Quote: "Yes, young people sometimes accidentally slip a btw (by the way) into a school essay. But a recent study by the Pew Internet and American Life Project confirms that middle school and high school students understand what kind of language is appropriate in what context (Lenhart, Smith, & Macgill, 2008). What's more, scholars of new media language, such as David Crystal and Beverly Plester, remind us that the new technologies encourage creativity, which can spill over into school writing (Crystal, 2008; Plester, Wood, & Bell, 2008)." (Baron, March, 2009)
Reaction: Overall, I enjoyed this article. I agree with this quote and most of the article. I do believe that some students accidentally slip and forget about a btw ( by the way) into their papers but, I believe it simply was an error they missed while proof reading. If students pay more attention to proof reading an concentrate on peer editing, I do not believe this would even be an issue. I think most students know when it is appropriate to use abbreviations or "lingo", such as during text messaging, a simple note to a friend, or even a grocery or shopping list. Although, when the student is writing a term paper or an essay, they need to focus more on formal writing and not so much abbreviations. In their paper if they have explained what something is once, I believe it would be appropriate for the use of an abbreviation. The main thing is that students need creativity in their learning. I know I learn better when I can be more creative. Students being able to be creative while learning how to use different technologies to help them grasp a concept, is what the future is focusing on. Being creative and having some flexibility will also help when students have to write papers. The world is forever changing and technologically advancing everyday.
Reference: Baron. S. (2009, March) Are Digital Media Changing language?
retrieved from: http://www.ascd.org/publications/educational-leadership/mar09/vol66/num06/Are-Digital-Media-Changing-Language%C2%A2.aspx
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This video displays a good example of how technology influences the English language. It expresses the evolution of communication and provides excellent examples of different variations of the English language over the years.
I agree with you, Jennifer. I believe that sometimes mistake are made, but I believe that most people know when it is appropriate to use digital lingo and writing a term paper.
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