Language and Technology Understand how technology affects the ways in which language is produced and received. Explore the impact of technology on face-to-face and group communication. Consider the extent to which various technological media displays distinct varieties of language.

The Telephone

Emanuel A Schegloff (1986) Speakers follow a set pattern (routine). Telephone conversations not random, but have a discourse structure like any other text. The absence of face to face contact initiates a collaboration between speakers. There are variables: speaker relationship, context, purpose.

Pattern of a telephone conversation Summons/answer (open channel)  Identification (and/or recognition) Greeting sequence (initiates shared space) ‘how are you’ sequence (strengthens shared space).

Closing telephone conversations Identify some ways of closing telephone conversations. Sometimes we signal we are about to close a conversation without using language that states this overtly. Think of examples.

Valedictions Goodbye bye see ya

Other pre-closing sequences Metatalk ‘Well I’d better stop talking and go and do some work.’ Phatic speech ‘Well it’s been great talking to you.’ Discourse markers ‘well’, ‘anyway’

Homework Learn the key terms covered today ready for a mini test on Wednesday.