March 03, 2005
Study: Instant Messaging is Surprisingly Formal :-)
A study takes a look at the grammar and mechanics of instant messaging
Take this with a wink and a LOL: IM is more formal than you might think. But hey, guys, your punctuation stinks.Instant messaging (IM) is a relatively new form of communication, in which two people exchange typed messages instantaneously over the Internet. Although written, the fact that IM is more immediate and direct than email makes it seem more like speech than writing.
But a recent study of IM-ing by college students found that the communication was more formal – in use of vocabulary and abbreviations – than might be expected in a speech-like medium. The research also uncovered significant differences in how men and women use the medium.
“The most important finding is that IM by college students does not look like bad writing,” said Naomi Baron of American University.
Baron reviewed 23 different conversations and surveyed 158 students. When divided along gender lines, the messages between females were more formal – with fewer contractions and better punctuation – than those between males.
[ Full Story @ LifeScience(Study: Instant Messaging is Surprisingly Formal :-)) ]
Source: LifeScience © 2005 Imaginova Corp
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