Discuss how temporal structure distinguishes social media from face-to-face communication. Compare synchronous and asynchronous communication as part of your response.

Question

What will be an ideal response?

Answer 1

- Temporal Structure: The time it takes to send and receive messages.
- A device's temporal structure refers to the time it takes to send and receive messages. Face-to-face conversations, phone calls, and online instant messages occur in real time and are synchronous forms of communication whereby each person simultaneously serves as sender and receiver. When we use email, send a text message, or direct-message someone on Twitter, delays often occur and we must alternate being the sender and receiver of a message. These interactions are asynchronous methods of communication, but often they could be just as synchronous as a phone call. How quickly does it take you to respond to a text message? More than likely you feel a strong need to respond and maintain a connection with the person who texts you. In the workplace, colleagues often send and reply to messages so quickly (sometimes via collaboration tools such as Slack) that the exchange could easily be viewed as a synchronous form of communication.
- Synchronous social media can make messages feel more personal and even make you feel more connected with your significant other when you are far apart. Unlike some synchronous social media, the asynchronous types may permit you to manage your self-presentation more strategically.