QUESTION
TOPIC:
Explain what is meant by the term ‘computer-mediated communication’(CMC).
Based on your readings, discuss the barriers to communication which may arise when CMC is used socially or in the workplace.
Despite these barriers, does the research indicate that there may be any advantages to CMC socially or in the workplace? Base your discussion on the Readings.
SOLUTION
Computer-mediated communication: A boon or a curse?
Computer-mediated communication, in a nutshell, refers to any communication done through or using computers that are connected via a network i.e. communication that is mediated by computers. It has also been defined as “synchronous or asynchronous electronic mail and computer conferencing, by which senders encode in text messages that are relayed from senders’ computers to receivers”.
In the 21st century, it is inevitable that, as with most other aspects of our lives, communication will also affected by machines. However, what must be realized is that machines and computers will never be able to replace human-to-human interaction, no matter how noble the intent. In fact, there is a distinct possibility of significant barriers arising in the normal communication process due to machine and computer intervention. The first barrier that often arises is the lack of knowledge and familiarity about the use of CMC and adequate CMC techniques . People are used to face-to-face talks and other forms of non-CMC-based communication since their childhood, and it is this natural human form of communication that comes naturally to them. Another problem is the inherent lack of body language and audio and visual signals in CMC (Grabe, 2006)A major disadvantage of CMC is a distinct and often noticeable lack of seriousness from one or more participants in the information that is communicated or the communication process itself compared to other natural forms of communication. People are generally inclined to take face-to-face interviews more seriously than an online chat.
However, there are two sides to every coin; and nowhere is this truer than in the case of technology. Every problem is also an opportunity, and despite the barriers arising from the use of CMC, it holds significant advantages as well. For example, CMC breaks down geographical barriers to communication – people can communicate with other people from the other side of the globe (Lane, 1994) CMC has made communication faster and simpler – sharing a photo or a video with someone a large distance away takes less time, efforts and resources with the aid of CMC than without it. People generally feel less self-conscious when engaging in CMC compared to a face-to-face chat or other traditional forms of communication. Hence, CMC significantly aids communication between different parties.
In conclusion, the generic dictum that is applicable to almost every aspect of technology holds for CMC as well. It is both – a boon as well as a curse – depending on how it is used. It can certainly hold immense benefits to human communication and interaction if used in the right way and in a discerning manner.
References:
Lane, 1994. Computer-Mediated Communication in the Classroom: Asset or Liability?
Grabe, 2006. Advantages and pitfalls of Computer-Mediated Communication
