The Internet and the English Language By: Terence Carter Summary by: Lindsay Schroader
Introduction Computers, the Internet, and Communication Internet Jargon- “net-speak” “Invisible Person” Syndrome Training and Tools The Changing English Language
Computers, the Internet, and Communication Computers in the home Public access to the Internet changes Internet communication is different from the formal written language
Internet Jargon- “net-speak” Lacking correct grammar and spelling Time saver Changing the written English language “punctuation, spelling, syntax, and capitalization, often makes what is written difficult, if not impossible, to comprehend“ how R U? i hope things OK. System crashed yesterday, possibly fried HDD. if you could, please swing by the office tonight to fix it. thx! cul8r -cp Example:
“Invisible Person” Syndrome Poor grammar and spelling are acceptable Believed to be unknown –Most users can be traced Internet communication leaves an impression too!
Training and Tools Many do not know all about computers Corners are cut in areas of knowledge –English Language Spelling and grammar checkers –Do not mark words used incorrectly –Incorrect words can be added
The Changing English Language New words have been added with each age –Chariot → Carriage → Horseless Carriage → Car Technical terms have become commonly used words –“being online” and things “crashing”
Conclusion Computers made the internet main stream Internet communication created new standards for the English language Internet communication was seen as an impersonal communication The public lacks the training and tools The English language is changing Question?