The Impact of Texting Language on Students' Literacy Standards
In the early 1950s, a major newspaper in the United States began shortening certain words to fit more information into their headlines. Words like night became nite, and governor became gov. This practice not only altered spellings but also contributed to a shift in language norms. A famous headline from 1935, Sticks Nix Hick Pix, exemplifies how advertisers and popular media influenced the language by creating new words and abbreviations.
Variety in Language Through History
The evolution of language is a continuous process. Advertisers, for instance, have always played a significant role in inventing new words to promote products. Consider the word halitosis, which was coined to sell mouthwash. In addition, local newspapers often use abbreviations and code words to save space and fit descriptions efficiently. This phenomenon is not different from the language of text messages, which has become a standard form of communication among young people.
The Psychology of Text Messaging
Text messaging, similar to the language used by soldiers during World War I and World War II, introduces a secondary language or dialect among teenagers. This dialect is designed to circumvent the attention of parents and other adults. Just as soldiers returning from war brought back new words and phrases, so do modern teenagers bring their own slang and abbreviations. This form of language usage provides students with additional neural pathways, which can enhance their overall cognitive abilities and learning skills.
Literacy in the Digital Age
The assumption that texting language and web shorthand are simply dumbed-down versions of English is shortsighted. These forms of communication are dialects of their own accord. As literacy is traditionally defined as the ability to read and write a language, including dialects, texting language should be considered and valued as a form of literacy.
Computers and digital technologies, such as URLs, ISP numbers, links, gifs, and memes, have not diminished students' literacy. Instead, these technologies have opened up a new avenue for creative and expressive communication. However, in the digital age, students are increasingly sidetracked by electronic devices, which can detract from traditional reading and writing habits. This shift poses the greatest challenge to maintaining high literacy standards.
Conclusion
The evolution of language, including texting language, is a natural and ongoing process. Texting language, like any other dialect, should be recognized and valued in its own right. By acknowledging and incorporating these forms of communication, educators can better tap into the diverse linguistic abilities of their students and foster a more inclusive educational environment. The key to enhancing literacy standards in the digital age lies in striking a balance between traditional and modern forms of communication.