Meaning Makers & Meaning Making: Communications Dissemination

  

 

Ferdinand de Saussure and Charles Sanders are credited for initiating the theory of semiotics that studies the meaning of symbolic communication (Zantides & Ball, 2014). In 1978 Michael Halliday proposed that the semiotic resource of language and visual aids are influenced by how individuals utilize them within a specific context (Bezemer and Mavers, 2011). Today social semiotics as a study is concerned with the diffusion of media information and focuses on interpretations and understandings of visual communications on the individual level (Bezemer and Mavers, 2011). In practice, semiotics is used as a tool to convey axioms, concepts, and ideologies, and its use ubiquitous in contemporary social contexts (Zantides & Ball, 2014).   

Methods for analyzing signs, which includes letters, numbers, or any visual representation or expression, vary depending on the application and goal. However, commonalities include looking at specific signifiers, which are the most simplistic units of meaning contained in a sign.  

Methods for analyzing signs, which includes letters, numbers, or any visual representation or expression, vary depending on the application and goal. However, commonalities include looking at specific signifiers, which are the most simplistic units of meaning contained in a sign.  In designing a marketing sign, for example, marketers might analyze signs connected with their product, then select signifiers that contain appropriate, memorable, recognizable, and versatile associations to communicate the attractiveness of their product. In this case of the graphic above, the signifiers presented do accurately convey a memorable, appropriate, recognizable, and versatile messages.  

Similarly, if you were assessing a visual aid to communicate semiotics, the analysis would look at the specific signifiers used in the message(s). As the visual aid suggests, an analysis would begin with an assessment of the signifier, then an evaluation of the concept that is signified.

Bezemer, & Mavers, D. (2011). Multimodal transcription as academic practice: a social semiotic perspective. International Journal of Social Research Methodology, 14(3), 191–206. https://doi.org/10.1080/13645579.2011.563616

Zantides, & Ball, R. (2014). Semiotics and visual communication : concepts and practices (Zantides, Ed.). Cambridge Scholars Publishing.

The Climate Debate

 

 

 

Environmental issues such as pollution, resources consumption, and climate change negatively affect billions of people annually (UN, 2023). Yet, much of the social debate concerning the topic remains unfruitful, even harmful, to the prospect of finding agreeable solutions. Consequently, as an example I chose a observe the Facebook “Clime Change Debate” page, which contains several concerns about online argument.

1.            The first concern is that arguments concerning environmental issues are frequently lack respect, which is a fundamental aspect of a persuasive debate (Green, 2023). While the causes are many, political affiliations often wrongfully frame the topic, and the sources of authority cited have varying degrees of credibility.
2.       Another significant concern is that the format of discussion does not allow a complete persuasive presentation, nor does it encourage insightful rebuttals. Because both the topic in question and our communication needs are nuanced and complex, the model for debate should accommodate the needs of an effective communications model. A Short statement of opinion and a meme do not effectively communicate a substantiated idea.
3.       Communications on this page do not include exchanges of disclosure, and consequently there seems to be no uncertainty-reduction. As a model of communication, we know that disclosure and uncertainty reduction are beneficial components of trust building, which influence the exchange of information. The communications on this page lack the necessary mechanisms for persuasive dialog.

 

Here are five “rules” for improving the quality of debate online, especially concerning environmental issues.

1.      Do not engage in debates that lack critical components of interpersonal communications.

2.      Respect yourself and others by setting high standards of online interpersonal communications.

3.      Take advantage of asynchronous communications, take time to consider your communications critically.

4.      Consider that your audience is oppositional, reflect on potential rebuttals.

5.      Reflect on the value of science communications and scientific standards.

 

 

What is the Toulmin method?

 

The Toulmin method is a model for understanding a specific style of communication, that of making an assertion, claim, or proposition. The model proposes that there are six main parts of any argument that might be categorically evaluated for a better understanding of the authors argument (Green, 286). The six most basic elements of the Toulmin method include claims, reasons, evidence, warrants, qualifiers, and rebuttals, yet each category has their own sub-category for analysis (Green, 286). Evaluating an argument with Toulmin’s systematic technique synthesizes the information in a way which might improve the qualitative judgement of the viewer. The method is intended as a logical filter that might illuminate gaps in an otherwise convincing argument, or equally affirm the warrants of an opposing point of view (Green, 286). Thus, the Toulmin method is also a communications tool.  

 

Who is Toulmin?

Born: March 25, 1922 London England

Died: December 4, 2009 (aged 87) Los Angeles California

Subjects Of Study: ethics prescriptive grammar

 

Toulmin was a British philosopher who had a major impact on the understanding of argument-communication through his systematic analysis of arguments (Britannica). Toulmin was a published author and was well respected in academic communities, but was most well noted for his contributions of his model (Britannica)    

 

While Toulmin’s model could be viewed as a formulaic methodology for evaluating persuasive communications, it might equally be viewed as a template for constructing an effective argument. In today’s online world, many arguments are communicated asynchronistically through all forms of media and cover every topic of human communications. National news reporting might be the most poignant and common example of the Toulmin method in practice. Reporting on a recent toxic disaster, NPR reporter Becky Sullivan presented an informative article that narrates the complexities of environmental cleanup. In evaluating the article, each of Toulmin’s elements is obvious. And this is no surprise. The Toulmin model provides a construct for systematically communicating complex claims clearly and concisely, which is a clear goal of journalist.

 

Quick Thinks: How to Shine Online and Excel at Online Communications

The Think Fast, Talk Smart, podcast is hosted by Matt Abrahams, a professor of strategic communications at Stanford, and is produced by the Stanford Graduate School of Business. The podcast focuses on evaluating and enhancing interpersonal communications from an academic perspective, and the intended audience is business professionals.  In this episode of Think Fast, Talk Smart, "How to Shine Online and Excel at Virtual Communications" Matt and specials guests gauge the effectiveness of purposeful online communications, and further discuss some tips for improving virtual communications. Matt and guests strongly emphasize the importance of presentation in virtual meetings, regularly highlighting the importance of non-verbal communications in virtual meetings. Eye contact, gestures, and audible variations in voice, Matt argues, are critical components of communications that are fundamental to disclosure, and disclosure is critical for gaining trust. Nearly every facet of this episode was elaborated upon in chapter 14, "Informative Presentations", of Communicating Online. Yet, this episode did offer some insightful variations or additions to enhancing online communication skills. 

     

• Suttle shifts in presence helps to hold audience attention: Use posture and gestures to highlight your audible communications, carefully. 
• Use paraphrasing as a transitional tool: Paraphrase a colleagues statement, add your thoughts, then transition to the next topic. 
• Take the time to setup your camera optimally: Your head/face should full 1/2 the screen, there should be some space above your head, and put a picture of a loved one just behind your camera, this will make eye contact easy and sincere. 
• Humans are designed for greater engagement with changing stimuli: Plan your dialog, avoid cognitive overload, consider regularly changing your meeting format. 

How does your camera setup influence your online presence, online communication?

      

In essence and summary, this podcast episode's thesis is that online interpersonal communications are based on the fundamental principles of communication, but the context differs, and therefore methods of communications must be altered. Carefully planning your online presence is key for effective online communications. Doing so helps to establish a trust that encourages interpersonal interactions, which develops further disclosure and engagement. And because virtual meetings have become a permanent fixture of the professional business world, developing your online presence is key to enhancing online communications. 

References

Abrahams, Matt. (2023). "How To Shine Online and Excel at Online Communications".                   Think Fast, Talk Smart Podcast. 2023. https://podcasts.apple.com/ph/podcast/quick-             thinks-how-to-shine-online-and-excel-at-virtual/id1494989268?i=1000517406053

BBC News. (Sept. 24th, 2021). " New Zealand Council's Zoom Talks Go Viral as Pretend              Meeting. https://www.bbc.com/news/world-asia-58674888.       

Green, Julia. (2023). Communicating Online. McGraw-Hill Create.                                                    https://bookshelf.vitalsource.com/books/9781307876413.

 Social Media as a Platform

 

 

 

·         How have people used social media to win the hearts and minds of people?

The scope and social impact of social media has created a new informational construct that provides the cognitive, effective, personal integrative, social integrative, and tension free needs of many users. With this platform influencers and groups often effectively use rhetoric to persuade audiences or share information. Influencers and groups can additionally act as gatekeepers of information, which may result in reinforcing bias in the audience. However, the individual audience members own needs and personal interpretive bias may play a large role in the effectiveness of the exposed rhetoric. The easiest example of this phenomenon in motion can be seen in any American high-stakes political race, in which both parties ramp up social media communications in an attempt to motivate support.  

 

·         Give an example of how it’s been used in a positive, or negative way.

          How has social media become a powerful mobilization channel?

         

One of the greatest negatives of social media as a platform is that it has not improved oppositional dialog, but rather intensified it. While there are many theories as to why, the fact remains that this intensification has aided social polarization. Yet, the role of social media in interpersonal communications has a bright side too. As a platform social medias networking capabilities are nearly unmatched. And in that way social media has become a powerful tool for mobilization. Many influencers, groups, and individuals have used social media to carry out humanitarian efforts such as disaster relief or social awareness of ethics violations.      

 

 Business Embracing Online Communications

The PRS guitar company is highly regarded by musicians in nearly every genre of popular music. But being formed and renowned prior to the digital era, how has PRS used online an online presence and communications to maintain or enhance their company’s image?  

PRS does effectively use online communications to communicate the company’s core values, which include quality, assurance, and community. The company uses YouTube, Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter, to promote its approach to quality instruments and to distinguish itself from the competition. However, and perhaps more importantly, the company also uses its online platforms to reduce uncertainty on a personal level. This is accomplished, on Instagram for example, by short and personal reels by respected musicians that often require little to no introduction. The presence of known figures immediately reduces the uncertainty between the individual and the company and its products, thereby making a more meaningful connection with the viewer.

https://www.instagram.com/reel/CYmNUFYlnFJ/?hl=en

PRS makes additional uses of YouTube, Twitter, and Facebook to network events, tell stories, and generally promote an online presence that reflects the  professionalism of the company’s persona. While this selective disclosure is to be expected by both professional individuals and businesses alike, PRS’ focus on community communicates a sense of respectability and earned trust needed for a relationship.

It is clear that the PRS company has refined its online communications and presence. The company’s messaging is contemporary in delivery and context, and all of the major online platforms are utilized for their unique potential to project the company’s image.    

If we visit the official PRS website, the first (top) page immediately communicates a personal and friendly image, a direct communication of welcoming disclosure by featured artists. As we scroll down we will find other approachable disclosures in the form of bio’s from other known and upcoming artists. And as we scroll to the bottom, we find continued personal disclosures from signature artists, as well as events and news.

About US (PRS)

While in one sense the layout of company’s website is communicating personal discolsure, it could also be viewed as communicating an appraisal interview. The site discloses past achievements and future goals, and very much promotes itself as being the right candidate for the job. And through those communications, the company consistently communications a strong sense of self and self-purpose. The clarity of which can be observed in the company’s longer YouTube clips, where the company’s focus on viewer engagement is promoted through discussions and company links. This is just one more example of the company’s refined communications, as well as an indicator of a deeper understanding of the nuances of online communications.

It would be difficult to improve PRS’ online communications. However, I did notice that all the platforms utilized by the company were American/Western. I wonder of the company could more broadly project its image if it were to use other platforms found in the global east.

 

Sedentary Immigration 

·         According to Prensky, what is the immigrant/native divide and how has it affected the way students learning? 

Prensky uses the relatable terms “digital immigrants and digital natives” to describe the contrast in learning and communication between those born into the digital age, and those born prior. In general, those born in the digital age have adopted technology as a staple-medium for leaning and communicating. Dissimilarly, those born before the implementation of modern communications technology were taught and learned much differently, Today, the “legacy” model for learning and communicating is essentially foreign for younger generations, known as the digital natives. Likewise, digital immigrants generally have difficulties learning the new language of natives, and when they do, their “accents” betray their immigration. Consequently, Prensky is essentially saying that the communications between the two groups is wanting, if not detrimental. Prensky uses the examples of games, speed of delivery, and random access, to show that digital natives have developed different ways of learning, ways foreign the the immigrant, but still very effective. And this is why the gap in communications between the two groups is detrimental, the learning potential of digital natives is not being maximized in our education system.  

 

·         According to Prensky, what category do you fall into and how has this affected your learning?

According to Prensky, I fall somewhere in the middle of being a digital immigrant/native. While I definitely have an accent at times, my early immigration has helped to smooth the transition, and a good network of family and friends also helps me to make sense of the changes. Additionally, being an e-campus student has done wonders for my digital literacy. The various formats, requirements, and opportunities provided by e-campus has left me all but proficient in most forms of modern communication and learning. Subsequently, I currently do my utmost to embrace the benefits of our new language. Though, to be transparent, it was not always easy. Extreme frustration or anxiety often made the learning process difficult, even almost impossible at times. Technical difficulties, in a zoom meeting for example, that caused me a near melt down is something I’ve heard younger students scoff at. “It happens” I’ve been told, “nothing to stress about”. In sticking with Prensky’s theme, I think my zoom example is akin to not understanding cultural norms as an immigrant. Thankfully, the natives have been kind to me, and I’ve been fortunate enough find some efficacy using the new language.