Conversation - A Vanishing Skill?

The text explores the changing landscape of communication, particularly focusing on the preference for texting over talking among younger generations. It highlights the challenges and implications of this shift in communication styles.

A 13-year-old's preference for texting her mother instead of speaking in person serves as an illustrative example of this trend. The text cites a study indicating that many people, especially younger individuals, prefer texting to talking. However, it emphasizes that the most successful communicators possess the ability to effectively use both texting and speaking.

Highlight: Communication is becoming an art form as valuable as writing in today's digital landscape.

The text also discusses the impact of digital communication on campus life, where students often prefer emailing professors to face-to-face interactions or phone calls. Mary Ann Allison emphasizes the importance of in-person communication, noting that body language, which is absent in text-based interactions, significantly aids in understanding others.

Quote: "So the key, experts say, is to recognize your weak point and work on developing a wide range of communication skills."

This quote underscores the importance of developing diverse communication skills to adapt to various situations and technologies.

Example: At Fordham University, students were assigned a project to give up one form of electronic communication and practice introducing themselves in a room full of people, highlighting the importance of face-to-face communication skills.

The text concludes by revisiting the mother-daughter scenario, noting that the daughter tends to use abbreviations and less formal grammar in texts. Experts suggest that individuals who are more flexible in their writing often adapt more easily to new technologies.

Vocabulary: Nonverbal communication refers to the use of body language, facial expressions, and gestures to convey information, which is often lost in digital communication.