What is communication? This is certainly a loaded question, but an important one to ponder, especially for someone pursuing language study to meet particular goals. In putting together our podcast project, my group and I have readily discussed how we can best identify and successfully implement ruptures in language and in formality between native and non-native Japanese language speakers to convey our larger messages. Indeed, communication is not solely bound to language and to understand communication, it is of profound importance to have an equal understanding of lapses in communication. Thus, we hope to use this opportunity to learn what not to say, and how not to act in a variety of would-be-organic situations, be researching and eventually showcasing (through our podcast) the importance of acting in accordance with proper notions of formality or informality depending on the situation. We further hope to learn how one can successfully develop rapport through effective communication, as well as how communication barriers can be (patiently) navigated and potentially circumvented altogether by way of proper, vigorous language learning.
As a graduate student in the social sciences and humanities, reflecting on language within the larger category of communication is crucial. It is arguably the most central factor to the proliferation of my research ability and career marketability. My projected career will require me to communicate not only people of different linguistic backgrounds, but also written scholarship and early texts, all of which require solid working language aptitude. Proper communication is thus absolutely essential to my work and goals, and will hopefully allow me the ability to participate in collaborative learning and inquiry across numerous boundaries.
ジョン
