Is technology really ruining our face to face communication, or is it just changing the way we go about communicating? In many ways, advancements in communication technologies are allowing for more people to keep in touch with each other and in more diverse ways than ever before. The following video was put together as an english communications project by a group of students. While I dont' agree with all the aspects hinting about the distructions technology causes to communication, some of the messages conveyed are true. If one was to apply the implications this video suggests of the deterioration of fact-to-face communication to business practices, would the results be the same? If we take out the "social" link and replace it with the "business" model, is the constant reliance on computer mediated messages going to lead to a laps in the relationship building that goes on in business meetings and on the golf course? What do you think? Let us know on twitter.
I feel like people are forgetting what it feels like to communicate face-to-face. We are definitely secluding ourselves, but in turn, accomplishing more through the advancements of technology. Interesting (controversial) video. Nice post!
ReplyDeleteI would have to agree with you. Even in social situations, it is so common for everyone to be thumbs deep in conversations. It is kind of like a twitter meet up-or at least comparable to one. Instead of participating in an open, emotional dialogue with those present, we opt to interact with the invisbile other. Very interesting....
ReplyDeleteI guess it really depends on your generation. I can tell you that the Baby Boomers absolutely think it's ruining communication. As a business owner, I see A LOT of silly conversations and misunderstandings that happen because people don't talk to one another, face-to-face.
ReplyDeleteA couple of years ago, I banned internal email so that people would talk to one another. It created a big uprise in morale that remained after we lifted the ban.
Banning internal email? Sounds pretty radical these days, but I can see how it could be beneficial :)
ReplyDeleteIt is very easy to forget that even though we "communicate" online, we aren't really communicating-communication transcends words, and has so much to do with the nonverbal cues and nuiances that occur when face-to-face.
I don't know if I can 100% say it technology is ruining communication, but it is definitely changing the way we go about communicating, but I think it is too early to determine if it is for the best or the worst.
Thanks so much for your insight Gini!!!