Computer Mediated Communication

Computer-mediated communication ( SMS ) is any communication between people that occurs using two or more electronic devices ^[1] . Usually this term refers to communication methods that are characteristic of computer devices (for example, e-mail , chat rooms, online forums, social networks , etc.). In addition, the term can be applied to any textual communication ^[2] . Studies of computer-mediated communication focus mainly on the social consequences of communication using computer tools.

The term itself is not an established option in the Russian language. There are also translations “computer-mediated communication”, “communication in the electronic environment”, “computer-mediated communication” ^[3] .

Scope

Many scientists use the socio-psychological approach to computer-mediated communication, exploring how people use "computers" (or digital media) for interpersonal interaction, forming an impression and supporting relationships ^{[4] [5]} . These studies often focus on the differences between online and offline interactions, although modern researchers are gradually coming to the conclusion that computer-mediated interactions should be studied as embedded in everyday life ^[6] . Another branch of the study of computer-mediated communication considers the use of paralinguistic functions, such as emoticons ^[7] , pragmatic rules, such as sequence in a conversation ^[8] . Learning a language in these contexts is usually based on the text of computer-mediated communication, and is sometimes referred to as “analysis of computer-mediated discourse” ^[9] . With the help of computer-mediated communication, people can communicate in a wide range of areas, such as professional, social circles, educational institutions, etc. Depending on the environment, the way of communication and the technologies used change. Popular forms of computer-mediated communication include email, video, audio or text chat (text conferences, including “instant messaging”), discussion boards, and MMOs ^[10] . These parameters are changing rapidly with the development of new technologies.

Features

As writes I.N. Rosina, computer-mediated communication is different from human-computer interaction. The latter is characterized by its accuracy, logical foundations and numerous limitations. If a person uses a language different from the program embedded in the computer, then the machine simply will not understand the person’s commands. Even such "small" errors, like an extra space or incorrect syntax, will lead to the computer not executing the command. And computer-mediated communication is, first of all, communication between people while maintaining significant elements of electronic interaction. The Russian-language term "computer-mediated communication" preserves the most approximate version of the English-language term, since it reflects all three important components - computer, environment, communication ^[3] .

In addition, the skill of computer-mediated communication requires some training. Rosina believes that the basics of electronic communication are formed either on their own experience, or on the example of more experienced users. In addition, communication between users depends on the technical means that they have chosen to communicate. But at the same time, the needs of communication form technological changes in the computer environment ^[3] .

Theories of computer-mediated communication

Joseph Walter identifies the following theories of computer-mediated communication and interpersonal communication ^[11] :

• Theory of Public Presence
• Theory of the absence of contextual signs
• Theory of Media Opportunity
• Model of de-individualization in terms of social identity (SIDE Model)
• Signal Theory Judith Donat
• Theory of Electronic Proximity
• Theory of Public Influence
• Channel Expansion Theory
• Theory of Social Information Processing
• Hyperpersonal model of computer-mediated communication

Benefits

The essence of computer-mediated communication is that any person can communicate with other people, regardless of time and location. Computer-mediated communication allows people to work together on projects whose implementation would not be possible due to a geographical factor ^[12] . In addition, this type of communication can be used by people who have communication problems due to character traits or health. By allowing an individual to communicate anywhere, computer-mediated communication also minimizes the stress of communication ^[13] . This type of communication also allows you to create an individual comfortable environment, which in turn contributes to the disclosure of a person. When exchanging data through an electronic medium, people are less prone to stereotypes and less worried about their physical disabilities. Anonymity of communication on the Internet also helps users to quickly establish contacts with other people on the Web ^[14] .

Language Learning

Computer-mediated communication is widely discussed in the field of language learning, since this type of communication allows students and native speakers to communicate with each other directly ^[15] . For example, linguist Mark Varschauer ^[16] conducted several case studies by email or using discussion boards in various language classes. Warschauer ^[17] argued that information and communication technology would help “bridge the historical gap between speech ... and writing.”