Email, letters, and legal documents are preserved forms of written communication.
In addition to afore mentioned reasons, the spoken word is based upon the construct of the written word. The rules followed for writing are applied to speech and provide uniformity between the two mediums.
To Speak or to Write?
The spoken word is much more effective than the written word when the speaker’s intention is to arouse emotion in his or her audience. While the written word is certainly capable of sparking an emotional response, hearing the author say the words adds the extra boost needed to more effectively reinforce the intended message. There is less room for misinterpretation in a spoken speech, particularly if the listener is present with the speaker and sees as well as hears the emotions of the speaker. A speaker can present emotions such as pride, sadness, or happiness. Written words do not contain any tears, laughter, anger or disappointment in their delivery. These emotions are only added if the reader incites them. One disadvantage that literature has compared to oral presentation is that words can mean different things to different people. For example, when the goal of a speech is to persuade the audience to agree with the speaker’s opinion on a topic that is controversial in nature, the speaker might obtain a more successful outcome if they understand the emotional attachment that he or she feels.
Additionally, the spoken word has the opportunity to impact a larger audience. An illiterate person is able to receive a spoken message but not a written one. If an illiterate person has someone read to them, the message is subject to the reader’s interpretation and not the interpretation of the writer. A speech that was meant to be read in a certain way can have its meaning twisted according to the feelings and intentions of the person who is reading it. Something delivered with a tone of sympathy and understanding can lose its effect if it is delivered with sarcasm and bitterness. Although both forms of communication can be very useful when trying to get a message to the masses, the spoken word is more useful when trying to elicit an emotional response.
Additionally, the spoken word has the opportunity to impact a larger audience. An illiterate person is able to receive a spoken message but not a written one. If an illiterate person has someone read to them, the message is subject to the reader’s interpretation and not the interpretation of the writer. A speech that was meant to be read in a certain way can have its meaning twisted according to the feelings and intentions of the person who is reading it. Something delivered with a tone of sympathy and understanding can lose its effect if it is delivered with sarcasm and bitterness. Although both forms of communication can be very useful when trying to get a message to the masses, the spoken word is more useful when trying to elicit an emotional response.
Ode to the Spoken Word
This is a hard subject for me. I have a lot of experience with public speaking and feel very passionately about teaching kids the art of it. But at the same time I enjoy online classes where I have to prove myself through the written word. When I looked at the assignment this week it made me appreciate that I had training in the public speaking realm of the world. In listening to them I felt inspired to do something that changed something for the better. I wanted to step out and conquer those that were doing wrong. And after my revelations I thought about if I would have felt the same way if I had read those same life changing words. The answer was no. There was something missing. When I read the words "I speak to you as a friend, as one who knows of your deep attachment to your fatherland, as one who shares your aspirations for liberty and justice for all. And I have watched and the American people have watched with deep sorrow how your nationalist revolution was betrayed--and how your fatherland fell under foreign domination." (JFK, 1962) Hearing those words struck a cord in my heart, it made me believe and feel for those people. When I read them I still felt bad but it wasn't to the extent that I felt when I heard it. When you hear someone speak you feel their emotions in their voice, you can feel the compassion or anger. That is the difference between the written and spoken word. The ability to feel the emotion.
Plow Men Take My Herb?
It is difficult to determine whether oral presentation or written text is a more effective means of communication because humans are made up of rational and emotional components of understanding. For the most part, music and speech, forms of oral communication, can relay an emotional message much more effectively than a piece of written text. Listening to Bob Dylan is going to evoke more meaning and be more effective with an emotional message than simply reading his lyrics. Though what we must understand is that writing is a part of musical and speech processes. By utilizing writing (rational) and sound (emotional) they have a theoretical advantage, so what really might be the deciding factor is who is writing the text and performing the speech/music. Another thing to wonder is that sometimes we cannot understand what is said in some music. Obviously it is ineffective communication if we cannot understand what is being said. Or is it? It depends on what is trying to be conveyed. Now, this is when written lyrics (text) could be more effective in communicating, because we could read what is being said. However, understanding the words in music is not essential to experiencing the emotional message of it because we are able to bypass words and focus on tone and emotionality. When I listen to Dylan, I cannot understand what he is saying half the time anyway. On the other side of things, poetry along with great novels have the ability to evoke some serious emotion, so I find myself still torn at the end of this discussion. The consensus might be that written communication can be more effective to rational understanding and oral communication to emotional understanding. However, they both display each quality, so this is a much more complex question to answer in absolute terms.
Sunday, November 18, 2007
Oral Versus Written
In written communication a certain element of distraction is removed; all the “ums” and “ahs” as well as other verbal distractions are absent. Fill words can interfere with the message transfer. Written words are also more formal because the intended audience is less defined and the written word may be read by a much larger audience over longer spans of time(Gold. Yet, by sanitizing a communication, a receiver may lose valuable non-verbal communication. Oral presentation is, therefore, a more effective means of communication because the receiver not only hears the words, but has verbal cues from the speaker.
A listener becomes more emotionally involved in the communication process. Words literally come alive and have a shape and tone. The human ear can pick up passion and dedication in a speaker’s voice which intensifies the impact on communication. Verbal cues like pauses and rate of speech are also used to further analyze what is being said.
Cooperation occurs between speaker and listener as meaning is built with feedback from the listener. Speakers strive for a more emotional and participatory responses from their audience(Feldman.
Oral communication is also powerful because it affects people on a subconscious level, as well as, a cognitive level. Feelings of trust or deceit can arise from oral communication. In written communication the subtle cues, that could warn a receiver, are absent. A speaker who acts nervous and stutters extensively can hide this deception in written communication. Likewise, a professional oral presentation can add credibility to what is being said. Where if a receiver only had words, he or she may not be as compelled by the communication.
Written communication has some positives, but oral communication gives the receiver more cues. More cues, given to the receiver, make oral communication a more effective presentation.
Works Cited
Feldman, C. (1991). Oral metalanguage. In D. Olson & N. Torrance (Eds.), Literacy and orality. NY: Cambridge University Press.
Gold, E. (1988). Ronald Reagan and the oral tradition. Central State Speech Journal, 39.
A listener becomes more emotionally involved in the communication process. Words literally come alive and have a shape and tone. The human ear can pick up passion and dedication in a speaker’s voice which intensifies the impact on communication. Verbal cues like pauses and rate of speech are also used to further analyze what is being said.
Cooperation occurs between speaker and listener as meaning is built with feedback from the listener. Speakers strive for a more emotional and participatory responses from their audience(Feldman.
Oral communication is also powerful because it affects people on a subconscious level, as well as, a cognitive level. Feelings of trust or deceit can arise from oral communication. In written communication the subtle cues, that could warn a receiver, are absent. A speaker who acts nervous and stutters extensively can hide this deception in written communication. Likewise, a professional oral presentation can add credibility to what is being said. Where if a receiver only had words, he or she may not be as compelled by the communication.
Written communication has some positives, but oral communication gives the receiver more cues. More cues, given to the receiver, make oral communication a more effective presentation.
Works Cited
Feldman, C. (1991). Oral metalanguage. In D. Olson & N. Torrance (Eds.), Literacy and orality. NY: Cambridge University Press.
Gold, E. (1988). Ronald Reagan and the oral tradition. Central State Speech Journal, 39.
Oral Communication Wins....
Written text cannot communicate as effectively as oral presentation. Written text is a good medium for communication but more effective communication is done orally. The upside of writing is that it can be edited many times to make it as perfect as possible. When written text in submitted it most likely has been dissected and revised to make sure the original intention is communicated. Another risky part of writing is once it is made public it is available for critique from almost anyone. Writing is an average form of communication but lacks important necessary communication elements. These necessary communication elements are the backbone of oral presentation.
Oral communication is as effective as written communication. Oral communication adds more emotion and personalization aspects. This emotion gives it the edge over written communication. Being able to add personal aspects in communication help make it more effective and efficient. Oral communication also allows the addition of physical motions that help solidify points while communicating. These motions include the use of hands, facial expressions, body movements, and voice fluctuation. Oral communication is written communication with the addition of acting. Because of this oral communication is more effective than written text.
With all communication techniques it is very important that the author is aware of what they are saying at all times. Communication is much like toothpaste. Once toothpaste is out of the tube it cannot be sucked back in. As soon as a word is out of a person’s mouth it cannot be taken back. Being aware of what you are going to say and how you say it is critical to all forms of communication.
Oral communication is as effective as written communication. Oral communication adds more emotion and personalization aspects. This emotion gives it the edge over written communication. Being able to add personal aspects in communication help make it more effective and efficient. Oral communication also allows the addition of physical motions that help solidify points while communicating. These motions include the use of hands, facial expressions, body movements, and voice fluctuation. Oral communication is written communication with the addition of acting. Because of this oral communication is more effective than written text.
With all communication techniques it is very important that the author is aware of what they are saying at all times. Communication is much like toothpaste. Once toothpaste is out of the tube it cannot be sucked back in. As soon as a word is out of a person’s mouth it cannot be taken back. Being aware of what you are going to say and how you say it is critical to all forms of communication.
Written Text Vs. Oral Presentation
Written text and oral presentation are both important. It is hard to differentiate which is most effective; each can each be equally effective in different circumstances.
Differences between the processes of speaking and writing are apparent. Writing is not simply speech written down on paper. Learning to write is not a natural extension of learning to speak. (http://www2.wmin.ac.uk/eic/learning-skills/literacy/sp_vs_writ_dif.shtml). Likewise, speaking, or giving oral presentations, is not simply the art of reading what has been written down.
Much work goes into oral presentations and writings. However, I would argue that the written word is longer lasting because it is referenced more frequently. For example, we are still studying and reading the historic writing The Epic of Gilgamesh.
Up until the invention of audio recording we were not able to reference speeches. The only way to reference them was to research their written format. When speeches are written down they lose effectiveness. Inflection and emotion are often lost. Speakers have audiences that give them feedback; writers have to consider their audience is not currently present.
Before listening to the speech John F. Kennedy gave regarding the Cuban Missile Crisis, I read the written text. While reading the text I found the information informative. However, when I listened to the former President speak, I was moved by the urgency, care, and concern in his voice. When he said, The path we have chosen for the present is full of hazards, as all paths are--but it is the one most consistent with our character and courage as a nation and our commitments around the world” I could feel his American pride.
Written text and oral presentation are both equally effective, but have different uses.
Sources:
SPEAKING VERSUS WRITING
http://www2.wmin.ac.uk/eic/learning-skills/literacy/sp_vs_writ_dif.shtml
Kennedy, John F. (1962, October 22) On the Cuban Missile Crisis
http://ecampus.uwyo.edu/ec/crs/default.learn?CourseID=2609764&47=1126592&dt=11%2F12%2F2006+7%3A31%3A51+PM&UnitNumber=12&COID=64&UDPK=24111336&UPK=4490961&bhcp=1
Differences between the processes of speaking and writing are apparent. Writing is not simply speech written down on paper. Learning to write is not a natural extension of learning to speak. (http://www2.wmin.ac.uk/eic/learning-skills/literacy/sp_vs_writ_dif.shtml). Likewise, speaking, or giving oral presentations, is not simply the art of reading what has been written down.
Much work goes into oral presentations and writings. However, I would argue that the written word is longer lasting because it is referenced more frequently. For example, we are still studying and reading the historic writing The Epic of Gilgamesh.
Up until the invention of audio recording we were not able to reference speeches. The only way to reference them was to research their written format. When speeches are written down they lose effectiveness. Inflection and emotion are often lost. Speakers have audiences that give them feedback; writers have to consider their audience is not currently present.
Before listening to the speech John F. Kennedy gave regarding the Cuban Missile Crisis, I read the written text. While reading the text I found the information informative. However, when I listened to the former President speak, I was moved by the urgency, care, and concern in his voice. When he said, The path we have chosen for the present is full of hazards, as all paths are--but it is the one most consistent with our character and courage as a nation and our commitments around the world” I could feel his American pride.
Written text and oral presentation are both equally effective, but have different uses.
Sources:
SPEAKING VERSUS WRITING
http://www2.wmin.ac.uk/eic/learning-skills/literacy/sp_vs_writ_dif.shtml
Kennedy, John F. (1962, October 22) On the Cuban Missile Crisis
http://ecampus.uwyo.edu/ec/crs/default.learn?CourseID=2609764&47=1126592&dt=11%2F12%2F2006+7%3A31%3A51+PM&UnitNumber=12&COID=64&UDPK=24111336&UPK=4490961&bhcp=1
Friday, November 16, 2007
I didn't get that... could you put that in writing?
Do written text or an oral presentation rely heavily on the intended audience for it to be effective? I believe it does and I think that text is the most effective overall. Let me demonstrate why this is the most effective form of communication. First, written text holds accountability whereas oral presentations can be denied or ignored even if it has been recorded. Secondly, written text relies on the reader’s understanding whereas an oral presentation tends to rely on images such as props or PowerPoint.
Since we have been discussing events from the past that has both used written text and oral presentation, it is only appropriate to address one of the most heartfelt written texts that found its end during the beginning of the Cold War. This effective form of communication was the written text of Anne Frank’s Dairy. I believe that if she had orally presented what had happened to her from her dairy it would have lost something. It would have dulled the pure emotions that a stranger could relate to when they read about her sorrows (Frank, 1945).
Oral presentations are flashy and do not have the endurance as written text. Long after any recordings of oral presentations are gone there will be writing and as much as I love technology we can not be certain it will remain reliable as writing. An example of written text endurance that was written approximately 2,000 years ago and was found a couple of years after WWII were the Dead Sea Scrolls (The Ancient Library of Qumran and Modern Scholarship). This I believe is the optimal proof of endurance.
To conclude, I have to say that oral presentations were intended for fast information, where written text takes awhile to absorb and can be reread if one forgets its meaning.
http://www.ibiblio.org/expo/deadsea.scrolls.exhibit/Today/today.html
http://www.annefrank.com/ (Last Entry was 1945, Published in 1947)
Since we have been discussing events from the past that has both used written text and oral presentation, it is only appropriate to address one of the most heartfelt written texts that found its end during the beginning of the Cold War. This effective form of communication was the written text of Anne Frank’s Dairy. I believe that if she had orally presented what had happened to her from her dairy it would have lost something. It would have dulled the pure emotions that a stranger could relate to when they read about her sorrows (Frank, 1945).
Oral presentations are flashy and do not have the endurance as written text. Long after any recordings of oral presentations are gone there will be writing and as much as I love technology we can not be certain it will remain reliable as writing. An example of written text endurance that was written approximately 2,000 years ago and was found a couple of years after WWII were the Dead Sea Scrolls (The Ancient Library of Qumran and Modern Scholarship). This I believe is the optimal proof of endurance.
To conclude, I have to say that oral presentations were intended for fast information, where written text takes awhile to absorb and can be reread if one forgets its meaning.
http://www.ibiblio.org/expo/deadsea.scrolls.exhibit/Today/today.html
http://www.annefrank.com/ (Last Entry was 1945, Published in 1947)
Wednesday, November 14, 2007
The Values of Audio-Text and Written-Text as Abstract Entities
It is easy to say that written words are secondary to spoken words. But, it needs to be recognized that both oral and written words are simply different systems of symbols which are used for communication, and are therefore equal. For either system, the goal is communication, and the specific system is the means or transmitter for that (communication) goal; following Shannon and Weaver’s Information Theory of Communication as described by John R Baldwin et al, everything that is communicated begins as an idea, which is then translated linearly, then presented with either speech or the written word, which is then received and decoded into the original idea (p.66-68) (at least, this is what happens during a successful transition). Because both systems are (used as) tools, it is not adequate to say that one is able to communicate better than the other. The fundamental difference between the two, in terms of their effectiveness, is not their abilities, but is why they are as effective as they are or are not. This can be found in our learning system, in which we learn to speak and hear before we learn to read and write. We communicate through audio language more because it is what we were taught first. After speech communication is learned, (usually) children begin learning to communicate through text. It should be noted that writing systems (at least those that I am aware of) are based on spoken text. To write, one must translate an idea into spoken text, and then use the spoken text as a basis in order to translate to written text. But, this process of learning has been enforced upon the two communication systems. If written text was learned first, then written text would probably be used more, and verbal text would be based on written text. Therefore, the two systems are equal, but utilized differently.
Baldwin, John R., Stephen D. Perry, and Mary Anne Moffitt. (2004). Communication theories for everyday life. Pearson Education Inc.
Baldwin, John R., Stephen D. Perry, and Mary Anne Moffitt. (2004). Communication theories for everyday life. Pearson Education Inc.
Tuesday, November 6, 2007
Everyone is a good writer in Cyberspace
On the internet, good writing is certainly in the eye of the searcher. The filtration system for quality is no where near that of
There have been several times when I’ve written for my internet classes and I have felt a little lost. Without the inspiration of close classmates or the assessment of a professor, I often have trouble knowing where to start. There is a dual sense of isolation because without the professor and classmates, the feeling of immediate expectation is diminished. I tend to feel less inclined to focus on the details.
Monday, November 5, 2007
Waving Through Words
Corresponding with all of you in the online classroom and more specifically through this Blog, I imagine I feel somehow like Adam Smith and David Hume must have felt when they wrote to each other through their respective writings. Sometimes someone in the class would respond to something I wrote, or I to them in reference to an idea, argument, opinion, and the mentioning of that person will not be explicit. Yet somehow there was a dialogue through the seemingly independent texts. I did not realize this until I started reading the entire blog more in depth over the last couple of weeks. I realized that there were others writers who were telling me things and challenging me, as well as praising me, or so I thought so in my mind. The real conversation was of course between what thoughts I preconceived and the ones that had been recently presented to me. We were not really conversing, not on any plane that could be seen anyway and I came to the conclusion, that whether or not these communicational writings were intentional or coincidence is irrelevant. It seems that all writers of all times communicate through their writing to readers throughout time and space, and they are waving to us all.
Online Courses Create Writers
The online classroom has often been characterized as a perfect environment for slackers. I cannot imagine why this view might be perpetuated since in an online classroom all students, even those who would not consider themselves to be literary are asked to become capable writers. In an on-site class views are expressed verbally and those who do not choose to comment can sit silently through several class periods. Opinions are often off the cuff and verbal foibles become roadblocks to communication. Students are only asked to express themselves through the written word two to four times a semester on average. Whereas, in an online class one is expected to have intelligent opinions, and well thought out input every week. We are given parameters and pressed to meet them regularly. Those pupils and even professors who do not feel themselves to be adequate writers are forced to stretch that skill and become more adept at transferring thoughts into organized paragraphs, and intelligible writings. Written opinions are available for scrutiny by peers and instructors for long periods of time. When one expresses themselves through the written word they become more cautious and thoughtful about content and voice. In an environment where our written voice is the sole mode with which we convey our scholarly musings literary skills flourish and we all become writers.
Writing for Academic Success
In the online classroom, we are all writers. Writing is the main tool we use to express our thoughts and the medium through which we accomplish learning. We write and post our discussion threads, which give us insight into the academic interpretations of our classmates. We gain new insights by reading the writing of others, so in the online classroom it is imperative that we communicate well enough to accurately express our thoughts. Since we do not have a visual or audio image of our classmates, our impressions of them are based on their writing. Poor writing, such as misspelled words, improper grammar, and run-on sentences give the impression that the writer is careless and ill prepared. Contrarily, good writing that is well organized and free of grammatical errors projects an image of great intelligence and competence.
Our classmates are not the only ones that use our writing to gage our academic ability. Instructors use our writing to judge how well we comprehend assigned texts. They also use our writing to measure our level of commitment to academic achievement. For example, writing that meets the minimum requirements will be graded accordingly and writing that exceeds the minimum requirements will receive higher marks. In the online classroom, good writing skills are the most important tool a student can use to succeed in the realm of higher education.
Our classmates are not the only ones that use our writing to gage our academic ability. Instructors use our writing to judge how well we comprehend assigned texts. They also use our writing to measure our level of commitment to academic achievement. For example, writing that meets the minimum requirements will be graded accordingly and writing that exceeds the minimum requirements will receive higher marks. In the online classroom, good writing skills are the most important tool a student can use to succeed in the realm of higher education.
In the Online Classroom, We Are All Writers
In our everyday lives, we become things which we do not realize. Take for example, that one may not consider her/him self to be a “writer”. Yet, in the online classroom, that is exactly what we are all. Simply by the fact that all communication must occur through the medium of the written word, all who are students and teachers in an online class must become writers. Typically, the word “writer” refers to authors and those who write for a living. However, the word is much more encompassing than that. Secretaries, CEO’s, and even scientists are all writers. “Writer” can refer to anyone who uses the written word to communicate with others. Therefore we, the students in this class, are all writers. The formal assignments require us to produce written works. Class discussions are also conducted through writing.
These writing assignments are practice; helping us to become better writers. Through practice and by learning the rules of writing, the class is shaping us into proficient, quality writers. Even with the advent of technology, the skill of good writing is still important. The only major difference now is that instead of having paper documents, electronic documents have become more prevalent. The online class is a perfect example of this. Though most of us would not consider ourselves to be writers, we are simply because we are part of an online class.
These writing assignments are practice; helping us to become better writers. Through practice and by learning the rules of writing, the class is shaping us into proficient, quality writers. Even with the advent of technology, the skill of good writing is still important. The only major difference now is that instead of having paper documents, electronic documents have become more prevalent. The online class is a perfect example of this. Though most of us would not consider ourselves to be writers, we are simply because we are part of an online class.
Formality in an Online Classroom
There are several different types of writing in an online classroom. Writings can vary from blogs, discussions, and final papers. Along with the various types of writing comes the level of formality. Should every piece of writing be upheld to the same standards? The level of preparation and revision should not be the same for a discussion as with a final paper. If writing in an online classroom is comparable to speech in a classroom setting there would be different standards. There are different forms of speech in classroom settings such as class participation, questions, presentations and formal speeches. An individual is not expected to put in as much effort in class participation or in questions, as they would in a presentation or in a speech.
Since writing is not as spontaneous as speech it has conformed to certain standards. The basics should be followed grammar, spelling, punctuation, etc. Writing also allows the author to put more thought into the writing such as facts, statistics and other sorts of research. In which the author must be aware of plagiarism at all times and take precautions to prevent it from occurring. The previously explained basics should suffice for a discussion. A blog would require further review and revision. The final paper would involve a thesis, research, citations, references, several drafts, and several revisions. Each piece of writing has its own standards, although it is acceptable to exceed the standards but it is never acceptable to fail to meet them.
Since writing is not as spontaneous as speech it has conformed to certain standards. The basics should be followed grammar, spelling, punctuation, etc. Writing also allows the author to put more thought into the writing such as facts, statistics and other sorts of research. In which the author must be aware of plagiarism at all times and take precautions to prevent it from occurring. The previously explained basics should suffice for a discussion. A blog would require further review and revision. The final paper would involve a thesis, research, citations, references, several drafts, and several revisions. Each piece of writing has its own standards, although it is acceptable to exceed the standards but it is never acceptable to fail to meet them.
Write To Show Who You are
When it comes to online classrooms I feel they are often more difficult than a traditional class. You have to be able to write well enough to show people a part of you. They aren't able to judge you by your looks or how you act in class. The only way to judge someone in the online classroom is by their writing ability. You are judged on how you write, what you write, and if you can get your point across in an appropriate manner. Many people are able to speak well. It is easier to sometimes say the point you are trying to make. You also have to be careful how you write things. When you say something others might find offensive a smile will often make the situation lighter, when online you don't have the option of facial expression to help show others what you are feeling. It is also interesting to see what you write and realize that it's not what you were thinking. In doing an online class I feel that you are able to grow in ways you wouldn't be able to in a regular class. We are all faceless names, with other students deciding what we are like by what we write.
Written Communication
When thinking more on the statement that we are all writers, a few things come to mind. Our words represent our ideals and understanding of issues and concepts. In a classroom like this one, our written word take's the place of our speech which can lack intonation, and physical expressions that we rely on to emphasize our words. This can be difficult to express in a written environment such as an online classroom. So far in this class I have learned that your choice of words and organization are but a couple of keys in getting one's points across. Without carefully crafting your posts, your ideas can become confusing and this makes your writing either irrelevant or painfully difficult to follow.
Reflecting on my previous posts, I see where there is much room for improvement in all of these areas and I must begin to pay careful attention to what I am saying through my written word in order to relate better to my classmates and instructors. I seem to have an affinity for the use of ellipses. I rely on them to express a pause in my speech, but in the written world, it can take a statement or idea and disjoint it thereby making the flow of writing difficult to follow.
In summery, learning the technique of writing effectively is vitally important in a class of this nature where your only form of communication is through your written word. I can better appreciate now why the authors we have been studying went to great pains to be as detailed as possible in their writing.
Reflecting on my previous posts, I see where there is much room for improvement in all of these areas and I must begin to pay careful attention to what I am saying through my written word in order to relate better to my classmates and instructors. I seem to have an affinity for the use of ellipses. I rely on them to express a pause in my speech, but in the written world, it can take a statement or idea and disjoint it thereby making the flow of writing difficult to follow.
In summery, learning the technique of writing effectively is vitally important in a class of this nature where your only form of communication is through your written word. I can better appreciate now why the authors we have been studying went to great pains to be as detailed as possible in their writing.
Sunday, November 4, 2007
The online classroom is more than just learning
For the any classroom to be successful it is a necessary element to communicate to each other and to the teachers. In traditional classrooms for the most part a dialogue needs to take place for learning and success. In the online classroom this dialogue takes place through writing. Because we as students selected an online class we all put ourselves at the mercy of the keyboard and now need to use the keyboard to do our writings. This writing promotes success and learning within then class. The online classroom has many obvious good aspects which we all know such as freedom to do work when we have time and freedom to be anywhere in the world that has access to a computer and still be involved in the class. Another not so obvious aspect is that the online classroom really makes us write a lot more than we otherwise would normally write. All of our assignments are done through writing, from this blog and class discussion to papers. Because of this writing aspect we are going to learn more from the class than just the subject but we are continually refining our writing skills which will in turn help us in our future.
Online Writers versus Classroom Traditions
The first topic concerning online classroom writing is observing the pros and cons. I feel that there are a lot of negative as well as positive views with online classes. One of the pros to an online classroom is to have the opportunity to show how responsible you are by demonstrating self-motivation. The other pro is that you can write out your opinion or thought without interruptions that you would normally get in a real classroom.
For the cons, I think that most people feel that virtual learning is too easy and takes away the human factor of education. I disagree because we rely on human facial features too much for an answer and sometimes we need to have less human contact to reveal our most human side which is the writer in all of us. We tend to write out our personal views or observations by means of a journal or poetry giving us an honest view of that individual.
Keeping that in mind I believe that online writing gives a student communicative freedom they normally would not have in a real classroom. Being able to complete a thought as mentioned previously is the most important freedom that is beneficial to everyone. In a regular classroom, have you ever needed to say something and someone always interrupts you? It could be the most revealing idea and someone just trashed it with their rudeness. Online classes give everyone equal opportunity to have an individual input which I believe allows us to become better writers.
For the cons, I think that most people feel that virtual learning is too easy and takes away the human factor of education. I disagree because we rely on human facial features too much for an answer and sometimes we need to have less human contact to reveal our most human side which is the writer in all of us. We tend to write out our personal views or observations by means of a journal or poetry giving us an honest view of that individual.
Keeping that in mind I believe that online writing gives a student communicative freedom they normally would not have in a real classroom. Being able to complete a thought as mentioned previously is the most important freedom that is beneficial to everyone. In a regular classroom, have you ever needed to say something and someone always interrupts you? It could be the most revealing idea and someone just trashed it with their rudeness. Online classes give everyone equal opportunity to have an individual input which I believe allows us to become better writers.
In the online classroom, we are all writers
What it Means to be a Writer in Relation to the Differences Between a Traditional Classroom and an Online Classroom:
Whether we are speaking, writing, conversing, or gesturing, we are communicating. More to the point, we write and speak with the purpose of communicating. Whenever we speak, we may be called “orators” due to definition; by the same token, we may be called “authors” or “writers” whenever we write. But, these labels (orator and writer) are ambiguous with several meanings which range from “one who speaks/writes” to “a professional and exceptional executioner of speaking/writing.” In a traditional classroom, a student is often required to act as both an author (through writing papers) and an orator (by speaking in class and sharing an opinion, presentation, question, or relating experience). The student is an orator only by the first definition mentioned above – s/he is not professional or exceptionally eloquent, but is required to speak to the classroom in an understandable manner. Similarly, when the student writes, s/he writes in accordance to certain standards but does not write in a professional setting, nor does s/he usually publish his/her work. But in an online-classroom, the (traditional) rules are altered and everything is accomplished through writing. In place of verbal discussions are written discussion threads, and (at least in this class) more substantial writings – sometimes better described as opinion-paragraphs or small papers – are published on the internet. Therefore, the online class forces the students to concentrate more than usual on their writing skills, and requires them to be writers as both “a person that writes” and “a writer that publishes his/her work.”
Whether we are speaking, writing, conversing, or gesturing, we are communicating. More to the point, we write and speak with the purpose of communicating. Whenever we speak, we may be called “orators” due to definition; by the same token, we may be called “authors” or “writers” whenever we write. But, these labels (orator and writer) are ambiguous with several meanings which range from “one who speaks/writes” to “a professional and exceptional executioner of speaking/writing.” In a traditional classroom, a student is often required to act as both an author (through writing papers) and an orator (by speaking in class and sharing an opinion, presentation, question, or relating experience). The student is an orator only by the first definition mentioned above – s/he is not professional or exceptionally eloquent, but is required to speak to the classroom in an understandable manner. Similarly, when the student writes, s/he writes in accordance to certain standards but does not write in a professional setting, nor does s/he usually publish his/her work. But in an online-classroom, the (traditional) rules are altered and everything is accomplished through writing. In place of verbal discussions are written discussion threads, and (at least in this class) more substantial writings – sometimes better described as opinion-paragraphs or small papers – are published on the internet. Therefore, the online class forces the students to concentrate more than usual on their writing skills, and requires them to be writers as both “a person that writes” and “a writer that publishes his/her work.”
Saturday, November 3, 2007
Do We All Deserve To Be Writers?
The Internet and blogs make it possible for almost anyone to publish their own work. The work of Hume, St. Thomas Aquinas, Bede, or even Thomas Jefferson would be lost to the masses if someone did not see the merit and have their respective works published. That filter, good or bad, is gone now; anyone can publish and have an audience only a Google search away.
That which gives us a voice can also drown out the truly important writing. I find myself looking at Google searches of condensed commentaries to gain a more complete perspective on topics that interest me. The Internet, unlike the reading assignments for this class, seems like a wide pool of information, but if I try and dive into the water, I find a shallow bottom.
We live in a complex and fast moving world. If great ideas take long detailed explanations, will people take the time to digest the information? I constantly stop myself from scanning and force my mind to read for comprehension. I do not read an entire blog entry, but read the title and the first couple sentences, and if it seems interesting, I read the entire entry. I just don’t have time for anything else. Is it true, have I become another victim to the information overload?
Maybe the Internet is an imperfect place to gather information and absorb intellectual ideas; there is a pop up ad screaming for my attention or an embedded link that carries my mind and computer screen so far away from my starting point, I never return to the document I originally intended to read.
Before I started this blog, I did not realize how my reading and writing habits have changed so much in just a few short years. Damn you, Internet. Hey, maybe I can Google it and find the answer to my problem.
That which gives us a voice can also drown out the truly important writing. I find myself looking at Google searches of condensed commentaries to gain a more complete perspective on topics that interest me. The Internet, unlike the reading assignments for this class, seems like a wide pool of information, but if I try and dive into the water, I find a shallow bottom.
We live in a complex and fast moving world. If great ideas take long detailed explanations, will people take the time to digest the information? I constantly stop myself from scanning and force my mind to read for comprehension. I do not read an entire blog entry, but read the title and the first couple sentences, and if it seems interesting, I read the entire entry. I just don’t have time for anything else. Is it true, have I become another victim to the information overload?
Maybe the Internet is an imperfect place to gather information and absorb intellectual ideas; there is a pop up ad screaming for my attention or an embedded link that carries my mind and computer screen so far away from my starting point, I never return to the document I originally intended to read.
Before I started this blog, I did not realize how my reading and writing habits have changed so much in just a few short years. Damn you, Internet. Hey, maybe I can Google it and find the answer to my problem.
In the Online Classroom We Are All Writers
As online students we are all writers. The online classroom makes way for a unique form of communication. This communication is more in the form of correspondence or letter writing than the more common oral form. With this form of communication one must become a writer in order to communicate thoughts feelings and ideas to fellow students and professors.
The website Thefreedictionary.com gives one definition of a writer as a "communicator - a person who communicates with others." As students in an online class we must communicate with each other through written words. In order to understand one another we need to use the appropriate language and rules that we learned throughout our youth. Without these tools we would not be able to understand on another and our thoughts would never get past our keyboards.
As writers we must learn to overcome the obstacles that are presented with the written language and online communication. These obstacles include the lack personal communication that comes from no physical contact and the misunderstanding that comes with unclear statements. By making intentions clear and taking time to chat online, as students, we can become more clear and understand how to not only be writers, but how to become good ones in the process. The most important part being that feedback from another person can give you a greater understanding of your own work. This is why in the online classroom we are all writers, but we can also all be editors.
The website Thefreedictionary.com gives one definition of a writer as a "communicator - a person who communicates with others." As students in an online class we must communicate with each other through written words. In order to understand one another we need to use the appropriate language and rules that we learned throughout our youth. Without these tools we would not be able to understand on another and our thoughts would never get past our keyboards.
As writers we must learn to overcome the obstacles that are presented with the written language and online communication. These obstacles include the lack personal communication that comes from no physical contact and the misunderstanding that comes with unclear statements. By making intentions clear and taking time to chat online, as students, we can become more clear and understand how to not only be writers, but how to become good ones in the process. The most important part being that feedback from another person can give you a greater understanding of your own work. This is why in the online classroom we are all writers, but we can also all be editors.
Age of Enlightenment and Rules of Academic Writing
During the age of enlightenment people began to receive more education. Their new found education allowed for independent thinking and lead to the re-evaluation of the world around them. As people began to think for themselves the belief arose that one should know things for certain instead of believing what others tell them. The age of enlightenment became, “an age of reason based on faith, not an age of faith based on reason” (Rempel, 2007).
People soon began questioning things. They used their knowledge to make better political, religious, and moral decision. Today we study the authors of that time to gain insight to how the thoughts and beliefs of people changed during that time.
The authors encouraged independent thought, but they did so inside the rules of academic writing. Their decision to follow the rules has made it easier for us to study their work today.
It is just as important to follow the rules of academic writing today as it was during the age of enlightenment. Following rules ensures that writings will be understood and therefore interpreted as the author intended. It guarantees an author is not plagiarized, helps to establish credibility, and lets an audience use resources and fact to make educated decisions on their own. As the authors of the age of enlightenment would agree, people should make their own decision instead of just believing what others tell them; they are better able to do this when the rules of academic writing are followed.
Sources:
Rempel, Gerhard (2007). Western New England College. Retrieved November 2, 2007 from: Collegehttp://mars.wnec.edu/~grempel/courses/wc2/lectures/enlightenment.html
http://www.indiana.edu/~wts/pamphlets.shtml
People soon began questioning things. They used their knowledge to make better political, religious, and moral decision. Today we study the authors of that time to gain insight to how the thoughts and beliefs of people changed during that time.
The authors encouraged independent thought, but they did so inside the rules of academic writing. Their decision to follow the rules has made it easier for us to study their work today.
It is just as important to follow the rules of academic writing today as it was during the age of enlightenment. Following rules ensures that writings will be understood and therefore interpreted as the author intended. It guarantees an author is not plagiarized, helps to establish credibility, and lets an audience use resources and fact to make educated decisions on their own. As the authors of the age of enlightenment would agree, people should make their own decision instead of just believing what others tell them; they are better able to do this when the rules of academic writing are followed.
Sources:
Rempel, Gerhard (2007). Western New England College. Retrieved November 2, 2007 from: Collegehttp://mars.wnec.edu/~grempel/courses/wc2/lectures/enlightenment.html
http://www.indiana.edu/~wts/pamphlets.shtml
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