f2f & cmc

Although I don't agree completely with Walther's social information processing theory (SIP), his work has had a tremendous influence on the study of online interaction. As Griffin notes, Walther's 1992 journal article detailing the theory won a prestigious award from the National Communication Association. Most important from my perspective is this: "While most scholars assumed that online communication is an inherently inferior medium for relational communication, he [Walther] rejected that brand of technological determinism" (p. 148). Unfortunately, some scholars, particularly those in communication, still adhere to an old-fashioned view of online communication, arguing that in person communication is inherently superior. But Walther's work demonstrated that assumption is not supported.

Those immersed in new communication technologies find the distinctions between online and offline communication silly. At work and in social relationships, communicators generally move seamlessly among the various communication tools available. Early notions of "virtual" vs. "real" relationships seem quaint. Certainly online classes are just as real as in person ones. Most of my relationships involve a combination of in person, phone, and online communication. The percentages vary with the relationship, but generally are based on how far away that person lives from me. What the internet (and cell phones) has done is allowed me to more easily maintain connections with friends across the country and around the world.

~ Professor Cyborg