COMPUTER MEDIATED COMMUNICATION: THE IMPLICATIONS OF ENGLISH NETSPEAK FOR FORMAL LINGUISTICS

Abstract

 Acronyms, abbreviations, emoticons, texts, sms: these are all characteristics of 21st century internet communication trends. While these have created a medium for easy and convenient communication, there are concerns about the implication it has for the formal study of language - Linguistics, in the long run. This article examines existing literature on the effects Computer-Mediated Communication (CMC, henceforth) is having, especially in relation to components of formal linguistics. The paper draws on relevant research articles selected from online sources, textbooks on CMC and conference proceedings. It does not attempt to delve in-depth into CMC: the types, characteristics, important, advantages or disadvantages. Neither is it considering the social, cultural, psychological, interpersonal, or emotional effects it is bringing about. Rather it is strictly concerned with the impact CMC has had on the formal study of language- Linguistics, and its implication going forward