The Impact of SMS on the Writing Skills of Nigerian Students

The influence of SMS on the composition and writing skills of Nigerian students is a subject of ongoing debate and research. The debate hinges on whether the use of text messaging language (SMS) has a negative impact on formal writing skills or whether it can be a tool for enhancing writing skills through creativity and brevity.

The Nature of SMS and Its Growing Popularity

Short Message Service (SMS) is a mobile phone feature that allows users to send and receive text messages of up to 160 characters. As the use of mobile phones has become ubiquitous in Nigeria, SMS has become a significant part of daily communication, especially among younger generations.

Impact on Formal Writing Skills

Some studies suggest that the use of SMS language can have a negative impact on formal writing skills, particularly in academic settings. Words and phrases that are abbreviated or use informal contractions, emojis, and shorthand can carry over into written assignments, leading to a decline in clarity, coherence, and formal standards.

Examples of Impact on Formal Writing

Abbreviations and Acronyms: Students may begin using abbreviations like 'lol' (laugh out loud), 'ttyl' (talk to you later), or 'brb' (be right back) which are inappropriate in academic writing. Contractions: SMS often uses contractions such as "don't" instead of "do not," which can be problematic in formal writing contexts where full forms are required. Word Choice: The frequent use of informal words and slang in text messages can spill over into written assignments, leading to a lack of precision and sophistication in language use.

Positive Influence on Writing Skills

Other studies and observations have shown that SMS can have a positive impact on writing skills by encouraging creativity and brevity. The concise nature of text messages can help students develop the ability to convey ideas efficiently and succinctly, a valuable skill in academic and professional settings.

Encouraging Creativity and Brevity

The challenge posed by text message limits can force students to think creatively and come up with innovative ways to express themselves within those constraints. This may lead to a more dynamic and engaging writing style in both informal and formal contexts.

Factors Influencing the Impact of SMS on Writing Skills

Ultimately, the impact of SMS on the composition and writing skills of Nigerian students is likely to depend on a range of factors, including the students' age, educational background, and exposure to both formal and informal language use.

Age and Exposure to Formal Language

Younger students who are still in the process of learning basic writing skills may be more vulnerable to the negative influence of SMS on their writing. However, as they grow older and receive more formal language education, they may develop strategies to mitigate these effects.

Educational Background

Students' educational background can also play a crucial role. Those with a strong foundation in academic writing will be better equipped to identify and correct the impact of SMS language. Conversely, those without this foundation may struggle to maintain the standards required for academic writing.

Strategies for Mitigation

Given the two-sided nature of the impact of SMS on writing skills, it is crucial for educators to adopt strategies that help mitigate the negative effects while leveraging the positive ones. These strategies may include:

Teaching proper grammar and punctuation rules through the use of literary excerpts, essays, and writing assignments. Encouraging the use of formal language in written assignments and providing feedback on language use. Developing writing exercises specifically designed to improve clarity, coherence, and sophistication of language. Integrating technology in the classroom to teach students how to effectively use digital tools for research and writing.

Conclusion

The debate over the impact of SMS on the writing skills of Nigerian students is complex and multifaceted. While there are valid concerns about the potential negative effects, there are also positive aspects to consider. By understanding the factors that influence this impact and taking proactive steps to mitigate any negative effects, educators can help students develop the writing skills they need to succeed in both academic and professional settings.