Slide 8 – Discussion: What is CMC?

Definition:

Computer-Mediated Communication (CMC) is any type of communication that happens through the use
of computers or digital devices instead of face-to-face interaction. It involves the exchange of messages,
information, or ideas using technology such as the internet, mobile phones, or other electronic
platforms.

Slide 9 – Discussion: Computer-Mediated Communication (CMC)

Definition in CALL Context:

Computer-Mediated Communication (CMC) is an emerging area within CALL (Computer-Assisted

Language Learning). It refers to using computers, the internet, and digital devices to interact, practice,
and learn language. Unlike traditional classrooms, CMC provides students with opportunities to
communicate with others beyond physical boundaries.

CMC can be analyzed through three main elements:

 Timing

Synchronous: Communication happens in real time.

Example: Online video classes, live chat rooms, Zoom discussions.

Asynchronous: Messages are sent and replied to at different times.

Example: Email, discussion boards, Google Classroom comments.

 Number of Participants

One-to-one: Direct communication between two people.

Example: Teacher-student email exchange, private chat.

One-to-many or many-to-many: A group interacts together.

Example: Class group chat on Messenger, group discussions on forums.

 Medium

The platform or tool used to communicate.

Examples: Email, social networking sites (Facebook, Instagram), learning management systems (Moodle,
Canvas), video conferencing apps (Google Meet, MS Teams).

Slide 10 – Discussion: What Do We Need for CMC?

For Computer-Mediated Communication (CMC) to work, certain tools and technology are required.
These needs depend on the type of communication being used.

 Computer Network Connection

The most basic requirement for all CMC systems is a reliable internet or computer network connection.
Without it, people cannot send or receive messages, whether it’s through email, chat, or video calls.

Example: Using Wi-Fi or mobile data to join an online class.

 Audio Conferencing

To communicate by voice over the internet, we need a microphone. This allows participants to speak and
be heard by others.

Example: Joining a Zoom call using your phone’s mic or a headset.

 Video Conferencing

For face-to-face interaction online, a video camera (or webcam) is required. This enables participants to
see each other while talking.

Example: Online interviews or virtual classrooms where students and teachers use cameras.

Slide 11 – Discussion: Interpersonal Communication Elements in CMC

Just like face-to-face interaction, Computer-Mediated Communication (CMC) also has elements that
make communication possible. However, these elements look a little different because technology is
involved.

 Sender’s Anonymity - In CMC, the sender may choose to hide or reveal their identity.

Example: Posting in an online forum using a screen name instead of your real name.

 Receiver - The person or group who gets the message.

Example: Your teacher receiving your email or classmates reading your group chat message.

 Channel - The medium or tool used for communication.

Example: Email, Messenger, Zoom, or Google Classroom.

 Messages - The actual content being shared (words, images, audio, video).

Example: Sending a written assignment via email or sharing a voice note in a chat.

 Feedback - The receiver’s response to the sender’s message. Feedback in CMC may be
immediate (synchronous) or delayed (asynchronous).

Example: A quick reply in Messenger (synchronous) vs. an email reply after 2 days
(asynchronous).

 Context in CMC - The situation or environment where communication happens.

 This includes the purpose, cultural background, and relationship of the people involved.

Example: A formal email sent to your professor vs. casual chat with a friend on Messenger.

Slide 13 – Discussion: Synchronous Communication

Definition:

Synchronous computer-mediated communication refers to communication that happens in real time.

This means the sender and receiver are online at the same moment, just like in a face-to-face
conversation.

Key Features:

 Instant exchange of messages

 Immediate feedback is possible
 Creates a sense of presence and interaction
 Requires both parties to be available at the same time

Examples:

Video Conferencing: Zoom, Google Meet, MS Teams

Instant Messaging/Chat: Messenger, WhatsApp, Viber

Online Gaming with Live Chat: Mobile Legends, Roblox, Fortnite

Slide 14 – Discussion: Features of Synchronous Communication

Synchronous communication happens in real time, and it has several important features that make it
effective for interaction:

1. Collaboration

 People can work together instantly on the same task.

Example: Students doing group work in a live Zoom breakout room.

2. Immediate Response

 Messages are answered right away since participants are present at the same time.

Example: A teacher asking a question in Google Meet and students answering immediately.

3. One-to-One Communication

 Direct, personal communication between two people is possible.

Example: A private video call between a student and a teacher.

4. Allows Body Language

 Video calls make it possible to see facial expressions, gestures, and tone of voice, which
help in understanding the message better.
 Example: Smiling or nodding during an online class discussion.

Slide 15 – Discussion: Synchronous Applications

Synchronous applications are digital tools that allow people to communicate in real time. These
applications make it possible to exchange messages instantly, just like having a live conversation.

Examples of Synchronous Applications:

1. Instant Messaging

o Apps like Messenger, WhatsApp, and Viber let people send and receive text, voice, or
emoji messages instantly.

2. Skype

o One of the earliest platforms for online calls and video chats, allowing users to talk or
see each other in real time.

3. Video Conferencing

o Tools such as Zoom, Google Meet, and MS Teams allow group meetings, classes, and
webinars with live audio and video.

4. Telephone Conversation

o Traditional phone calls are also synchronous because both parties communicate at the
same time.

5. Internet Relay Chat (IRC)

o A real-time chat system that was popular in the early days of the internet, where users
could join chat rooms and talk instantly.

Slide 17 – Discussion: Asynchronous Communication

Definition:
Asynchronous computer-mediated communication refers to communication where people interact at
different times. Unlike synchronous communication, it does not happen in real time—there is always a
delay between sending and receiving messages.

Key Features:

 Participants do not need to be online at the same time

 Provides time to think before responding

 Useful for communication across different time zones

 Messages can be stored, reviewed, and answered later

Examples:

 Email: Sending assignments or questions to a teacher, who replies later

  Online Discussion Boards/Forums: Posting an opinion and waiting for classmates to respond

 Learning Management Systems (LMS): Google Classroom, Moodle posts and comments

 Social Media Posts/Comments: Sharing a post and receiving reactions or replies hours or days
later

Slide 18 – Discussion: Features of Asynchronous Communication

Asynchronous CMC has several features that make it different from real-time communication. These
features show why it is useful for learning, working, and connecting across distances.

1. Time Delay

o Messages are not exchanged instantly; there is a gap between sending and receiving.

o Example: Sending an email and getting a reply the next day.

2. Flexibility

o Participants can respond whenever it is convenient for them.

o Example: Students answering a forum discussion at night after their classes.

3. Persistence / Recordability

o Messages are stored and can be reviewed later.

o Example: Reading past Google Classroom announcements or forum posts.

4. Thoughtful Responses

o Since there is no pressure to reply immediately, participants can think carefully before
answering.

o Example: Writing a detailed response in a discussion board.

5. Accessibility

o Participants in different locations and time zones can still communicate effectively.

o Example: International students collaborating on a project via email.

6. Reduced Pressure

o No need to respond on the spot, which lowers anxiety for some students.

o Example: Shy learners preferring to write in forums instead of speaking in live classes.

7. Lack of Immediate Feedback

o Since responses are delayed, clarification or correction may take longer.

o Example: Waiting hours or days for a teacher to reply to a question sent through email.

Slide 19 – Discussion: Asynchronous Communication Examples

Asynchronous applications are tools that allow people to communicate, share, and work together
without being online at the same time. These tools are widely used in schools, workplaces, and online
communities.

Examples:

1. Email Platforms

o Examples: Gmail, Yahoo Mail, Outlook

o Used for sending messages, assignments, or documents with delayed responses.

2. Learning Management Systems (LMS)

o Examples: Google Classroom, Moodle, Canvas

o Teachers post lessons, announcements, and assignments, while students respond at

their own pace.

3. Discussion Forums/Boards

o Examples: Reddit, Quora, school discussion boards

o Students or users post questions/opinions, and others reply later.

4. Project Management Tools

o Examples: Trello, Asana, ClickUp

o Allow teams to assign tasks, post updates, and track progress without needing live
conversations.

5. Collaboration Platforms

o Examples: Slack (in asynchronous mode), Basecamp

o People can leave comments or share files for others to check later.

6. Video Platforms (Asynchronous Use)

o Examples: YouTube, Loom, Flipgrid

o Videos are recorded and uploaded for others to watch and respond to anytime.

7. Document Sharing & Collaboration

o Examples: Google Drive, Dropbox, OneDrive

o Files and documents can be uploaded and edited whenever convenient.

Slide 21 – Discussion: Impersonal Communication in CMC

Definition:
Impersonal computer-mediated communication (CMC) occurs when people use technology to interact,
but the exchange lacks emotional depth or personal connection compared to face-to-face conversations.
Key Characteristic:

 The absence of nonverbal cues such as body language, facial expressions, and tone of voice.

 Without these, messages can sometimes feel flat, formal, or even misunderstood.

Examples:

 Sending a formal email to a teacher or company where no emotions are shown.

 Posting an announcement in Google Classroom without any emojis, images, or voice tone.

 Automated system notifications (e.g., “Your assignment has been submitted successfully.”).

Effects:

 Communication may feel distant, professional, or emotionless.

 Misinterpretation can happen since receivers don’t have body language or tone to guide
understanding.

Slide 22 – Discussion: Characteristics of Impersonal Communication

Impersonal communication in CMC is often more formal and less personal because it lacks the warmth of
face-to-face interaction. Here are its main characteristics:

1. Text-Based Interaction

o Most impersonal CMC relies mainly on written text, with little to no use of voice, video,
or images.

o Example: A teacher posting plain written instructions in Google Classroom without

further explanation.

2. Limited Emotional Engagement

o Messages focus on information rather than feelings, making communication seem

distant or formal.

o Example: An official email from a school office confirming enrollment.

3. Reduction in Social Cues

o Since there are no facial expressions, gestures, or tone of voice, messages may feel cold
or unclear.

o Example: A short reply like “Noted.” in a chat can be misinterpreted as rude or neutral.

Slide 23 – Discussion: Interpersonal Communication in CMC

Definition:
Interpersonal communication in CMC is a more relational and personal form of digital communication.
Unlike impersonal exchanges, it seeks to replicate the dynamics of face-to-face conversations, making
interactions warmer and more engaging.
How It Works:

Through technology, people can now use tools that include voice, video, and visual cues, which add
emotional depth to the interaction.

Examples:

 Video Calls: Zoom, Skype, Google Meet, where tone of voice, gestures, and facial expressions are
visible.

 Voice Chats: Messenger voice calls, Discord, or Viber, where tone and emotion are carried
through sound.

 Social Media Interaction: Using emojis, reactions, GIFs, or video stories to express feelings and
personality.

Why It Matters:

 Helps build stronger personal connections.

 Reduces misunderstandings since tone and expressions provide extra meaning.

 Creates a more natural flow, similar to real conversations.

Slide 24 – Discussion: Characteristics of Interpersonal Communication

Interpersonal communication in CMC feels more personal and relational because it tries to capture the
dynamics of face-to-face interaction. Its main characteristics include:

1. Inclusion of Social Cues

 Communication goes beyond plain text by including tone of voice, gestures, emojis, or facial
expressions.

Example: Smiling on a video call or using 😊 in a chat to show friendliness.

2. Increased Emotional Engagement

 People can express feelings more clearly, making the interaction warmer and more personal.

Example: A supportive voice message from a friend or a heartfelt reaction to a post.

3. Real-Time Exchanges

 Often happens synchronously, allowing instant responses and a more natural conversation
flow.

Example: Talking to classmates in a live Zoom breakout room.

Slide 25 – Discussion: Hyperpersonal Communication

Definition:
The term “hyperpersonal” was introduced by Joseph Walther to describe a type of CMC where
individuals present an idealized version of themselves online. This often makes online interactions feel
even more personal—or sometimes “better”—than face-to-face communication.

Key Idea:

 In hyperpersonal communication, people carefully choose what they show (photos, words,
reactions), which can make them appear more confident, attractive, or friendly than in real life.

 Because of this, connections online can sometimes feel closer and stronger than those offline.

Examples:

 A person curating only their best photos on Instagram to appear more appealing.

 Someone writing witty or thoughtful responses in a chat after carefully thinking about their
words.

 Online friendships or romantic relationships that grow faster and feel more intense than in-
person ones.

Why It Happens:

 Selective self-presentation: People can control what others see.

 Reduced cues: Without constant facial expressions or body language, individuals can “fill in the
gaps” with imagination.

 Asynchronous communication: Having more time to edit or refine messages before sending.

Slide 26 – Discussion: Characteristics of Hyperpersonal Communication

Hyperpersonal communication in CMC goes beyond normal interpersonal exchanges because it often
creates stronger or more intense connections online than in face-to-face settings. Its main characteristics
include:

1. Enhanced Self-Presentation

 Individuals carefully manage how they appear online, often highlighting only their best
qualities.

Example: Posting edited photos, witty captions, or well-thought-out responses to look

more impressive.

2. Heightened Emotional Intimacy

 Online interactions can sometimes feel “closer” because people share personal thoughts and
feelings more openly than in person.

Example: Confiding secrets in a late-night chat that you might hesitate to say face-to-
face.
 3. Asynchronous Communication

 Since many online exchanges happen with a time delay, people can take time to craft, edit,
and perfect their messages before sending them.

Example: Rewriting a text or email several times to make sure it sounds just right.

Slide 26 – Discussion: Technology’s Role in Shaping Communication Forms

Technology plays a major role in shaping how people communicate online. The forms of CMC—
impersonal, interpersonal, and hyperpersonal—all exist because of the tools and platforms that
technology provides.

1. Impersonal Communication

o Technology enables quick, text-based exchanges (emails, announcements, system

notifications).

o Messages are efficient but lack emotional depth since nonverbal cues are absent.

o Example: A school sending an automated email about grades.

2. Interpersonal Communication

o Advancements like video calls, emojis, voice notes, and live chats make communication
warmer and more personal.

o Technology now allows tone of voice, gestures, and even real-time collaboration.

o Example: Students using Zoom or Google Meet for online classes where teachers can
smile, gesture, and interact directly.

3. Hyperpersonal Communication

o Social media and online platforms allow people to selectively present themselves, often
leading to idealized identities.

o Features like profile editing, filters, and asynchronous messaging make relationships feel
more intense or “better than real.”

o Example: Curating Instagram posts to appear more attractive or carefully composing a

long chat message to impress someone.

Conclusion:
As technology advances, communication becomes more flexible and complex. It can make interactions
faster and more efficient (impersonal), warmer and more engaging (interpersonal), or even intensely
idealized (hyperpersonal).