Abstract
This chapter introduces synchronous, one-on-one, computer mediated communication. A discussion then is presented on the growth of typewritten, synchronous communication, beginning with the Tele- Typewriter/Telecommunications Device for the Deaf (TTY/TDD), and how instant messaging (IM) can benefit those who are deaf, and also others who wish to communicate rapidly without the use of a telephone or face-to-face (f2f) communication. Besides discussing benefits of synchronous, text-based, one-on-one communication, this chapter will also address the downfall to the written communication caused by the overuse of abbreviations and emoticons that is coming into regular use outside of the IM environment. After the author examines the pros and cons of CMC via IM, implications of the growth of CMC via IM are considered.
Key Terms in this Chapter
Synchronous: At the same time, or simultaneously. Time-dependent.
CMC: Computer mediated communication. This can be both synchronous and asynchronous.
TTY/TDD: Teletypewriter for the deaf/telecommunications device for the deaf. This is a hardware utilized by the Deaf/hard of hearing population to communicate via telephone lines utilizing synchronous, text-based communication. Both sides are required to have similar hardware in order to communicate via this technology.
Face-to-Face: Live, or in-person.
Asynchronous: Not time dependent.
IM: Instant messaging. This is a software utilized by all populations to communicate via computer networks utilizing synchronous text-based communication. Both sides are required to have the same software installed in order to communicate via this technology.
Asynchronous: Not time dependent.
Emoticon: A pictorial representation of a facial or body expression.
CMC: Computer mediated communication. This can be both synchronous and asynchronous.
Synchronous: At the same time, or simultaneously. Time-dependent.
IM: Instant messaging. This is a software utilized by all populations to communicate via computer networks utilizing synchronous text-based communication. Both sides are required to have the same software installed in order to communicate via this technology.
TTY/TDD: Teletypewriter for the deaf/telecommunications device for the deaf. This is a hardware utilized by the Deaf/hard of hearing population to communicate via telephone lines utilizing synchronous, text-based communication. Both sides are required to have similar hardware in order to communicate via this technology.
Face-to-Face: Live, or in-person.
Emoticon: A pictorial representation of a facial or body expression.