Lecture 8 - COMM IN THE DIGITAL AGE.pptx

Communication in the Digital Age The landscape of communication has undergone a profound transformation, driven by the rapid advancement of digital platforms and technologies.  Contents o Internet Communication o Social Media o Digital Concepts o Advantages and Disadvantages  C...

Communication in the Digital Age The landscape of communication has undergone a profound transformation, driven by the rapid advancement of digital platforms and technologies.  Contents o Internet Communication o Social Media o Digital Concepts o Advantages and Disadvantages  Communication in the digital age refers to the exchange of information using digital technologies and platforms.  In the digital age, communication has become faster, more efficient, and more accessible than ever before.  It has expanded the possibilities for connecting with others across different geographical locations.  Prominent forms of communication in the digital age include internet communication, social media, and game communication.  1) Internet Communication  Internet communication is referred to as the sharing of information over the World Wide Web, or the Internet.  The Internet consists of a worldwide string of connected networks that exchanges data through packet switching using the standardized Internet Protocol Suite (TCP/IP).  With Internet communication, people can effortlessly communicate with one another at any time from anywhere in the world.  2) Social Media  Social media is a computer-based technology that facilitates the sharing of ideas, thoughts, and information through virtual networks and communities.  By design, social media is internet-based and gives users electronic communication content.  Social media platforms are internet-powered platforms that make it easy for individuals, groups, and organizations to converse and exchange information.  Types of Social Media The most popular types of social media are: a)Social networking sites b)Social news platforms c)Media-sharing platforms d)Instant messaging platforms e)Blogs f)Microblogging sites g)Video conferencing platforms  a) Social Networking Sites Social networking sites provide services that allow you to connect with people of similar interests and backgrounds. On social networks, people usually have a profile, groups, messaging, photos, and multiple other ways to interact with other users. Popular examples include Facebook and LinkedIn.  b) Social News Platforms Social news platforms enable users to post links, articles, videos, pictures, etc. Users vote on items, and items with the highest number of votes are displayed prominently with high visibility on the site. Popular news sites include Reddit and Digg.  C) Media-Sharing Platforms Media-sharing platforms allow users to upload and share photos, videos, and pictures. Most of these platforms also offer social features such as the ability to create profiles and comments on other shared content. The most popular media-sharing platforms include YouTube and Instagram.  d) Instant Messaging Platforms They are internet-based platforms that allow for text-based communication in which two persons participate in a single conversation within an Internet-based chatroom. These platforms may also allow the sharing of other media resources such as audio and videos, or make phone calls. Some of the most popular instant messaging platforms include WhatsApp, Telegram, and WeChat.  e) Blogs Blogs are sites of information and discussion. Blogger, the free weblog publishing tool from Google, allows users to share text, photos, and videos with followers. Blog comments are usually centered around the specific subject of the attached blog. There are many, many popular blogs and forums on the web.  f) Micro Blogging Sites Microblogging sites allow users to submit short- written entries, photos, or other media such as links to product and service sites, as well as links to other social media users. These short updates can be seen by anyone who subscribed to receive the updates. The most popular microblogging website is Twitter. TO BE DISCUSSED  g) Video Conferencing Platforms These platforms enable online communication for audio and video meetings, and seminars, with built- in features such as chat, screen sharing, and recording. Examples of video conferencing platforms include Zoom and Skype.  Digital Concepts Media Convergence (MC): Refers to the merging of previously distinct media and technologies, such as print media, broadcast media, and new media, into a unified digital platform. Digital Diaspora (DD): Defined as the use of cyberspace by diasporic groups, including immigrants, to participate in virtual networks of contacts for a variety of purposes, especially the home culture, the host culture, or both.  Digital Concepts Virtual Reality (VR): Refers to a simulated experience of a 3D environment that enables users to explore and interact with virtual surroundings in a way that approximates reality, as it is perceived through the users' senses. Examples include a virtual gaming zone where players interact and play against each other. Augmented Reality (AR): Is an interactive experience that combines the real world and computer-generated content. Examples include Google Glass which offers an augmented reality experience by using visual, audio, and location- based inputs to provide relevant information.  Digital Concepts Big Data (BD): Is defined as a complex and huge set of information comprising structured, unstructured, and semi-structured datasets, which is challenging to manage using traditional data processing tools. It requires additional infrastructure to govern and analyze. Examples include online customer databases, documents, and emails.  Advantages  It is faster and more convenient.  The messages can be stored in the device for longer times, without being damaged.  No paper is wasted.  Disadvantages  It is unreliable  Digital communication causes the degradation of the environment  Illegal contents and virus damages end-user systems. The Rise of Digital Platforms Ubiquity of Social Remote Multimedia Content Media Collaboration Tools Social media platforms The rise of visual and have become The proliferation of multimedia content has ubiquitous, enabling virtual communication reshaped how we instant and global tools has transformed convey information, communication. how we work and fostering more engaging Navigating these digital collaborate, bridging and immersive spaces requires new geographical barriers. communication. etiquette and strategies. Effective Communication in the Digital Age 1 Crafting Concise Messages 2 Mastering Digital Etiquette Adapting to the fast-paced nature Understanding the nuances of of digital platforms by delivering online etiquette to maintain clear, concise, and impactful professionalism and build strong messages. relationships. 3 Embracing Multimedia 4 Fostering Empathy Leveraging visuals, audio, and Maintaining emotional intelligence interactive content to enhance and empathy to build genuine engagement and convey complex connections in the digital space. ideas effectively. Navigating Social Media Etiquette Mindful Posting Responsive Communication Carefully consider the content and tone of your social media posts, Promptly acknowledge and respond ensuring they align with your to messages, comments, and professional brand and values. inquiries to demonstrate engagement and build trust. Respectful Interactions Boundary Management Foster a positive and inclusive digital Establish clear boundaries between environment by engaging with others personal and professional in a courteous and constructive interactions on social media to manner. maintain a healthy work-life balance. Bridging the Gap: Balancing Digital and In-Person Interactions Virtual Connections Leveraging digital platforms to maintain relationships and foster collaboration across geographical boundaries. In-Person Engagement Prioritizing face-to-face interactions to build stronger, more personal connections and deepen understanding. Hybrid Approach Striking a balance between digital and in-person communication to create a seamless and inclusive experience. Overcoming Communication Challenges in Remote Work Video Collaborative Asynchronous Frequent Conferencing Tools Communicatio Feedback n Leveraging cloud- Establishing Utilizing video- based platforms regular feedback based to facilitate real- Embracing loops to ensure communication to time collaboration asynchronous transparency, foster face-to-face and document communication to alignment, and interactions and sharing. accommodate continuous build stronger diverse schedules improvement. connections. and work styles. Leveraging Technology to Enhance Collaboration 1 Virtual Whiteboards Interactive digital whiteboards that enable real-time brainstorming and ideation among remote teams. 2 Project Management Tools Collaborative platforms that facilitate task tracking, progress monitoring, and seamless coordination. 3 File Sharing and Storage Cloud-based solutions that enable secure access and version control of important documents and resources. The Future of Communication: Trends and Predictions Immersive Experiences Virtual and augmented reality technologies will revolutionize remote collaboration and enable more immersive communication. Artificial Intelligence AI-powered chatbots and virtual assistants will enhance customer service and provide personalized communication experiences. Seamless Integration Unified communication platforms will integrate various channels, enabling a more cohesive and streamlined communication ecosystem. Increased Accessibility Advancements in accessibility features will ensure inclusive communication experiences for individuals with diverse needs. Q&A