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Social Semiotics

  Social Semiotics What, Who, and Why? Discovered by Ferdinand de Saussure, social semiotics is the exploration and discovery the ways humans attach meaning to specific social practices and systems.  Semiotic methodology identifies the meaning represented in messages with and without a language aspect, including signs, symbols, sculptures, art/imagery, messages, many more communicative forms (Mingers and Willcocks, 2017). Semiotics aim to look deeper than language, interpreting meaning beyond it. This type of understanding is important to the interpretation of human insights. Cultural and societal context is expressed through gestures, actions, and imagery and differs across the globe. Visuals are impactful on societies, students, audiences and can be used to help in learning, advertising, and propaganda.  The Rules There are rules that apply to this methodology. There are two parts to a sign: signifier and signified . The signifier is the physical representation prese...
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The Argumentative Online User

  Online arguments can be messy and downright cruel in certain situations. It is very easy to start rattling off words without thinking of the people on the other side of the screen. A good example of this is a debate that went down on a People.com Instagram post regarding the basketball phenom, Caitlin Clark. A mild debate broke out after a controversial encounter occurred between the player and a reporter. After certain hand gestures and words were used, many viewers and professionals were off put. The reporter received much backlash from the public and was punished by his employers. I chose this argument as I’ve seen many similar argumentative tactics in my own personal social media usage. I think it is very common for online arguments to present this way which makes it a great example. As for the online debate, words used were also quite controversial between users. I will insert images of a couple different threads under the People.com post.  Another thread stated… ...

The Toulmin Method

  What is the Toulmin Method? The Toulmin method is a six-step method used to analyze arguments and create persuasive comments. The steps include claim, data, warrant, backing qualifier and rebuttal.   The Steps:    1. Claim: a claim is a statement or a point that the writer wants to argue. In online communications this can even be opinionated statements.  2. Data: Data, or grounds as the diagram above shows, is the evidence or factual backing the supports the claim. Using credible research here is key.  3. Warrant: This connects the researched data and the claim, meaning it is used as further evidence.  4. Backing: Backing is further evidence to support the warrant, online communications may use reports or studies to back their warrant.  5. Qualifier: The qualifier is used to narrow the scope of claim. They make the argument more precise.  6. Rebuttal: The rebuttal showcases the other side of the argument. They allow readers to hear the opin...

Podcasts: Online Communication

  In the podcast  "Quick Thinks: How to Shine Online and Excel at Virtual Communication", a part of the Think Fast, Talk Smart podcast, the host Matt Abrahams incorporates many of his favorite tips from podcast guests; discussing their tips and tricks to creating better virtual communication. Listen to this nine-minute podcast on Apple podcasts :  https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/think-fast-talk-smart-communication-techniques/id1494989268?i=1000517406053 Engagement:   One of the main points discussed in this podcast is engagement. Holding the attention of your audience is eye to communicating effectively. One guest described incorporating changing aspects, and not remaining in one media for too long. This will take much time planning in advance; it is very closely to being staged. The end result will be shifts throughout the podcast or communications such as zoom meetings. Breakout rooms, videos, group work and interactive work all help to keeping your audience...

Social Media in Today's Society

Social media has become the way of the future! Over the past few decades, social media has expanded, evolved and today is found on most people's phones. “As of 2024, there are approximately 5.16 billion active social media users worldwide, which is around 59.3% of the global population” (Larson, 2024). That being said, social media has transformed communication and the ways which users formulate public opinions.  Public Opinion Battle Public opinion formation has fought against many factors as the development of social media has enhanced… The formation of algorithms has challenged public opinion. Many sites use algorithms to provide users with information or posts that they will more frequently like or look into. This leaves room for misinformation, or half-truths being spread through multiple groups on the specific app.  The fragmentation of news and political affairs is fractured, leading to worsened understandings and, again, misinformation and half-truths.  Implicat...

Kimes Ranch

Identity   Kimes Ranch is a Texas based western brand which sells a variety of clothing products. In recent years the company has gained a lot of followers and is a top brand in the western world. The company has done well at establishing a known identity, the longhorn logo is commonly known, the longhorn accentuates the style and propose behind the company's products. It is because of this, as well as high quality materials, that Kimes Ranch has gained a large western follower base. Could this have something to do with their online presence? Let's investigate.  Online Presence and Communication Website: Kimes Ranch does a very good job communicating with its followers and customers through their website. Main features such as sales, company updates, or new/seasonal clothing are on the top of the main page. They do this to draw attention to trending items or exciting deals which encourage shoppers to purchase more goods. Right now, Kimes Ranch is showcasing their Spring Sale....

Digital Natives vs. Digital Immigrants

What is the difference between digital natives and digital immigrants? As Marc Prensky discussed in the article, Digital Native, Digital Immigrants, in today's world there are two types of learners. Digital natives are those of us which were born in the time of the digital world. These natives know the language, know the slang, and understand the ins and outs of the society. The digital immigrants are not quite so technologically savvy. The digital immigrants are described as those who were born before/outside of the digital world who have tried to pick it up later in life. Just as an immigrant to a new country, old habits and ways of life still remain for digital immigrants, Prensky called this a person's “accent”. Mark Pensky How has the immigrant/native divide affected the classroom? While many teachers and professors are considered digital immigrants and most students are considered digital natives, there is a bit of a language barrier in the classroom. As digital immigrant...