CALICUT UNIVERSITY – FOUR-YEAR

UNDERGRADUATE PROGRAMME (CU-

FYUGP)

BA ENGLISH LANGUAGE AND

LITERATURE HONOURS

First Semester- Minor

Notes( Set 2)

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 VOCATIONAL MINOR ENGLISH

Semester -1

ENGLISH IN INDUSTRY

ENG1VN101 ENGLISH FOR RADIO JOCKEYING AND ANCHORING

Prepared by

Dr. Atheetha K. Unni

Assistant Professor

Research and PG Department of English

St. Aloysius College, Elthuruth

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 MODULE 1

1. Introduction to Public Speaking in the Digital Era

The digital revolution has transformed how public speaking is perceived and practiced. Traditional
oratory in front of live audiences is no longer the only form of public speaking. With the rise of
social media platforms, webinars, podcasts, and video conferencing tools, public speaking has
expanded to include various virtual platforms. The skills required in this new context include:

• Adaptability: Adapting content and delivery styles for different platforms like YouTube,
Instagram, Zoom, or Microsoft Teams.
• Audience Engagement: Techniques for keeping online audiences engaged, such as
interactive elements like polls, Q&A, and multimedia presentations.
• Technology Savvy: Mastering various digital tools like microphones, lighting, video
editing, and presentation software is crucial for a polished performance.

Key Challenge: Unlike traditional settings, digital public speaking can feel disconnected since
speakers often do not have live feedback from their audience, making it harder to adjust in real
time.

2. Synchronous and Asynchronous Public Speaking

Synchronous Public Speaking: This type of speaking happens in real-time with live audience
interaction. Speakers can adapt their delivery based on instant feedback (e.g., facial expressions
or chat box responses). Examples include live webinars, video conferences, and live social media
streams (like Instagram Live or Facebook Live). The immediacy allows for spontaneous
engagement, but it also introduces technical risks like connectivity issues or unmuted participants.

Techniques: Effective time management, engaging interaction (polls, Q&A), technical

proficiency to handle unexpected glitches, and keeping the audience’s attention.

• Asynchronous Public Speaking: In contrast, asynchronous speaking involves pre-

recorded presentations or speeches that audiences watch at their convenience, such as
YouTube videos or pre-recorded podcasts. The advantage is that the speaker has complete

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 control over the recording, allowing edits and refinement. However, the challenge is
ensuring that content remains engaging without live interaction.

Techniques: Crafting clear, concise content, maintaining a conversational tone, and

anticipating audience questions to address in the recording.

3. Overcoming Nervousness and Adapting to Social Media Platforms

Even experienced speakers experience nervousness, but the digital realm can exacerbate anxiety
due to its unfamiliar technology and the pressure of speaking to potentially large audiences.
Nervousness is often amplified by the lack of direct audience feedback, as speakers may feel like
they are speaking into a void.

• Overcoming Nervousness:
• Practice: Rehearse in front of a camera multiple times to become familiar with
both content and technology.
• Visualization: Picture a successful outcome to help build confidence.
• Relaxation Techniques: Deep breathing exercises, grounding techniques, and
using positive affirmations.
• Adapting to Social Media: Social media platforms like Instagram, reels in FB, or
LinkedIn each have unique algorithms and audience engagement models. To effectively
communicate, speakers must:
• Tailor content: Short, visually appealing posts work best on reels, while longer,
informative videos might work better on YouTube.
• Stay Updated: Adapt to changing trends and updates in algorithms to ensure your
content remains visible to a broader audience.

4. The Benefits of Persuasive Speaking for Social Media Influencers and Aspirants

Persuasive speaking is a cornerstone for anyone looking to influence opinions or build a following,
especially on social media. The ability to persuade depends on three core elements of rhetoric:

• Ethos (Credibility): Your authority or credibility on a subject. As an influencer,

credibility is built through consistent, valuable content, transparency, and authenticity.

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 • Pathos (Emotion): Engaging the emotions of your audience to create a connection.
Influencers often use storytelling to appeal to the emotions of their viewers, making their
content more relatable.
• Logos (Logic): Using facts, statistics, and logical arguments to back your claims. For
social media influencers, this might mean backing product promotions with statistics or
case studies.

Importance:

• Building Trust: Effective persuasive speaking fosters trust between the influencer and the
audience, which is crucial for long-term engagement.
• Call to Action (CTA): Well-crafted persuasive speech can drive a specific action, such as
purchasing a product, signing up for a newsletter, or attending an event.

5. Captivating Audiences with Delivery Techniques: Mastering the Art of Vocal Projection
and Modulation

The delivery of a speech or presentation is as important as the content. In digital spaces,

captivating delivery techniques are even more crucial because physical presence and body
language are often limited.

• Vocal Projection: Ensuring your voice reaches the audience clearly and confidently, even
through a microphone. Proper projection prevents a monotonous tone and keeps your
audience engaged.
• Modulation: Varying the pitch, tone, and speed of speech to maintain audience interest.
Monotone speakers quickly lose their audience, especially in digital settings where
attention spans are shorter.
• Delivery Techniques:
• Pacing: Speaking too fast can confuse the audience, while speaking too slowly can
cause them to lose interest. The key is finding the right balance.
• Pauses: Strategic pauses emphasize key points and allow the audience to digest
information.
• Body Language (Even Online): Even when speaking online, non-verbal cues like
facial expressions and hand gestures can add depth to your delivery.

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Tip: Practice speaking with varied intonation and pacing in front of a mirror or camera to better
understand how your delivery appears to an audience.

6. Exploring Virtual Reality (VR) and Augmented Reality (AR) in Presentations

Virtual Reality (VR) and Augmented Reality (AR) offer unique ways to engage audiences through
immersive experiences. Presenters can now create entire virtual environments where their
audience can interact with their content, making it more memorable and engaging.

Virtual Reality:

• VR can simulate real-life scenarios for audiences, allowing for a more interactive
experience. For instance, a business presentation might use VR to simulate a company's
workspace or showcase a new product.

Augmented Reality:

• AR adds interactive elements to real-world environments. For example, presenters

can use AR to allow viewers to scan a code on their device and see a 3D model of
a product.

Advantages:

• Increases engagement through interactivity.

• Makes complex data or abstract concepts easier to understand through visualizations.

Challenges:

• Requires technological know-how and resources.

• May be difficult to implement for smaller presentations or on platforms without AR/VR
capabilities.

7. Building a Personal Brand Through Public Speaking

Public speaking, both online and offline, can be an essential tool for building and promoting a
personal brand. Whether you're a professional speaker, influencer, or entrepreneur, your brand is

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defined by your expertise, communication style, and how consistently you deliver your message
across platforms.

• Key Elements of Personal Branding:

• Authenticity: Staying true to your values and expertise is essential in building
long-term trust.
• Consistency: Whether it’s your tone, message, or delivery style, consistent
branding across platforms builds recognition and trust.
• Storytelling: Your personal story, the challenges you’ve overcome, and your
mission should be central to your brand.

Tips:

• Use public speaking opportunities, whether on social media, podcasts, or conferences, to

reinforce your brand.
• Engage with your audience authentically and share insights that reflect your personal
journey and values.

MODULE 2

1. News Reading and Anchoring Skills and Techniques

• News Reading: This is the art of delivering pre-scripted news to an audience. A news
reader is primarily focused on the accurate, neutral delivery of news reports, typically
seated behind a desk and reading off a teleprompter. The tone is formal and neutral, with
minimal emotional input to ensure impartiality. The objective is to inform the public
without offering personal opinions.
o Skills Involved:
▪ A clear, consistent pace of speech to ensure listeners understand the news.
▪ Excellent articulation and pronunciation to avoid confusion.
▪ Professional appearance and demeanor, often dictated by the broadcasting
organization’s standards.

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 • News Anchoring: Anchors not only read news but also lead live discussions, moderate
debates, conduct interviews, and handle breaking news in real time. An anchor's job is
more dynamic and involves both delivering prepared news and responding to live
situations.
o Skills Involved:
▪ Quick thinking and the ability to improvise when new information is
introduced.
▪ Strong communication skills, as anchors often interact with multiple
contributors during a broadcast.
▪ High levels of confidence and poise under pressure, especially during live
shows or when technical issues arise.

2. A News Anchor versus a News Reader

• News Reader: A news reader’s role is mostly passive in that they read scripts prepared by
editors. Their primary responsibility is to deliver the content as written, ensuring clarity
and professionalism. The focus is on clear delivery, proper pronunciation, and ensuring
the pace matches the tone of the broadcast.
o Key Skills:
▪ Strong reading and verbal skills to deliver news accurately.
▪ Neutral tone of voice to avoid influencing audience perception.
• News Anchor: Anchors are the face of a news channel and often participate in shaping the
content. They not only read but also analyze, explain, and offer context to the news stories.
Anchors are expected to handle breaking news with authority, lead discussions, and often
interview guests.
o Key Skills:
▪ Leadership and critical thinking to handle live broadcasts.
▪ Ability to engage with a wide range of topics, often across politics,
economics, and social issues.
▪ In-depth knowledge of current affairs.

Difference: While both present the news, anchors play a more active role in the news cycle,
involving deeper interaction with both the news and the audience.

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3. Anchoring from an Outdoor Location, Sports Anchoring

• Outdoor Anchoring: This involves broadcasting from a location outside the studio, often
live. Outdoor anchors must adapt to changing conditions (e.g., weather, crowd noise).
These broadcasts often occur during events, protests, or natural disasters where the anchor
must report directly from the scene, sometimes without a script.
o Challenges:
▪ Managing distractions and environmental factors like noise, weather, or
crowd reactions.
▪ Handling equipment like microphones, cameras, and OB (outside
broadcast) vans.
• Sports Anchoring: This requires providing live commentary, interviews with athletes,
and post-game analysis. It involves knowledge of the sport, its rules, players, and strategy
to provide insightful and engaging content.
o Key Skills:
▪ Fast-paced delivery, as sports events move quickly and often unpredictably.
▪ Ability to build excitement and tension for the audience.
▪ Detailed knowledge of the sport being covered.4. Business Anchoring,
Entertainment Anchoring

• Business Anchoring: A business anchor reports on the financial markets, stocks,

economic trends, and corporate news. They need to simplify complex economic data for a
general audience while maintaining accuracy. This type of anchoring often includes
interviews with experts in finance and economics.
o Key Skills:
▪ Strong knowledge of economics and business trends.
▪ Ability to explain financial jargon in simple terms.
▪ Analytical skills to interpret and explain market movements.
• Entertainment Anchoring: This involves covering the entertainment industry, including
celebrity news, movies, music, and events like awards shows. Entertainment anchors need
to be lively and charismatic, often adopting a more informal and engaging style of delivery.
o Key Skills:
▪ A lively and engaging style that keeps viewers interested.

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 ▪ Knowledge of pop culture and current entertainment trends.
▪ The ability to engage in light-hearted conversation and interviews.

5. Lifestyle Anchoring, Weather Anchoring

• Lifestyle Anchoring: Lifestyle anchors cover areas such as fashion, health, travel, and
personal wellness. The tone is more conversational, and anchors in this field often interact
directly with their audience through social media or live Q&A segments.
o Key Skills:
▪ Friendly, relatable tone to engage viewers.
▪ Expertise in the specific lifestyle area being discussed, such as fitness or
fashion.
▪ Ability to give advice or recommendations based on trends.
• Weather Anchoring: Weather anchors provide detailed weather reports, often using maps
and charts. They need to understand meteorology basics and be able to explain weather
patterns and forecasts in a way that viewers can easily understand. Weather reports are
often critical during storms or natural disasters, so anchors must maintain calm while
delivering potentially life-saving information.
o Key Skills:
▪ Strong ability to interpret meteorological data.
▪ Calm and clear delivery, especially during emergency weather conditions.
▪ Proficiency with graphical weather displays and maps.

6. Ethics, Law, and Deciphering Fake from Fact

• Ethics: Journalists, including news readers and anchors, must adhere to a strict ethical
code, which includes impartiality, accuracy, and transparency. They must avoid personal
biases and ensure that their reporting is fair and balanced.
• Law: News anchors must be aware of laws regarding defamation, privacy, and intellectual
property. Reporting false information can lead to lawsuits, so verifying facts before
reporting is crucial.
• Deciphering Fake News: Anchors play a critical role in ensuring that fake news is not
spread. They need to cross-check facts with multiple reliable sources and be aware of
misinformation trends.

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7. Conducting Phonos, OBs, and Interviews

• Phonos: Phonos are live telephone interviews conducted during broadcasts. The anchor
must guide the interview, ensuring the conversation stays relevant and flows smoothly
despite the remote nature of the interaction.
• Outside Broadcasts (OBs): This is live reporting from the field. The anchor needs to
manage distractions and work with the technical crew to ensure the broadcast is seamless.
The ability to report in unpredictable conditions is essential.
• Interviews: Conducting interviews is a key role for anchors, whether in the studio or via
live remote connections. They must prepare well-researched questions and be able to
follow up with insightful queries, ensuring the conversation is informative and engaging
for the audience.

8. Panel Discussions and Talk Shows

• Panel Discussions: Anchors often moderate panel discussions involving multiple experts.
They need to ensure the discussion is balanced, allowing all participants to speak while
keeping the conversation focused and relevant. Time management is key in keeping
discussions within the allocated time.
• Talk Shows: These are more casual than news broadcasts, often focusing on lighter topics.
The anchor must be charismatic, able to engage both guests and the audience while guiding
the conversation toward meaningful or entertaining conclusions.

9. Reading a Teleprompter and Voice Modulation

• Reading a Teleprompter: Anchors rely on teleprompters to read scripts smoothly without

looking down at papers. It is essential to maintain eye contact with the camera while
reading, making the delivery appear natural and confident. Practice is crucial to mastering
the ability to read ahead while delivering a current line.
• Voice Modulation: This involves varying pitch, pace, and tone to keep the audience
engaged. Good voice modulation adds emphasis to important points and avoids a
monotonous delivery, which could lose the audience’s attention.

10. Preparing for a Career in Anchoring

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To prepare for a career in anchoring, students need to:

• Develop a Strong Portfolio: Build a demo reel showcasing versatility across different
types of anchoring (news, interviews, panel discussions).
• Vocal Training: Professional training to improve voice clarity, projection, and
modulation.
• Current Affairs Knowledge: Stay updated on global news, politics, and trends.
• On-Camera Practice: Regular practice in front of the camera to build confidence and
comfort with teleprompters and live audiences.

11. Anchoring Scripts for Various Events

• Event Anchoring: Live events such as award shows, festivals, or conferences require
scripts that blend formal and conversational tones. The anchor must be able to engage a
live audience, maintain professionalism, and manage time effectively.
• Sample Script for an Award Show:
o "Good evening, ladies and gentlemen. Welcome to the 20th Annual Innovation
Awards! Tonight, we celebrate the brilliant minds that have pushed the boundaries
of creativity and innovation. We have an exciting program lined up, so without
further ado, let’s get started with our first category of the evening: Best Startup of
the Year."

Description of various types of events, along with sample anchoring scripts tailored to their
specific tone and structure.

1. School/College Annual Day Event

Description:
An Annual Day event is a celebration of the academic year’s achievements, involving
performances, speeches, awards, and recognitions. The tone is typically formal yet celebratory,
with a focus on highlighting student and faculty accomplishments.

Sample Script:

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Anchor1:
"Good evening, respected Principal, dear faculty, honored guests, and our wonderful students!
Welcome to the Annual Day celebration of [School/College Name]. It’s a day of joy and pride as
we look back at our achievements and take a moment to appreciate all the hard work and
dedication put in by our students and staff throughout the year."

Anchor2:
"To begin this evening on a spiritual note, let’s seek the blessings of the Almighty. I would like to
call upon [Name] to lead us in prayer."

(After the prayer)

Anchor1:
"Thank you for that lovely prayer. Now, to officially welcome everyone to this joyous occasion, I
would like to invite our respected Principal, [Principal's Name], to deliver the welcome address."

(After the welcome speech)

Anchor2:
"Thank you, Sir/Ma'am, for those inspiring words. Moving forward, we are honored to present
the 'Best Department Award,' which acknowledges the exceptional contributions of one of our
departments. I invite [Chief Guest/Dignitary] to present the award."

(After the award presentation)

Anchor1:
"What a proud moment! Up next, we have a cultural treat for you. Sit back and enjoy a
mesmerizing dance performance by our talented students. Let’s give them a round of applause!"

(Continue the event with performances, speeches, and finally the closing)

Anchor2:
"As we come to the conclusion of this wonderful evening, I would like to extend our sincere thanks
to everyone who made this event possible. A special thanks to our sponsors, faculty members, and,
of course, our amazing students. Thank you all for being a part of this celebration. Have a great
evening!"
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2. Wedding Reception

Description:
A wedding reception is a joyous occasion celebrating the union of the bride and groom, featuring
speeches, toasts, music, and dinner. The atmosphere is warm and festive, with a personal touch.

Sample Script:

Anchor:
"Good evening, everyone! On behalf of the lovely couple, [Bride's Name] and [Groom's Name],
I warmly welcome you to this beautiful evening of love, joy, and celebration. We are here to
witness the beginning of a new journey, filled with endless love and togetherness."

"Before we move forward, let’s hear from the couple themselves. Please give a round of applause
as they come up to share a few words with us."

(After the couple’s speech)

"Thank you, [Bride's Name] and [Groom's Name]. That was heartfelt and beautiful. Now, let’s
hear from [Father/Mother of the Bride/Groom], who would like to say a few words on this special
occasion."

(After the speeches)

"Now, it’s time for the first dance! Please welcome the bride and groom to the dance floor as they
share their first dance as husband and wife!"

3. Corporate Conference

Description:
Corporate conferences are professional gatherings where employees, partners, and stakeholders
meet to discuss company achievements, future plans, and industry trends. The tone is formal,
professional, and informative.

Sample Script:

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Anchor:
"Good morning, ladies and gentlemen. On behalf of [Company Name], I would like to welcome
you all to our Annual Corporate Conference 2024. This is an exciting time as we gather to reflect
on the past year’s achievements and look forward to new innovations and growth in the coming
year."

"We are honored to have with us [CEO’s Name], who will kick off today’s event with an opening
keynote on the state of the company and our future plans. Please welcome our CEO to the stage."

(After the keynote)

"Thank you, [CEO’s Name], for that insightful address. Next on the agenda, we have a panel
discussion on ‘The Future of Digital Innovation,’ featuring industry experts. Please join me in
welcoming our esteemed panelists to the stage."

(After the panel discussion)

"Thank you to our panelists for such an engaging discussion. We will now take a short break for
refreshments. Please be back in 15 minutes for the next session."

4. Cultural Festival/College Fest

Description:
Cultural festivals are lively events celebrating various art forms, including music, dance, drama,
and more. The tone is vibrant, fun, and inclusive, with a focus on encouraging student
participation.

Sample Script:

Anchor1:
"Good evening, everyone! A very warm welcome to the annual cultural festival of [College Name].
This is a night of talent, creativity, and celebration, where students come together to showcase
their artistic prowess."

Anchor2:
"Our lineup for tonight includes a mix of energetic dance performances, soul-stirring music, and

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breathtaking drama acts. Without further ado, let’s kick off the event with a dance performance
by [Dance Group Name]. Give them a huge round of applause!"

(After the performance)

Anchor1:
"That was fantastic! Up next, we have the much-awaited solo singing competition. Contestants,
please get ready."

(End of the event)

Anchor2:
"As we come to the end of this magical night, I would like to thank all the performers, organizers,
and our wonderful audience for making this event a grand success. Until next year, goodnight
and take care!"

5. Product Launch Event

Description:
A product launch is an event where a company introduces a new product to the market. The tone
is formal, with a focus on innovation and excitement about the product’s potential.

Sample Script:

Anchor:
"Good evening, innovators, entrepreneurs, and esteemed guests. We are thrilled to have you here
for the launch of [Product Name], the latest groundbreaking innovation from [Company Name].
Today marks a new chapter in [industry], and we are excited to show you how [Product Name]
is set to transform the way we [use the product]."

"To begin, please welcome our CEO, [CEO’s Name], who will share with us the journey behind
the development of [Product Name]."

(After the CEO's speech)

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"Thank you, [CEO’s Name], for that insightful introduction. Now, the moment we’ve all been
waiting for—the unveiling of [Product Name]! Please turn your attention to the stage for the
grand reveal."

(After the product reveal video)

"I’m sure you’re all eager to try it out for yourselves. Feel free to visit the demo stations around
the room, where you can experience [Product Name] firsthand."

6. Sports Event

Description:
A sports event celebrates athletic prowess and competitive spirit. The tone is energetic,
motivational, and often informal.

Sample Script:

Anchor:
"Good morning, everyone! Welcome to the annual Sports Day at [School/College Name]. Today
is all about speed, strength, and sportsmanship, where our athletes will compete for glory, pushing
their limits and giving their best!"

"To officially declare the Sports Day open, I would now like to invite our respected Principal,
[Principal’s Name], to say a few words."

(After the opening speech)

"Thank you, Sir/Ma’am! Our first event of the day is the 100-meter sprint. Athletes, please take
your positions at the starting line."

(After the event)

"That was an exhilarating race! Congratulations to our winner, [Athlete's Name], for securing
the first position."

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(End of the event)

"As we bring this action-packed day to a close, let’s hear a few closing remarks from our Chief
Guest, [Chief Guest's Name], who will also distribute the awards to our champions.

MODULE 3

Voice Modulation and Audience Engagement

Voice modulation and audience engagement are critical components in public speaking,
broadcasting, and anchoring. Effective modulation helps to convey emotions, maintain interest,
and ensure clarity, while engaging the audience builds a connection and makes the communication
more interactive and memorable.

1. Understanding the Fundamentals of Voice Modulation

Voice modulation refers to the deliberate variation of tone, pitch, volume, and speed of speech to
enhance the delivery and convey meaning effectively. Without modulation, speech can sound
monotonous and fail to engage the audience. The fundamental aspects of voice modulation
include:

• Pitch: This is the highness or lowness of your voice. Modulating pitch can convey
different emotions. For instance, a higher pitch can indicate excitement or urgency, while
a lower pitch may suggest seriousness or authority.
• Tone: Tone refers to the emotional quality of the voice. It's not just what is said but how
it's said that affects how the message is received. Tone can be warm, cold, friendly, or
aggressive, depending on the desired impact.
• Volume: Adjusting the loudness of your voice is important for emphasis. Raising your
volume on key points ensures they are not missed, while lowering it can draw attention or
signal a change in mood (e.g., making the audience lean in to listen).
• Speed (Pace): Speaking too quickly can overwhelm listeners, while speaking too slowly
might bore them. A good speaker adjusts their pace to suit the content. For example,
delivering key information at a slower pace allows for better comprehension, while
increasing pace during exciting segments can build suspense.

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 • Pausing: Strategic pauses can be powerful. Pausing before or after key points allows the
audience to absorb what was said or prepares them for an important piece of information.
Pauses also prevent "overloading" listeners.

Activity:

• Pitch Variation Exercise: Practice reading a simple sentence (e.g., "The meeting will start
at noon.") with different pitches. Try using a high pitch to express excitement, a neutral
pitch for regular conversation, and a lower pitch for authority. Record yourself and note
how the emotion or meaning changes with pitch.

2. Techniques for Effective Pronunciation and Articulation

Clear pronunciation and articulation ensure that your message is understood by your audience.
This is especially important in news reading and anchoring, where clarity and accuracy are critical.

• Pronunciation: The correct way of saying words. Mispronunciation can confuse or

mislead the audience. Regular practice of difficult or uncommon words, names, or jargon
is essential, especially when preparing for a specific broadcast.
• Articulation: This refers to how clearly sounds and words are spoken. Poor articulation,
such as mumbling or slurring, can result in unclear communication. Practicing articulation
exercises like tongue twisters can improve clarity.

Techniques for Pronunciation and Articulation:

• Vowel and Consonant Precision: Focus on articulating vowels clearly and consonants
sharply. For example, pronouncing the “t” in "butter" crisply or the “r” in "runner."
• Breath Control: Control over breathing ensures that your voice remains steady and
strong, even when speaking for long periods. Practice diaphragmatic breathing to improve
stamina and control.
• Tongue Twisters: Tongue twisters are excellent for practicing articulation. Examples
include: "She sells sea shells by the seashore" or "Red leather, yellow leather."

Activity:

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 • Daily Pronunciation Practice: Choose five difficult words or names related to your
content area, and practice saying them aloud every day. Focus on articulation and clarity.

3. Building Rapport with the Audience through Engaging Storytelling and Relatable
Commentary

Building rapport means establishing a connection with the audience so that they feel engaged and
invested in what you are saying. A speaker who can relate to their audience through storytelling
and commentary is more likely to keep their attention.

• Storytelling: Stories are powerful tools for engaging an audience. They humanize the
speaker and make abstract concepts more relatable. A well-told story can evoke emotions
and make the audience feel personally connected to the topic. Use stories relevant to the
subject matter to keep the audience interested.
• Relatable Commentary: Share personal experiences, analogies, or examples that the
audience can identify with. Relating content to their lives makes it more meaningful and
keeps them attentive.

Key Storytelling Techniques:

• Begin with a Hook: Start with a compelling or surprising statement to grab the audience’s
attention.
• Use Descriptive Language: Paint a vivid picture with your words, appealing to the
audience’s senses and emotions.
• Structure: Every story has a beginning, middle, and end. Make sure your story has a clear
message or lesson that ties into your overall speech.

Activity:

• Storytelling Workshop: Create a brief story related to a current event or topic you're
covering. Practice telling it to a friend or colleague, focusing on maintaining eye contact,
using voice modulation for emphasis, and pausing at key moments to let the story resonate.

4. Encouraging Listener Participation through Interactive Elements

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In a digital era, audience engagement often relies on interactive elements that make listeners feel
involved in the conversation. This could include live polls, Q&A sessions, or real-time
commentary.

• Polls: Polls can quickly gauge audience opinions or preferences on a topic. They make the
session interactive and can provide immediate feedback, which enhances engagement.
• Q&A Sessions: Allowing the audience to ask questions fosters direct interaction. It also
demonstrates that the speaker values the audience’s opinions, concerns, and thoughts.
• Social Media Integration: For virtual presentations, using social media platforms (e.g.,
Twitter, Instagram) for live comments, hashtags, or questions encourages interaction. This
also helps extend engagement beyond the immediate audience.

Handling Q&A Sessions:

• Encourage participation by asking open-ended questions.

• Keep answers concise but informative, and repeat the question for clarity.
• Acknowledge every question with gratitude, showing respect for audience involvement.

Activity:

• Interactive Poll Creation: For your next presentation, integrate a simple poll (e.g., "What
do you think the future of news broadcasting will look like?"). Use the results to fuel
discussion afterward.

5. Handling Audience Feedback, Questions, and Comments During Live Broadcasts

Handling real-time audience feedback is crucial, particularly during live broadcasts or social
media sessions. A skilled speaker can engage with feedback positively while maintaining control
of the conversation.

• Acknowledging Feedback: Always acknowledge comments and feedback respectfully,

even if they are critical. Listeners should feel heard and valued.
• Balancing Engagement and Time Management: During live sessions, it is important to
manage time effectively while responding to feedback. Not all questions can be answered,
so prioritize those that align with the discussion's flow.

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 • Handling Tough Questions: When facing difficult or confrontational questions, remain
composed. Take a moment to think before responding, and avoid being defensive. It’s also
acceptable to admit when you don’t know something, as long as you follow up later.

Techniques:

• Stay Neutral: Maintain neutrality, especially during contentious topics, to avoid

alienating segments of the audience.
• Use Feedback to Improve: Encourage audience feedback for future sessions.
Constructive criticism can help refine your speaking style and improve engagement in
future presentations.

Activity:

• Simulated Feedback Session: Organize a mock Q&A with peers, simulating real-time
feedback. Practice responding confidently and maintaining control of the conversation.

MODULE 4

Radio Program Hosting and Show Production

. Planning and Structuring Radio Shows for Various Formats

Definition of Planning in Radio

Planning a radio show involves creating a detailed framework or outline that includes the topics,
segments, music, or interviews to be broadcast during the show. Planning ensures that the content
is cohesive, runs smoothly, and engages the target audience effectively.

Structuring Radio Show

Structuring a radio show refers to organizing the planned content into a clear, logical sequence
that maintains listener interest and ensures proper flow between segments. Each format (music,
talk shows, news bulletins, interviews) has a unique structure to guide the listeners through the
broadcast.
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Music Programs

Music programs primarily revolve around playing music, with additional content such as artist
interviews, shout-outs, or discussions about musical trends.

• Planning: Involves curating a playlist based on the audience’s preferences, genre, or

theme of the day. Hosts must consider timing, keeping enough space for ad breaks, news
updates, or audience interaction (song requests or shout-outs).
• Structuring: A typical music show includes:
• Introduction: Welcoming the audience and introducing the theme or genre of the
day.
• Music Blocks: Playing several songs together with commentary in between.
• Interaction: Engaging with listeners through calls, social media messages, or live
shout-outs.
• Closing: Signing off with final remarks or upcoming program announcements.

Talk Shows

Talk shows feature discussions on various topics, often involving guest experts, celebrities, or
listener participation.

• Planning: Requires research on the discussion topic and guests. Hosts should prepare key
questions, background information, and contingency plans in case the conversation
deviates.
• Structuring:
• Introduction: Introducing the topic and guest(s).
• Main Discussion: Breaking the discussion into smaller segments, focusing on
different aspects of the topic.
• Audience Interaction: Taking live calls, questions, or comments from the
audience.
• Closing: Wrapping up the conversation, summarizing key points, and thanking the
guest(s).

News Bulletins

23
News bulletins are concise, factual reports covering important local, national, or international
events.

• Planning: News bulletins must be timely and well-researched, with information gathered
from reliable sources. The most critical news is prioritized at the start of the segment.
• Structuring:
• Headlines: The most important news stories summarized briefly.
• Detailed News: Expanding on the headlines with more details.
• Weather/Sports Update: Additional segments that can be interspersed throughout
the bulletin.
• Closing: Concluding with a final summary or outro.

Interviews

Radio interviews involve a host engaging with a guest to discuss a specific topic, event, or personal
experiences.

• Planning: Requires researching the guest and preparing questions that elicit engaging and
informative responses. The host should allow flexibility for organic conversation.
• Structuring:
• Introduction: Introducing the guest and providing background information.
• Interview Segment: Asking prepared questions while allowing room for follow-
up questions based on the guest's responses.
• Audience Interaction: If live, taking questions from the audience.
• Conclusion: Thanking the guest and summarizing key takeaways.

Activity:

• Design a Radio Show: Choose a format (music, talk show, news, or interview), plan the
content, and structure the show with clear timing and transitions between segments.

2. Hosting Skills, Including Improvisation, Interview Techniques, and On-Air Presence

Definition of Hosting
24
Hosting refers to the role of managing and directing a radio program, where the host (radio jockey)
presents content, interacts with guests or the audience, and ensures a smooth flow of the show.

Improvisation

Improvisation in radio is the ability to adapt to unexpected situations, such as technical difficulties
or a sudden change in the show’s schedule, while maintaining composure and continuing to
engage the audience.

• Techniques:
• Stay calm and collected during unexpected events.
• Have backup content or stories ready.
• Practice thinking on your feet and remaining spontaneous.

Interview Techniques

Interviewing on the radio involves asking thoughtful and engaging questions to elicit interesting
responses from guests while maintaining the flow of the conversation.

• Effective Techniques:
• Research: Know the background of the guest and the topic of the interview.
• Ask Open-Ended Questions: Avoid yes/no questions; instead, prompt the guest
to provide detailed responses.
• Active Listening: Engage with the guest's answers and ask follow-up questions.

On-Air Presence

On-air presence refers to how a host presents themselves while on the air—this includes their tone,
energy, personality, and how they connect with their audience.

• Tips for On-Air Presence:

• Confidence: Speak with assurance and clarity.
• Energy: Keep your energy appropriate to the show’s tone (e.g., upbeat for music
shows, measured for news).
• Vocal Quality: Maintain clarity and modulation in your voice to keep the audience
engaged.
25
Activity:

• Mock Interview Practice: Pair up with a colleague or friend to conduct a mock interview.
Focus on improvising when necessary and maintaining a natural conversation flow.

3. Producing Engaging Segments through Effective Storytelling and Content Curation

Storytelling in Radio

Storytelling is the art of creating compelling narratives that capture the audience’s attention. It is
often used in talk shows, interviews, and music programs to add context or entertainment to the
content.

• Key Elements of Effective Storytelling:

• Hook: Start with an attention-grabbing fact, question, or anecdote.
• Relatable Content: Make the story relatable to the audience’s experiences.
• Descriptive Language: Use vivid language to create imagery, as radio lacks
visuals.
• Build Suspense: Gradually build up to a climax, keeping the audience engaged.

Definition of Content Curation

Content curation refers to the process of selecting and organizing content (music, discussions,
interviews) that aligns with the radio show’s theme and the audience’s interests.

• Steps to Effective Content Curation:

• Understand Your Audience: Research your audience’s preferences and tailor
content accordingly.
• Balance Variety and Consistency: Mix up content to keep it fresh while
maintaining a consistent tone.
• Include Listener Feedback: Engage your audience through polls, questions, or
requests.

Activity:

26
• Storytelling Challenge: Choose a random event or topic, and craft a narrative around it.
Practice telling the story with strong hooks and descriptive language.

27
 BA ENGLISH LANGUAGE AND LITERATURE HONOURS
ENG1MN103
ENGLISH LANGUAGE TEACHING: FOUNDATIONS AND PRACTICE LEVEL 1
MINOR
SEMESTER 1
ACADEMIC LEVEL 100-199
CREDIT 4
UNIT 1
INTRODUCTION TO ELT

28
AN OVERVIEW OF ELT IN INDIA
The evolutionary path of English Language Teaching (ELT) in India formally begins with the
famous Minute by the Hon'ble T. B. Macaulay, dated the 2nd February 1835 where it was
proposed to the Governor General that English language would be the most useful for the native
Indians. ELT has been moving through a phase which facilitates British rule in India for the next
one hundred years. Then, there was a giant leap in the methodology of ELT based on demands of
the local and international society. It has reached a stage in which ELT caters to the diverse needs
of people. Along with this, a worldwide acceptance of the identity of Indian English was also
established. Language learning involves the acquisition of the four skills and the use of the
language for different prospects in a person’s life. Jim Cummins in 1984 coined two terms in
relation to the utility of language and substantiated the special role of language in dealing with
academics. Basic Interpersonal Communication Skills or BICS as the name signifies is the
language needed for interaction in social situations. Cognitive Academic Language Proficiency
or CALP involves learning needed for successful cognitive demands of academic learning.
Cummins has distinguished between the two components of language proficiency by stating that
“BICS refers to conversational fluency in a language while CALP refers to students’ ability to
understand and express, in both oral and written modes, concepts and ideas that are relevant to
success in school” (BICS and CALP, 65). English, due to its communicative purpose in India is
known as a link language. It is the language of the constitution. It is the communicative language
of the apex bodies of administration like the Supreme Court of India. It is the medium of
instruction in education especially, higher education. Scientific advancement and research
flourishes with this language. Business and industries cannot do without this language. English
plays a vital role in international affairs, trade, employment within and outside India. The
communication among different parts of India is made possible with English. The University
Education Commission in 1948 asserted the importance of English in high schools and
universities. This advantage of English was best availed by the educationalists and ELT experts
of the nation by introducing the textbooks of almost all subjects in the medium of English. This is
in fact a proposal of the Kothari Education Commission (1964-66) that English should be a library
language. English thus became the language of content learning, enabling learners to achieve the
subject and language through an ‘immersion’ process. This envisages a situation in which the
learners of different subjects and courses become accustomed to the rapid developments in their
field and the technical terms and language which turn out best through English. Although
curricular materials are ostensibly structured for instruction through an English medium, adhering
29
to a Content-Based Instruction (CBI) paradigm with immersion characteristics, the prevailing
practice often deviates significantly. The instructional pattern gravitates toward utilizing the
native language as the medium, with the educator assuming a predominantly translational role.
This discordance culminates in a dual deficit, detrimentally impacting both the acquisition of
subject matter expertise and the development of proficiency in the secondary linguistic medium.
This bifurcated inadequacy manifests as diminished competencies in the content domain and
attenuated linguistic dexterity in the target language, thus thwarting the cardinal objectives of the
instructional design.
English as a Second Language (ESL) is taught in the classrooms from different levels or grades
in India. There is no uniformity about the level of starting ESL. So, learners differ in their exposure
to English. There are schools where English is introduced from the lower primary classes. In some
schools this level is the upper primary or high schools. In some schools where mother tongue is
the medium of interaction, English continues to be taught in English periods only. In English
medium institutions, the entire curriculum is transacted in English. In the field of higher education,
most of the learning and evaluation is done in English which is the medium of instruction. There
also option is being given to transact in mother tongue. So, the learners who attend higher
education courses are a mixed group of individuals having different levels of English proficiency.
English Language Teaching in India
A) Immersion Programmes English had been accepted as an official language at the time of
independence. English then was considered as a language of utility and a language which is part
of the integration of India. This has paved way for using programmes similar to Immersion in
India for ELT. “Immersion programs aim to provide the quantity and quality of involvement in
the use of target language that ensure the development of a high level of proficiency” (Johnson
and Swain, xv) Immersion programmes began in Canada where subject content is taught in the
target language. Students get immersed in the one or two target languages. They are exposed to
the language in and outside the classrooms. Immersion programmes in the form of English
medium schools flourished throughout India and this continues in several parts of India in the
form of partial immersion and full immersion.
B) Communicative Language teaching (CLT) English language teaching can be broadly divided
as per its utility: English learning for basic communication aspects and English learning to meet
the academic prospects. The former one is done in English classes and deals with the basic
communication such as simple vocabulary and the basic language structures to satisfy the day-to-
day requirements. The language aspects of CLT are included in the school curriculum with
30
varying levels of practice which should help in the improvement of BICS. There is also learning
about language aspects which include teaching of grammatical items using prescriptive and
descriptive techniques. Learning literary texts is also included so as to improve communication
skills in English and to improve familiarity with a new world of literature. This learning of
language through literature also forms part of the teaching of English as a second language (TESL)
C) English for Academic purposes (EAP) A clear definition of EAP is given as “EAP refers to
language research and instruction that focuses on the specific communicative needs and practices
of particular groups in academic contexts” (Hyland & Hamp-Lyons, 2). English for academic
aspects is implied in Immersion programmes or the English medium schools in India. The text
books which are prepared in English are transacted in English or in English and the mother tongue.
The basic communication aspects are also intertwined in this method of learning and thus should
help in improving both BICS and CALP.
D) English for specific Purposes (ESP) English for Specific Purposes refer to learning English for
particular reasons like application in work place, using in academic aspects, equipping the learning
in specific professions. Hutchinson and Waters theorize, "ESP is an approach to language teaching
in which all decisions as to content and method are based on the learner's reason for learning" The
needs of learners and demands of the specific field are identified, using needs analysis, followed
by preparation of the English material based on the need. Thus, institutions and universities have
prepared text books like English for Commerce, English for Law and English for Science. The
specific aspects can also include certain language tasks and structures needed for particular
purposes.
E) Short-Term Programmes The present-day demand for acquiring skills for working abroad has
led to short term courses which prepare learners, for International English Language Testing
System (IELTS), Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL), Pearson Test of English (PTE)
and Occupational English Test (OET). These programmes use specific tasks for acquiring English
language skills and learners are supported to learn language in an integrated manner.
F) Teacher-Centred and Learner-Centred Leaning Language learning happening in classrooms is
primarily through interaction. Teachertalk and student-talk are essential for this. In India, most of
the language classes are teachercentred. Most of the talk is made by the teacher. This one-way
communication has a restrictive role in language learning. On the other hand, the teacher’s role
should be as a facilitator in interaction. Comprehensible input (Krashen) can be provided by the
teacher. Meaningful interaction and student-centred learning are also experimented in many parts
of the nation.
31
G) Content Based Language Teaching (CBLT) In CBLT, subject content that can be handled by
a language teacher in a language class is used. The subject content may not be complex subject
areas. In CBLT, additional materials and peripheral aspects may be dealt by the subject teacher.
Here, subject vocabulary, pronunciation of key words and language structures needed for subject
learning are dealt in language classes. Thus, language teachers collaborate with content learning.
This has been done in in the form of ESP in universities and in technical education institutions.
“English Communication” prepared by Technical Teachers’ Training Institute (Southern Region)
Madras and published by Oxford University Press is an example. It includes chapters like
‘Concrete’ and ‘A Lab Report’.
H) Content and Language Integrated Learning (CLIL) Content and Language integrated Learning
(CLIL) is a “dual-focused educational approach in which an additional language is used for the
learning and teaching of both content and language” (Coyle et.al 1). It aims mat developing both
language and content. So, CLIL requires a collaboration of subject and language teachers. It is a
learner-centred approach. Hence learners “make new personal meanings in another language”
(Dale and Tanner, 12). This is revolutionary in the Indian context, but it will help learners acquire
English (L2) in meaningful contexts, without using additional time for that purpose.
ELT has a varied structure in India based on its demands. It has grown much above the traditional
methods of teaching grammar or some language structures. It has been growing in a sense of
competing with international standards. While complying with the Indianness in English, TESL
has given learners myriad opportunities of learning English. In fact, all the experiments in
language teaching happening around the world gets reflected in this sub-continent. This is in
addition to ELT researches in local contexts happening in different parts of India.
Reference: - English Language Teaching in India: An Overview by Arun George (This material
is only for reference and not to be published anywhere)

32
Triangulation of Needs Analysis in English for Tourism Purposes - Scientific Figure on
ResearchGate. Available from: https://www.researchgate.net/figure/Tree-diagram-ELT-and-
assumptions-about-the-place-of-ETPs-within-ESP_fig1_287928942 [accessed 16 Oct 2024]
Definition of ELT: English Language Teaching (ELT) refers to the practice of teaching the
English language to non-native speakers. It encompasses various methodologies, approaches, and
techniques used to facilitate language acquisition and proficiency.
Key Components of ELT:
1. Methodologies:
o Communicative Language Teaching (CLT): Focuses on interaction and
practical use of language in real-life contexts.
o Task-Based Language Teaching (TBLT): Centers around completing
meaningful tasks that require language use.
o Grammar-Translation Method: Emphasizes learning grammar rules and
vocabulary through translation exercises.
o Direct Method: Involves teaching through immersion, using only the target
language.
2. Assessment and Evaluation: Techniques to measure learners’ progress, such as formative
assessments, standardized tests, and self-assessments.
33
Trends in ELT:
1. Technology Integration: Use of digital tools and online platforms for language learning
(e.g., apps, virtual classrooms).
2. Focus on Soft Skills: Emphasizing communication, critical thinking, and collaboration
alongside language skills.
3. Inclusion of Global Englishes: Recognizing and valuing the various forms of English
spoken worldwide, including regional dialects.
Conclusion: ELT is a dynamic field that adapts to the changing demands of global communication
and education. Understanding its principles, methodologies, and challenges is essential for
effective language instruction and learner success.

PRINCIPLES OF ELT
The principles of English language teaching are guidelines that inform effective teaching
practices. Some key principles include learner-centeredness, meaningful interaction,
communicative approach, language immersion and scaffolding. These principles emphasize
creating an engaging and supportive learning environment, promoting active participation and
communication, and tailoring instruction to meet learners' needs.
Learner-Centeredness
1. Engage students in the learning process. On traditional teaching in most classes’ teachers are
working much harder than students. Students don’t develop sophisticated learning skills without
the chance to practice and in most classrooms the teacher gets far more practice than the students.
With Learner-Centered Teaching students have the opportunity to implement a real task and
acquire 21st century skills and key competences through the process.
2. Learner-centered teaching includes explicit skill instruction, students learn how to think, solve
problems, decision making, team work, evaluate evidence, analyze arguments, generate
hypotheses—all those learning skills essential to mastering material in the discipline. They do not
assume that students pick up these skills on their own, automatically. A few students do, but not
all, research shows that learning skills develop faster if they are taught explicitly along with the
content.
3. Learner-centered teaching encourages students to reflect on what they are learning and how
they are learning it. Learner-centered teachers talk about learning. In conversations, students write
(in the diary) about what they have learned, what were their difficulties and strengths. In class
they may talk about their own learning and do pair assessment. They challenge student
34
assumptions about learning and encourage them to accept responsibility for decisions they make
about learning. Learner centered teaching includes assignment components in which students
reflect, analyze and critique what they are learning and how they are learning it. The goal is to
make students aware of themselves as learners and to make learning skills something students
want to develop.
4. Learner-centered teaching Learner-centered teaching includes explicit skill instruction, students
learn how to think, solve problems, decision making, team work, evaluate evidence, analyze
arguments, generate hypotheses—all those learning skills essential to mastering material in the
discipline. They do not assume that students pick up these skills on their own, automatically. A
few students do, but not all, research shows that learning skills develop faster if they are taught
explicitly along with the content.
5. Learner-centered teaching encourages collaboration Learner-centered teaching makes possible
students can learn from and with others. The teacher has the expertise and an obligation to share
it, but teachers can learn from students as well. Learner-centered teachers work to develop
structures that promote shared commitments to learning. They see learning individually and
collectively as the most important goal of any educational experience.
Advantages: 1. Students develop learning and other skills and gain meaningful knowledge that
will help them throughout life.
2. It can help to build social skills and self-esteem.
3. And also, students gain more emotional and cognitive support from their peers.
4. The relationship between rights and responsibilities islearned.
5. Students discover that learning is interesting and fun.
6. Teachers have less traditional work to do.
7. Students are more attentive and willing to participate in the class.
8. Complaints about irrelevance and unfairness decrease.
9. Reports and papers generated by students increase a teacher's collection of useful information.
10. The pupil has more of an active role to play in their learning.

Reference: Research Journal of English Language and Literature (RJELAL

Meaningful Interaction
Students do benefit from activities that focus on the form (grammar, sentence structure,
pronunciation). However, language learners also need the opportunity to practice the language in
a spontaneous way as people do in regular conversation. This is, precisely, what meaningful
35
interaction is about. In other words, meaningful interaction is the communication among language
learners that focuses on the message they want to convey instead of the form. Back in 1988, an
American linguist named Stephen Krashen published his theory of meaningful interaction as it
relates to second language acquisition. Krashen considers that language acquisition occurs more
naturally if students have the opportunity to practice the language naturally rather than with
constant focus on grammar or memorized pattern.
Meaningful interaction in ELT refers to the practice of engaging learners in authentic
communication that reflects real-life situations and contexts. This principle emphasizes the
importance of using language not just for practice but for genuine exchange of ideas and
experiences.
Key Aspects of Meaningful Interaction:
1. Real-Life Contexts:
o Activities and discussions should relate to situations learners are likely to
encounter outside the classroom, such as socializing, traveling, or working.
2. Purposeful Communication:
o Learners should engage in tasks that have a clear purpose, such as solving a
problem, sharing opinions, or collaborating on a project, which encourages them
to use language naturally.
3. Collaborative Learning:
o Encouraging group work and peer interactions fosters an environment where
students learn from each other, practice language skills, and build confidence.
4. Focus on Meaning Over Form:
o Prioritizing the conveyance of meaning rather than perfect grammatical accuracy
helps learners feel comfortable expressing themselves and taking risks in
communication.
5. Encouragement of Authentic Materials:
o Using real-world materials (e.g., news articles, podcasts, videos) in lessons
promotes relevant interactions and exposes students to various language registers
and accents.
1. Communicative Approach
CLT is generally regarded as an approach, rather than a method, that "aims to
make communicative competence the goal of language teaching and develop procedures for
the teaching of the four language skills that acknowledge the interdependence of language
36
and communication" (Richards & Rodgers, 2001, p. 155). This approach, which places a
primary focus on language use, fluency development, learner-centeredness, and the ability to
communicate in a variety of settings, is derived from "a multidisciplinary perspective"
including linguistics, psychology, philosophy, sociology, and education (Savignon, 1991, p.
265). It concerns how learners learn a language, the roles of teachers and learners in the
classroom, and the classroom activities that help facilitate learning (Richards, 2005). In other
words, CLT is a learner-centred approach where teachers are no longer regarded as
knowledge givers and learners not knowledge receivers, and the prime focus or ultimate goal
of this communicative approach is to develop learners' communicative competence through a
variety of classroom tasks and activities.
It is imperative to distinguish the terms competence and performance introduced by Chomsky
(1965). According to Chomsky competence refers to "the speaker-hearer's knowledge of the
language" and performance is
"the actual use of language in concrete situations" (1965, p. 4). In other words, competence is
the knowledge of grammar or the linguistic system that a speaker possesses while
performance is the actual utterance or speech production which reflects a speaker's
competence. However, viewing competence solely as the knowledge of grammar fails to take
into account other aspects of language, particularly the knowledge of rules of language use,
which contribute to the appropriateness of utterances.
According to Richards (2005), the following aspects of language knowledge can be observed
in communicative competence:
1. Knowing how to use language for a range of different purposes and functions
2. Knowing how to vary our use of language according to the setting and the
participants (e.g., knowing when to use formal and informal speech or when to use
language appropriately for written as opposed to spoken communication)
3. Knowing how to produce and understand different types of texts (e.g., narratives,
reports, interviews, conversations)
4. Knowing how to maintain communication despite having limitations in one’s
language knowledge (e.g., through using different kinds of communication
strategies
Nunan (1991) comes up with five essential features which
characterize the communicative approach as follows.
1. An emphasis on learning to communicate through interaction in the target language
37
2. The introduction of authentic texts into the learning situation
3. The provision of opportunities for learners to focus, not only on language, but also
on the learning process itself
4. An enhancement of the learner’s own personal experiences as important
contributing elements to classroom learning
5. An attempt to link classroom language learning with language activation outside
the classroom. Borrowed from Kimkong Heng, MA (TESOL)
2. Language immersion involves creating an environment where English is the primary
language of instruction and communication. Language immersion is a process that goes
beyond learning a language. It is an educational approach that involves complete
immersion, surrounded by native speakers and everyday situations in which the target
language is the protagonist. Language immersion involves intensive and continuous
exposure to a foreign language, making it the main tool in all interactions, from the
simplest to the most complex. It is used not only in conventional classroom learning, but
also in practical use in everyday life situations, which facilitates a deeper and more natural
understanding of the language.
To promote language immersion, you can:
Use English as the main language of instruction, both in classroom activities and daily
interactions.
Encourage students to communicate in English with their peers and provide opportunities
for authentic language use.
Incorporate real-life materials, such as authentic texts, videos, and audio recordings, to
expose students to natural English language use.
Create a language-rich environment with English language displays, posters, and
resources.
3. SCAFFOLDING
Scaffolding refers to the preparation for an activity provided by the teacher/materials because,
without it, learners might find the activity too difficult to do. Although initially coined as a term
by Bruner, and related to how an adult might talk to a child in order to help them with an activity,
it now tends to be used in EFL for any preparatory activity done in the classroom. So, some
examples of scaffolding for a speaking activity might be :

38
The teacher feeds in vocabulary that s/he predicts the students will need in the activity, and checks
they understand and can pronounce it.
S/he gives the students the chance to plan what they want to say silently, thinking it through in
their minds
S/he gives them the chance to ask for any vocabulary they think they will need in the activity
S/he lets them listen to an example of the activity as a model. Eg if it is an anecdote telling activity
she tells an anecdote of her own on the topic.
Here are some benefits of scaffolded instruction:
● Students experience a supportive learning environment
● Students feel free to ask questions, provide feedback, and support their peers
● Teachers become facilitators of knowledge rather than content “experts”
● Students take a more active role in learning
● Students are able to take ownership of the learning and their classroom as a community of
learners

LANGUAGE TEACHING METHODOLOGIES

Grammar Translation Method: Grammar Translation Method is a method of learning any
foreign language by the practice of translating or converting the sentences of the native language
into the target language or vice versa. In GTM classes, students learn grammar rules of the foreign
language and try to apply those rules to the native language to convert it into the foreign one.
Advanced classes of GTM enable students to convert the whole paragraph even, word to word,
and to advance their intellectual development. Basically, learning any foreign languages and
mental discipline and Language translation has a goal of enabling the students to learn the foreign
literature in its original form.
Characteristics of GTM:-
● It helps to learn a foreign language and its correct sentence structure.
● Allows the students to be able to read and write a new language.
● To enable students to use interchangeable words and phrases.
● They get to learn new vocabulary and new words.
● It does not enable students’ skills in listening and speaking of foreign language.
● GTM classes are primarily conducted in the mother tongue.
● Focus on pronunciation and communication aspects is lesser than reading and writing.
The procedure of Grammar Translate Method –
39
 1. In the first step, a paragraph is read by a teacher, and some difficult words are marked out
of it.
2. Secondly, these marked words are converted into the native language of students.
3. Then, a paragraph is read once again and is translated by a teacher, line by line.
4. Then all the Grammatical items are taught about to students.
5. Students can also be asked to convert the passage of their native language into a foreign
language to make it more clear to them.
Merits of Grammar Translation Method
● It makes the concept more clear and new words, phrases, and vocabulary is introduced.
● Learning gets easy as the conduction is done in the native language.
● It promotes the skills of reading and writing effectively.
● For class conduction, very less teacher material aid is needed and also, this method can be
taught in overcrowded classes.
● Students feel comfortable as the mother tongue is used to teach any foreign language and
they are free to ask the questions in between.

Demerits of Grammar Translation Method

● One of the major disadvantages of GTM is that it restricts the skills of speaking and
listening to a foreign language.
● The natural order of learning any language is listening, speaking, reading, and writing.
But, in GTM, reading is facilitated first.
● Proper conversational skills in a foreign language still remain a hurdle.
● GTM focuses on formal and bookish grammar rules. So, it does not enhance proper
learning of the foreign language.
● It takes time to translate each and every word under GTM as students are well versed in
their mother tongue and they need time to think to Translate.

DIRECT METHOD
The Direct Method, also known as the Natural Method, emphasizes teaching a language through
immersion and direct communication, mirroring the way a child learns their first language. The
approach aims to create an environment that replicates real-life language usage, encouraging
learners to think, communicate, and respond directly in the target language.

40
It emerged in the 1890s, principally in response to the perceived inability of the Grammar-
Translation Method to teach learners to communicate fluently. Critics of the Grammar-Translation
Method argued that its focus on rules, translation and rote memorization taught learners about the
target language but not how to speak it. As a result, the Direct Method shifts the focus onto
developing more active communication skills.
Features of Direct Method
There are a number of key features that characterize lessons taught using the Direct Method.
● Language is learned inductively as grammar isn’t explicitly taught in the Direct Method.
The teacher provides a wealth of exercises and materials to help students deduce / find the
rules – grammar and vocabulary are acquired through repeated exposure and practice.
● The Direct Method deliberately prioritizes listening and speaking skills. This is in stark
contrast to the grammar-translation method where, because of the focus on linguistic
structures, reading and writing skills are primarily developed.
● Language is seen as a route to communication and students will therefore do a lot of
talking, gesturing, acting and interacting in Direct Method lessons. No matter how badly
they speak, the educator constantly encourages language production. Over time,
the accuracy and fluency of students’ language is significantly improved.
● Educators employing the Direct Method aim to minimise the use of the learners’ native
language during lessons. This encourages learners to think directly in the target language,
eliminating the need for translation.
● Vocabulary and grammar are introduced in context, rather than through isolated lists or
rules. This approach helps learners understand how words are used and how sentences are
formed in everyday situations.
● Classroom activities focus on interactive tasks such as role-playing, conversations, and
situational exercises. Learners actively participate in scenarios that reflect real-world
experiences, which enhances their language skills.
Advantages and disadvantages of the Direct Method
This approach prioritizes authentic fluency by immersing learners in a language-rich environment,
where oral communication is key.
The Direct Method enhances listening skills through continuous exposure to spoken language.
Through interactive tasks such as role-playing, peer conversations and situational exercises,
students apply their language skills in a range of practical contexts

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The Direct Method’s adaptability is another advantage worth highlighting. It can be tailored to
suit learners of various ages and proficiency levels.
Critics argue that the Direct Method’s focus on communication can lead to the neglect of explicit
grammar instruction. While contextual learning is certainly beneficial, a basic understanding of
grammar rules can aid learners to construct more complex sentences. It is also worth bearing in
mind that traditional testing techniques, such as multiple-choice exams, may not be particularly
effective when assessing students who have been wholly schooled through the Direct Method.
AUDIO LINGUAL METHOD
The Audio-Lingual method, which was proposed by American linguists in 1950s, was developed
from the principle that “a language is first of all a system of sounds for social communication;
writing is a secondary derivative system for the recording of spoken language” (Carroll, p.1963).
Thus, the purpose of the Audio-Lingual method is to use the target language communicatively.
According to this method, speech is given priority in foreign language teaching. The
AudioLingual method teaches language through dialogues that focus on habit formation of
students. Larsen-Freeman states that students will achieve communicative competence by forming
new habits in the target language and overcoming the old habits of their native language (2000,
p.45). The Audio-Lingual method considered language simply as form of behavior to be learned
through the formation of correct speech habits (Thornbury 2000, p.21).
The objective of the audiolingual method is accurate pronunciation and grammar, the ability to
respond quickly and accurately in speech situations, and knowledge of sufficient vocabulary to
use with grammar patterns. Particular emphasis was laid on mastering the building blocks of
language and learning the rules for combining them. It was believed that learning structure, or
grammar was the starting point for the student. Here are some characteristics of the method:
● Language learning is habit formation.
● Mistakes are bad and should be avoided, as they are considered bad habits.
● Language skills are learned more effectively if they are presented orally first, then in
written form.
● Analogy is a better foundation for language learning than analysis.
● The meanings of words can be learned only in a linguistic and cultural context
Advantages
● It aims at developing listening and speaking skills which is a step away from the Grammar
translation method
● The use of visual aids has proven its effectiveness in vocabulary teaching.
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Disadvantages
● The method is based on false assumptions about language. The study of language doesn’t
amount to studying the “parole”, the observable data. Mastering a language relies on
acquiring the rules underlying language performance. That is the linguistic,
sociolinguistic, and discourse competencies.
● The behaviorist approach to learning is now discredited. Many scholars have proven its
weakness. Noam Chomsky ( “Chomsky, Noam (1959). “A Review of B. F. Skinner’s
Verbal Behavior”) has written a strong criticism of the principles of the theory.

COMMUNICATIVE LANGUAGE TEACHING (CLT)

The Communicative Language Teaching is defined as an approach of teaching a second or a
foreign language that focuses on learners’ interaction whether as the means or the ultimate goal
of learning a target language. Interaction here means an activity in which two or more parties
affect upon one another. CLT refers to communicative approach to the teaching a second or a
foreign language as well. Doubtlessly, it is believed as the most effective approach focuses on the
communicative competence of the learners in many countries (Kaisheng, 2007).
Communicative Language Teaching (CLT) in English Language Teaching (ELT) is an
instructional approach that prioritizes the ability to communicate effectively and meaningfully in
English. Here are some defining features:
1. Interaction as a Central Component: CLT emphasizes interaction among students as a
key method of language learning. Activities often include pair work, group discussions,
and role plays that simulate real-life situations.
2. Focus on Meaning: The primary goal is for learners to convey and understand messages
rather than just focus on grammatical accuracy. This means prioritizing fluency and
comprehension over rote learning of language rules.
3. Use of Authentic Materials: Teaching materials often include real-world texts, audio, and
video that reflect everyday language use, helping students engage with the language as it
is used in context.
4. Functional Language Skills: Lessons are designed around functions of language—such
as requesting, apologizing, and giving advice—helping students learn how to use language
in practical scenarios.

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 5. Learner-Centered Approach: CLT encourages students to take an active role in their
learning, allowing for personalized learning experiences that cater to their interests and
needs.
6. Error Correction: Errors are viewed as a natural part of the learning process, with a focus
on communication rather than perfect accuracy. This fosters a supportive environment
where students feel comfortable taking risks.
7. Cultural Context: CLT integrates cultural aspects of language use, helping students
understand the social contexts in which language operates.
Advantages
Communicative approach is much more pupil-orientated, because it is based on pupils’
needs and interests.
Communicative approach seeks to personalise and localise language and adapt it to
interests of pupils. Meaningful language is always more easily retained by learners.
Seeks to use authentic resources. And that is more interesting and motivating for children.
Children acquire grammar rules as a necessity to speak so is more proficient and efficient.
Disadvantages
It pays insufficient attention to the context in which teaching and learning take place
The Communicative Approach often seems to be interpreted as: “if the teacher understands
the student, we have good communication” but native speakers of the target language can
have great difficulty understanding students.
Another disadvantage is that the CLT approach focuses on fluency but not accuracy. The
approach does not focus on error reduction but instead creates a situation where learners
are left using their own devices to solve their communication problems.

UNIT 2 – ICT TOOLS FOR ENGLISH LANGUAGE TEACHING

7.E-Creation Tools

These tools allow teachers and students to create interactive and engaging learning materials.

● Wordwall: A tool that helps create customizable activities such as quizzes, crosswords,
word searches, and more. It’s easy to use and adaptable to different teaching contexts.

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 ● Puzzlemaker: An online tool for creating puzzles like word searches, crosswords, and
cryptograms, useful for vocabulary and language practice.
● Spiderscribe: A mind-mapping tool that helps organize and visualize thoughts, making it
a useful aid for brainstorming and writing.
● Kahoot: A game-based learning platform that allows teachers to create quizzes and
interactive activities. It fosters engagement through competition and instant feedback.
● Diigo (Personal Digital Library): A social bookmarking tool that allows users to save,
annotate, and share resources, creating a personalized digital library of useful links and
references for language teaching.

8. Mobile Apps and Games

Mobile apps and games are increasingly popular in language learning, providing interactive ways
to practice language skills.

● Enguru: A language-learning app focused on English, especially for non-native speakers.

It offers live classes and self-paced lessons in grammar, vocabulary, and communication.
● CoddyCross: A crossword puzzle app that helps learners improve vocabulary by solving
word puzzles.
● Quizlet: A study tool that allows users to create digital flashcards, quizzes, and games. It's
useful for memorizing vocabulary and reinforcing grammar concepts.

9. Online Teaching-Learning Platforms

These platforms facilitate online education, enabling teachers to manage and deliver content,
interact with students, and assess learning.

● Edmodo: A platform that connects teachers, students, and parents. It’s similar to a social
network for educational purposes where teachers can post assignments, quizzes, and
communicate with students.
● Google Classroom: A widely used platform where teachers can create, distribute, and
grade assignments. It integrates with other Google tools like Docs, Sheets, and Slides for
collaborative learning.

10. LSRW Tools

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LSRW (Listening, Speaking, Reading, Writing) tools enhance the core skills in language learning
through digital means.

● Audio/Video Podcasts: Teachers can use podcasts for listening comprehension practice.
Learners can listen to authentic language, accents, and intonation from native speakers.
● YouTube Channels: Many educational YouTube channels provide tutorials on grammar,
vocabulary, pronunciation, and more. Teachers can curate playlists for specific language-
learning purposes.
● Blogs: Blogging helps improve writing skills. Teachers can encourage students to maintain
their own blogs as a platform for written expression and creativity.
● Boards (e.g., Padlet): Digital boards are a way for students to collaboratively share ideas,
texts, images, and links. They are useful for interactive discussions and group projects.
● Penzu: A private online journal that students can use for writing practice. It can help them
improve writing fluency and maintain regular writing habits.
● E-books: Digital books offer easy access to a wide variety of reading materials that cater
to different levels of proficiency. They often include interactive features like audio, video,
and built-in dictionaries.
●

11. Tools for Digital Storytelling

Digital storytelling tools allow learners to combine writing, images, and audio to create engaging
stories, enhancing both language skills and creativity.

● Storybird: A digital storytelling tool that helps students write stories by providing them
with illustrations to inspire their writing. It’s a great way to practice creative writing and
narrative skills.
● Book Creator: An app that lets students create their own digital books, adding text,
images, audio, and video. It promotes creativity while improving writing and storytelling
skills.

UNIT 3- TASK BASED LANGUAGE TEACHING

INTRODUCTION TO TASK BASED LANGUAGE TEACHING

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Task-based Language Teaching alludes to a communicative approach which is grounded on the
usage of tasks (real-life and pedagogical) as a central element for language instruction. Being able
to communicate effectively on a variety of real-life situations so as to share specific types of
information in different linguistic and cultural backgrounds constitutes a pivotal goal when
becoming a competent user of the language (Juan-Garau & Jacob, 2015). Now, research indicates
that Task-based Language Teaching, hereafter referred to as TBLT, is a relevant approach within
Communicative Language Teaching (Bygate, 2016; Cordoba, 2016; Willis, 1996). Thus, TBLT
has several implications within language classrooms. Likewise, real-life tasks bring authenticity
to language classrooms as students use the language in a pragmatic way.
A Task-based approach is one where tasks are used as the main key element of planning and
instruction in language teaching. Nunan (as cited in Richards and Rodgers, 2001) provides the
following definition. the communicative task [is] a piece of classroom work which involves
learners in comprehending, manipulating, producing or interacting in the target language while
their attention is primarily focused on meaning rather than form. The task should also have a sense
of completeness, being able to stand alone as a communicative act in its own right. (p.224) TBLT
promotes the use of a task as the most important unit. According to Ellis (2009), a task must match
the following criteria to be considered one.
∙ The main focus is meaning.
∙ A ‘gap’ has to be present whether it is to express opinions, infer meaning or convey information.
∙ Learners’ own knowledge is the essential key to develop the activity.
∙ The use of language is not an end rather than a mean.
Fotos and Ellis (1991) indicate that task-based instruction provides space for students to acquire
the language through tasks. Long (as cited in Fotos and Ellis, 1991) states there are four general
elements related to the effectiveness of a task.
More negotiation of meaning happens in two-way tasks.
∙ Planned tasks (a speech) promotes more negotiation of meaning than unplanned tasks.
∙ A task involving a clear resolution provides more negotiation than an open-ended task.
∙ Reaching one solution rather than having a different opinion on how to solve a situation will
definitely provide more negotiation of meaning.
In his seminal book, Nunan (2004:1) suggests six principles for TBL, which constitute the basic
tenets of the approach:
1. The content is chosen based on the learners’ needs.
2. Communication is done through using the target language for interaction.
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 3. Authentic materials are included in learning.
4. Giving learners opportunities to focus on what and how they learn.
5. Valuing learners’ experiences as significant factors in learning.
6. Connecting language learning in classrooms with the authentic everyday use of language.

STAGES OF A TBL LESSON

Typically, a TBL lesson has three main phases: a) pre-task; b) task cycle; c) language focus, as
illustrated by Willis (1996:38).
1) Pre-task:
In this phase, learners are introduced to the topic of the target task. The teacher may need to pre-
teach some examples of important phrases learners will need to use when performing the task.
Additionally, the teacher will make sure that he / she facilitates instructions so that student
understand what they need to do. A key step is that learners hear or watch a similar task as a model
for them to follow; for example, if the task is to give a presentation about tourist attractions in
their countries, they watch or listen to a presentation about the same topic.
2) Task cycle:
The task cycle is probably the most productive phase which gives the opportunity for learners to
be autonomous and creative. Content and meaning are the sole focus of this phase; learners are
not provided language work. The task cycle consists of three steps:
First, they do the task by brainstorming ideas and organizing their thoughts in pairs or groups,
meanwhile, the teacher monitors from a distance. At this stage, learners’ communication skills are
supposed to develop. Going back to the example task of giving a presentation, students at this
stage should be deciding on the content, the outline, the pictures of attractions, etc.
Second, students will plan how they are going to report to the rest of the class; e.g., plan how they
will deliver the presentation; who will start, who will finish, timings of each students, etc. The
teacher’s role here is a ‘language advisor’ who helps students with, for instance, alternative
vocabulary to make meanings clearer; grammatical structures which illustrate ideas more
meaningfully.
Third, students report their production to colleagues normally orally but can also be in a written
form. Apparently, students, who were selected beforehand, report to the rest of the class; they, for
example, give time-bound presentations group by group. The role of the teacher is a chairperson
who organises the procedures and responds to the content of the presentations.
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3) Language focus:
Unlike the PPP (Presentation, Practice, Production) approach in which the language focus comes
at the start, TBL concludes with it. It gives learners the opportunity to investigate language they
used during the task cycle. Useful language which emerges from the task is analysed and
discussed so that students are able to notice it when they encounter the same task in real-life. In
order to consolidate such language, learners are given practice activities to help them process
useful functional phrases needed for the successful achievement of the task when they do it again
either inside the classroom or outside it.
Advantages and Disadvantages
There are a number of issues which some ELT practitioners perceive about Task-based Learning.
Willis and Willis (2007:200) illustrated ten perceived obstacles; they relate mainly to timing,
learners, motivation, administration and classroom management. They state that:
● Most books do not use TBL, so there will be a need to find timing to design tasks.
● Lack of timing to integrate TBL into existing syllabi.
● Teacher may be confused about how to teach TBL if they are not used to it.
● Some learners ask for concrete outcomes such as grammatical rules.
● Learners may not be motivated enough to take TBL seriously.
● Given that the approach uses ‘real’ tasks, it is not suitable for low-level students.
● Overwhelming use of L2 for learners during the different phases of TBL.
● Student feel no sense of progress; the outcomes of learning are not clear.
● Challenging for teachers (and learners) because there is no control over language.
● There is a gap between TBL and existing exam systems- exams are not based on tasks.
Although the abovementioned points are feasible, there are ways to overcome them.
Consequently, advantages can be derived from such perceived disadvantages. The following are
examples of the numerous advantages of Task-based learning:
● It focuses on meaning and production; this lets off steam as it does not confine students to
use pre-taught language.
● Learners make efforts to understand each other and to get their messages across, which
enables students to acquire language easily (Larsen-Freeman, 2000:144).
● Attention is given to the language needed for genuine communication, not to learn
language items simply because they exist in language (Nunan, 2004:7).
● TBL facilitates collaboration, teamwork, negotiation and other skills needed for effective
communication.
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 ● Learners’ experiences are valued, the teacher is not the source of knowledge but rather a
facilitator. So, there is a principle of sharing.
● It boosts creativity due to the flexibility of tasks. Although students carry out tasks of the
same theme, each individual / group create their own unique tasks.
TYPES OF TASKS IN TASK BASED LANGUAGE TEACHING
● Teachers are free to choose any activity close to the life of students: - real world,
pedagogical and language focused tasks.
For example: Listing, Ordering & Sorting (sequencing, ranking, classifying), Matching,
Comparing, Problem solving, Sharing personal experiences, Projects and creative tasks.

The TBL formula includes the following stages:

Pre-task
The teacher introduces the topic and gives students clear instructions and guidelines on what they
will be doing during the three-part task cycle (below). This phase will give students a clear
understanding of what will be expected of them and include any important knowledge or details
they need to know.
This is also a good time to lead into the task by brainstorming or asking questions about the topic.
Teachers can also get students ready for the task by presenting an example of the task or
introducing a picture, audio, or video which will be useful in completing the task.
Task
Students get ready to do the task. Students are given what they need to complete the task (handouts
and written instructions) and are assigned to work in pairs or small groups while the teacher
monitors and offers encouragement when necessary. The teacher’s role is typically limited to one
of a coach, guide, and facilitator.
Plan
Students work on the task in pairs or small groups and prepare to report or present their results or
product. They make important decisions about their presentation and assign each person in the
group with a part of the task to present, so everyone takes responsibility during the report stage.
The group rehearses its presentation. The teacher walks around, helps if needed, and takes notes
on anything that needs to be addressed after the presentations.
Report/Present
Students present their findings to the class in the form of a presentation. The rest of the class
listens to the reports and writes down feedback which will be given to the presenters after all
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reports have been heard. The class can also ask questions or provide some quick oral feedback
after each presentation. The teacher also gives feedback on the content as well. Students vote on
the best presentation, report, or product.
Feedback
After presenting their completed task, others in the class can offer constructive feedback.
Pre-task activities
Pre-task activities play a crucial role in Task-Based Language Teaching (TBLT) by setting the
stage for effective learning and maximizing student engagement. Here are several key reasons
highlighting their importance:
1. Contextualization
Pre-task activities help students understand the context of the upcoming task. By introducing
relevant topics, vocabulary, and background information, learners can approach the task with
greater confidence and comprehension.
2. Activation of Prior Knowledge
These activities can activate students' existing knowledge and experiences related to the task topic.
This not only makes the task more relatable but also encourages students to draw on their own
ideas and opinions during the task.
3. Vocabulary and Language Preparation
Pre-task activities can focus on teaching specific vocabulary, phrases, and structures that will be
useful in the main task. This preparation allows students to feel more equipped to express their
thoughts and ideas.
4. Modeling and Demonstration
Teachers can use pre-task activities to model language use and communication strategies.
Demonstrating how to approach the task can provide valuable guidance and set clear expectations.
5. Building Confidence
By providing a low-stakes environment for practice, pre-task activities help reduce anxiety.
Students can familiarize themselves with the language and concepts before engaging in the more
demanding task.
6. Encouraging Interaction
These activities often involve pair or group work, promoting interaction among students. This
social aspect can enhance motivation and create a sense of community in the classroom.
7. Setting Goals and Objectives

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Pre-task activities allow students to understand the purpose and objectives of the task. Clear goals
help focus their efforts and make the learning experience more meaningful.
8. Creating Interest and Engagement
Engaging activities that pique students' interest can boost motivation and enthusiasm for the
upcoming task. This emotional engagement can lead to a more invested and active learning
experience.
Incorporating effective pre-task activities is essential for optimizing the learning experience in
TBLT. By preparing students linguistically, cognitively, and emotionally, these activities facilitate
smoother transitions into the main tasks, ultimately leading to better language acquisition and
communication skills.
Opinion Exchange Tasks and Problem - Solving tasks
In Task-Based Language Teaching (TBLT), opinion exchange tasks and problem-solving tasks
serve distinct but complementary roles in promoting language acquisition and practical
communication skills. Here's a breakdown of both:
Opinion Exchange Tasks
Definition: These tasks involve students sharing personal views, preferences, or experiences on a
given topic.
Purpose:
● Encourage fluency and spontaneity in speaking.
● Foster critical thinking by allowing students to consider multiple perspectives.
● Develop vocabulary related to expressing opinions and emotions.
Examples:
● Discussing favorite books or movies and explaining why.
● Debating a controversial issue, like climate change or social media use.
● Sharing experiences about cultural traditions.
Benefits:
● Builds confidence in expressing oneself.
● Enhances listening skills as students must engage with others’ opinions.
● Promotes a classroom atmosphere of respect and openness.
Problem Solving Tasks
Definition: These tasks require students to collaborate and use language to find solutions to
specific challenges or scenarios.
Purpose:
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 ● Develop critical thinking and collaborative skills.
● Promote language use in context, often requiring negotiation and clarification.
● Encourage the use of specific vocabulary and structures relevant to the problem at hand.
Examples:
● Planning a trip with a limited budget.
● Designing a product to solve a particular community issue.
● Role-playing a scenario where a group must resolve a conflict.
Benefits:
● Encourages teamwork and communication strategies.
● Provides a context for using language pragmatically.
● Helps students practice language relevant to real-world situations.
In a TBLT framework, both opinion exchange and problem-solving tasks can be integrated to
create a dynamic learning environment. For example, after discussing opinions on environmental
issues, students might work in groups to devise a plan for a community project addressing those
concerns. This combination allows for a rich interplay of language skills, fostering both expressive
and collaborative competencies.

UNIT 4
ELT IN PRACTICE: LESSON PLANNING AND CLASS ROOM MANAGEMENT-
THEORY AND PRACTICE IN TEACHING ENVIRONMENT.
LESSON PLANNING
A lesson plan is a teacher's detailed guide that outlines what students need to learn, how the
subject would be delivered, and the achievement of class goals measured. No matter what subject
is being taught, having a lesson plan guides the learning process by providing a clear outline to
follow while teaching. Having the lessons planned ensures every bit of time spent in class turns
out meaningful. The teacher and students would definitely know what to do in the classroom.
Details of a lesson plan may vary slightly depending on the subject being taught, the teacher's
preference, and the needs of the students. Not every bit of the details has to be in a lesson plan. It
should be a fine-tuned outline that builds on each period and provides a seamless transition from
one lesson to the next.
While lesson plans may vary slightly from one another, there are common components that build
each one. The components work together to bring out the overall quality of a lesson plan. This
will, in turn, determine how efficiently class time is utilized and the learning objectives achieved.
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A good lesson plan that would work well for both teachers and students has to include the
following.
1. Details of the lesson
Indicate what the lesson is about and the class you're going to teach. The details should include
the unit, lesson number, class period, and the topic to be handled during the lesson.
2. Lesson objectives
The objectives of the lesson act like the mainframe of the whole plan. Setting out objectives
targeted by the lesson is the most important part that will guide you to achieve what is expected
from the class. Carefully write down three or four most relevant objectives students are expected
to attain by the end of the lesson. The objectives should be SMART (Specific, Measurable,
Achievable, Realistic, and Time-bound) and written from the learner's perspective.
3. Teaching aids
List the tools you'll use to facilitate learning by attracting your students' attention. The teaching
materials should be adapted to the learning environment as well as students' learning levels. From
pictures, flashcards, drawings, wall sheets, charts, and diagrams to real objects, the teacher should
only write down what the lesson will use.
4. Lesson Procedure
Stages of the class session are like the framework of the lesson. Lesson procedure should work
out to harmonize the following main stages of a lesson:
Warm-up stage – In which you should share, in a single sentence, how to prepare the students
for the new lesson.
Presentation – Have at least three focused steps to introduce the lesson's content highlighted in
the framework. The presentation should work out to capture the students' attention as you hammer
in your lesson objectives.
Practice – You could divide this stage into controlled, guided, and free methods. Write one
sentence indicating how to cover each type.
5. Evaluation
The evaluation stage has two categories:
Assessment – Write how to ascertain the students achieved the objectives set at the beginning of
the lesson. You might have questions for students to answer in writing, or orally, give home
assignments or anything suitably bringing out to what extent students have attained the lesson
goals.

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Self-evaluation – You, as a teacher, should take time to reflect on your lesson after ending it.
Write out how things went on during class. Were the lesson objectives well achieved? Otherwise,
what more needs to be done to achieve lesson goals?
6. Timing
During your lesson, for efficient time management, specify what time each stage will take and
commit to the timeframe. If possible, have a specific time beside each stage, task, or activity.
Allow students to have a role in classroom activities, and projects by involving them in decision-
making procedures. Encourage student participation and collaboration to foster ownership and
responsibility for their learning. Be adaptable to new classroom dynamics and demands. Based on
student feedback and assessment data, modify teaching tactics, pacing, and activities. Flexibility
enables substantial adaptations that improve learning results. Engage in self-reflection and solicit
input from colleagues, students, and mentors to consistently improve classroom management
practices. Reflect on your triumphs and challenges, identify areas for improvement, and look into
professional development options. By implementing these concepts, tactics, and best practices
into English Language Teaching, educators may create an atmosphere that maximizes language
learning opportunities, increases student engagement, and fosters a good and productive
classroom experience.
EFFECTIVE CLASSROOM MANAGEMENT
Effective classroom management is a critical component of successful teaching and learning.
“Good classroom management is the art of dealing with problems positively and looking for
solutions together so that everyone is involved and willing to find a remedy”(Ghosh). It refers to
the tactics and practices used by educators to establish a pleasant and productive learning
environment in which children can prosper intellectually, socially, and emotionally. Classroom
management in the context of education includes a variety of components such as establishing
routines, controlling student behaviour, boosting student participation, and fostering a healthy
classroom climate. It is impossible to emphasise the value of good classroom management,
particularly in the context of English language teaching (ELT). Diverse students from different
cultural communities and linguistic skill levels frequently fill English language educational
institutions. Additionally, good language acquisition demands active engagement,
communication, and practice, all of which are dependent on well-managed classrooms.
“Classroom management refers to skill in the organization and presentation of lessons in such a
way that all students are actively engaged in learning” (Smith 76).

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The goal of successful classroom management is to foster student learning and growth while
minimising interruptions and distractions. It entails setting clear expectations, norms, and
processes that provide as a foundation for behaviour and learning. Building strong relationships
with students, establishing a sense of belonging, and cultivating a supportive and inclusive
classroom culture are all important aspects of effective classroom management. There are various
advantages to competent classroom management. Students feel protected, respected, and driven
to learn in a well-managed classroom. They are more likely to actively participate, get involved
with learning activities, and take responsibility for their education. Effective classroom
management strategies also help to improve academic performance, student accomplishment, and
overall classroom dynamics.
At the beginning of the academic year or course, clearly express classroom expectations,
regulations, and procedures to students. Ascertain that expectations are in line with language
learning objectives, and offer students a framework for behaviour and engagement. Create a
welcoming and inclusive classroom environment in which children feel safe, respected, and
appreciated. Encourage students’ mutual respect and collaboration, and foster a climate of open
communication and active listening. Positive behaviour and efforts should be recognized and
reinforced. Celebrate accomplishments, give constructive feedback, and recognise students’
progress throughout their language learning journey. Moreover, positive reinforcement increases
motivation and promotes desired behaviours. Create deep bonds with students based on trust,
respect, and concern. Demonstrate real interest in their specific needs, backgrounds, and learning
methods. A healthy teacher-student relationship encourages participation and offers a supportive
learning environment. Engage students in the learning process by using a variety of interactive
and participatory activities. Incorporate group projects, pair projects, conversations, and hands-on
activities that promote language practice and meaningful communication. Recognise and address
individual learning needs by differentiating instruction. Provide assistance and challenges based
on students’ language competence levels, interests, and learning styles. To accommodate a wide
range of learners, use a variety of educational materials and methodologies. Maintain orderly
transitions between tasks, making sure that students are aware of their responsibilities at all times.
Utilise cues, signals, and time management strategies to keep the activity flow fruitful. Regularly
assess students’ progress and give timely feedback on their language skills, homework, and
responsibilities. Individualised feedback to address specific growth areas and celebrate
achievements.
PEER TEACHING
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Peer teaching is not a new concept. It can be traced back to Aristotle’s use of archons, or student
leaders, and to the letters of Seneca the Younger. It was first organized as a theory by Scotsman
Andrew Bell in 1795, and later implemented into French and English schools in the 19th century.
Peer teaching is a method by which one student instructs another student in material on which the
first is an expert and the second is a novice. Goodlad and Hurst (1989) and Topping (1998) note
that academic peer tutoring at the college level takes many different forms. Surrogate teaching,
common at larger universities, involves giving older students, often graduates or advanced
undergraduates, some or all of the teaching responsibility for undergraduate courses. Proctoring
programs involve one-on-one tutoring by students who are slightly ahead of other students, or
who have successfully demonstrated proficiency with the material in the recent past. Cooperative
learning divides classmates into small groups, with each person in the group responsible for
teaching others, and each contributing a unique piece to the group performance on a task.
Reciprocal peer tutoring (RPT), a more specific version of cooperative learning, groups
classmates into pairs to tutor each other.
The main benefits of peer teaching include, but are not limited to, the following:
1. Students receive more time for individualized learning.
2. Direct interaction between students promotes active learning.
3. Peer teachers reinforce their own learning by instructing others.
4. Students feel more comfortable and open when interacting with a peer.
5. Peers and students share a similar discourse, allowing for greater understanding.
6. Peer teaching is a financially efficient alternative to hiring more staff members.
7. Teachers receive more time to focus on the next lesson. Research also indicates that peer
learning activities typically yield the following results for both tutor and tutee: team-building spirit
and more supportive relationships; greater psychological wellbeing, social competence,
communication skills and self-esteem; and higher achievement and greater productivity in terms
of enhanced learning outcomes.
Features
1. Be sure your tutors are trained. Existing research identifies adequate tutor training as an
essential component of peer tutoring programs
2. Use a reward system. What sets this peer tutoring program apart from common peer tutoring
practices is the inclusion of a reward system for students to encourage participation and on-task
behavior

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3. Emphasize confidentiality, positive reinforcement, and adequate response time. The tutors at
Student-2-Student are taught to demonstrate three important things during any given tutoring
session: confidentiality, positive reinforcement, and adequate response time when asking
questions. The training process also instructed tutors on explaining directions, designing work for
extra practice, watching for and correcting mistakes, and providing positive feedback and
encouragement.
4. Choose the learning exercise and the appropriate vehicle for it. Simply placing students in
groups or pairs and telling them to “work together” is not going to automatically yield results.
You must consciously orchestrate the learning exercise and choose the appropriate vehicle for it.
Only then will students in fact engage in peer learning and reap the benefits of peer teaching.
5. Use group strategies: To facilitate successful peer learning, teachers may choose from an array
of strategies:
•Buzz Groups: A large group of students is subdivided into smaller groups of 4–5 students to
consider the issues surrounding a problem. After about 20 minutes of discussion, one member of
each sub-group presents the findings of the sub-group to the whole group.
•Affinity Groups: Groups of 4–5 students are each assigned particular tasks to work on outside of
formal contact time. At the next formal meeting with the teacher, the sub-group, or a group
representative, presents the sub-group’s findings to the whole tutorial group.
•Solution and Critic Groups: One sub-group is assigned a discussion topic for a tutorial and the
other groups constitute “critics” who observe, offer comments and evaluate the subgroup’s
presentation. •“Teach-Write-Discuss”: At the end of a unit of instruction, students have to answer
short questions and justify their answers. After working on the questions individually, students
compare their answers with each other’s. A whole-class discussion subsequently examines the
array of answers that still seem justifiable and the reasons for their validity.
6. Use role playing and modelling. During the first week of the sixth grade reading program,
project staff explained the tutoring procedures and the lottery, modelled each component of the
program, and used role-playing to effectively demonstrate ways to praise and correct their peers.
7. Emphasize the importance of active learning. Many institutions of learning now promote
instructional methods involving “active” learning that present opportunities for students to
formulate their own questions, discuss issues, explain their viewpoints, and engage in cooperative
learning by working in teams on problems and projects.
8. Teach instructional scaffolding. To reap the benefits of peer teaching, tutees must reach a point
when they are practicing a new task on their own.
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9. Explain directive versus nondirective tutoring. A tutor who engages in directive tutoring
becomes a surrogate teacher, taking the role of an authority and imparting knowledge.
10. Explain how to provide feedback. Positive verbal feedback: Teach your tutors the importance
of positive verbal feedback. Prompt students to come up with a list of standard statements which
they feel may be positively reinforcing. Corrective feedback: Teach your tutors how to respond
when an incorrect answer is given. When an incorrect answer is given, the tutor should promptly
give and explain the correct answer or draw the correct answer out of the tutee without being
critical of the tutee, and then give the tutee an opportunity to repeat the correct answer.
MICRO TEACHING
The art of teaching is a complex process, which is not limited to transferring of knowledge from
one to another. It requires good verbal and non-verbal skills. It includes various techniques in
order to transfer knowledge effectively. Not everyone can master it. With the vast growth in all
sectors, effective teaching skills are in great demand. Therefore, due to this demand, the concept
of microteaching came into action. It is a new innovative program for teachers, which enhances
their classroom attitude and behaviour. Many pre-primary education institutes have taken up
micro teaching practices in order to equip teachers with an effective method of teaching.
Concept of Micro teaching: Micro-Teaching is a special teaching practice model or teaching
training method. In this teaching context, there contains many actions like use of methods, usage
of media, learning guide, motivation, classroom management, assessment, analyzing and so on.
The concept of microteaching is mainly based on the following points:-
• Teaching in its real form but with a minimum concept
• The exercise which is designed focuses mostly on the basic teaching skills with the help of
feedback based on the knowledge and information of the student learning level.
• The teaching is conducted for students who are from different backgrounds and their intellectual
abilities.
• Monitoring the micro-teaching exercises conducted in classrooms
• Enabling the prospective teachers to learn effective teaching skills.
• Helping the students to actively participate in teaching by providing a low-risk situation.
• It also offers opportunities for retraining at regular time intervals
Features of Micro-teaching:
1. Micro-Element: Micro teaching reduces to complexities of the teaching situation in terms of
students, duration of the lesson and subject matter to be taught so as to enable the trainee to
concentrate on the training process. Training is also given in the mastery of only one skill at a
59
time. One should master the components of the task of teaching before he attempts to perform
effectively the complicated task of teaching at macro-level.
2. Teaching Skills and Teaching Strategies: Various researchers have listed a wide variety of
skills which are representative of the tasks, procedures and strategies involved in teaching many
subjects at different levels. The repertoire of skills which have been taught of, under the task of
teaching may be classified under three heads.
(i) Pre-Instructional Skill: Which involve writing of instructional objectives, sequencing and
organising knowledge to be presented in order to achieve specific objectives, appropriate content,
proper organisation, selection of proper audio-visual aids etc.
(ii) Instructional skills: Like skills of introducing a lesson, skills of explaining and illustrating,
reinforcement, probing questions, reinforcing pupil participation, diagnosing pupil’s difficulties
etc.
(iii) Post-Instructional skills: Like skills of writing test items, interpreting pupils, performance in
a test, planning remedial measures etc
3. The feed-back Element: In the present system of assessing the teaching competency of the
trainees, feedback is given by the supervisor. In micro-teaching several reliable and authentic
sources can be employed for providing necessary feedback. (a) Oral feedback by the supervising
teachers. (b) Observation schedules filled in by the peer group participating in the micro-lesson.
(c) Audio-tape recording is a source of accurate feedback. (d) Video-tape recording provides the
most accurate and powerful source of feedback.
4. Safe Practice Ground: A micro-teaching laboratory appears to possess all the inherent features
of the classroom.
5. The Teaching Models: The trainees have many opportunities to study the desired patterns of
behaviour through a tape or film of teaching models or a demonstration given by the supervisor.
Using these models as guides, the trainees will develop their own style.
Procedure of Micro teaching:
1) Skill definition: The pupil-teacher or the supervisor defines a certain skill. The skills of micro
teaching are defined regarding the teaching behaviours in order to procure knowledge of required
skills, which they have to focus on.
2) Demonstration: The demonstration is the second step in the process. Experts demonstrate the
specific skill by themselves or with the help of audio\video tape recordings to the teacher trainee.
This gives an idea to the teachers to work accordingly.

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3) Lesson planning: This step is the first action by the student-teacher. The trainee teacher plans
a short lesson through which he/she could practice the skill. This microteaching lesson plan is
done with the help of his supervisor.
4) Conducting lesson: Once the planning is done, according to the targeted skill the pupil-teacher
teaches the planned lesson to the group of students. These lessons are observed by supervisors and
pupil teachers. Further, they are videotaped, audio-taped, or televised through a CCTV camera.
These tapes are later used for self-evaluation as well.
5) Discussion and conclusion: Once the teaching session comes to an end it is followed by a
concluding session. The concluding session consists of feedback from the supervisor. During this
session, the audio or video recording may also be displayed in order to give an opportunity to
evaluate oneself. Moreover, it also boosts the confidence level of the trainee. It is the best way to
reinforce the trainee to work better the next time.
6) Re-planning: Mastering a skill is an ongoing process. Thus, once the cycle of micro teaching
revolves, the process is repeated. This repetition involves the re-planning of the lesson plan. The
aim of this replanning is to master the skill mentioned earlier.
7) Re-teaching: On completion of the re-planning of the lesson, it is again taught to another group
of students from the same class. The time duration is kept as same as the previous class. This
method contributes in practicing the skill repeatedly.
8) Re-discussion: At the end of the re-teaching session, the discussion and conclusion step is
repeated. These discussions and suggestions encourage the performance of the trainee. Thus, the
process of feedback is procured to enhance performance furthermore.
9) Redoing: After the end of every session, this cycle is repeated. The repetition is continued until
the required skill is mastered. This process is repeated while attaining all the required skills. Thus,
we can conclude that micro-teaching involves the 4R’s viz, Recording, Re-teaching, Re-
discussing, and Redoing.
TESTING AND TYPES OF TESTING
1. Achievement Test
An achievement test, also referred to as attainment or summative test, are devised to
measure how much of a language someone has learned with reference to a particular course
of study or programme of instruction, e.g. end-of-year tests designed to show mastery of
a language. An achievement test might be a listening comprehension test based on a
particular set of situational dialogues in a textbook. The test has a two-fold objective:
1) To help the teachers judge the success of their teaching.
61
 2) To identify the weaknesses of their learners.
In more practical and pedagogical terms, Brown (1994, p. 259) defines an achievement
test as „tests that are limited to particular material covered in a curriculum within a
particular time frame‟. In other words, they are designed primarily to measure individual
progress rather than as a means of motivating or reinforcing language. Ideally,
achievement tests are rarely constructed by classroom teacher for a particular class.
2. Diagnostic Test
As its name denotes, a diagnostic test is primarily designed to diagnose some particular
linguistic aspects. Diagnostic tests in pronunciation, for example, might have the purpose
of determining which particular phonological features of the English language are more
likely to pose problems and difficulties for a group of learners. One of the well-known
diagnostic tests in English is Prator‟s (1972) Diagnostic Passage. It consists of a short
written passage that the learner reads orally; the teacher then examines a tape recording of
that reading against a very detailed checklist of pronunciation errors. Basically, diagnostic
language tests have a threefold objective: 1. To provide learners with a way to start
learning with their own personal learning programme or what would be called in the
literature of testing learning paths.
2. To provide learners with a way to test their knowledge of a language.
3. To provide learners with better information about their strengths and weaknesses.
Ideally, diagnostic tests are designed to assess students‟ linguistic knowledge (knowledge
of and about the language) and language skills (listening, speaking, reading and writing)
before a course is begun. However, the term formative is sometimes used to designate a
diagnostic test. One of the main advantages of a diagnostic test is that it offers useful
pedagogical solutions for mixed-ability classes. In this very specific context, Broughton et
al. (1980) contend that:
There will certainly be a large block in the middle of the ability range who can be
separated off as a group for some parts of the lesson, or for some lessons, and will
form a more homogenous teaching group. If this strategy is adopted, the poor ones
and the better ones must receive their due time and attention. (Broughton et al. 1980,
p. 189)
3. Language Aptitude Test
Before one ventures into defining what a language aptitude test is, it would be wiser to
start first by defining what a language aptitude is. Language aptitude, as a hybrid concept
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 part linguistic and part psychological, refers to the genuine ability one is endowed with to
learn a language. It is thought to be a combination of several abilities:
∙ Phonological ability, i.e. the ability to detect phonetic differences (e.g. of stress,
intonation, vowel quality) in a new language.
∙ Syntactic ability, i.e., the ability to recognize the different grammatical functions of words
in sentences.
∙ Psychological ability, i.e. rote-learning abilities and the ability to make inferences and
inductive learning. Additionally, Crystal (1989, p. 371) suggests other variables conducive
to successful language learning such as „empathy and adaptability, assertiveness and
independence with good drive and powers of application‟. A high language-aptitude
person can learn more quickly and easily than a low language-aptitude individual. The
evidence in such assertion is axiomatic in a language aptitude test. A language aptitude
test tends to measure a learner aptitude for language learning, be it second or foreign, i.e.
students performance in a language. Thus, it is used to identify those learners who are most
likely to succeed. Language aptitude tests usually consist of several different test items
which measures such abilities as: ∙ Sound-coding ability, i.e. the ability to identify and
remember new sounds in a new language. ∙ Grammar-coding ability, i.e. the ability to
identify the grammatical functions of different parts of sentences. ∙ Inductive-learning
ability, i.e. the ability to work out meanings without explanation in the new language. ∙
Memorization, i.e. the ability to remember and to recall words, patterns, rules in the new
language. Two well-known standardized language aptitude tests have been used in the
United States, the Modern Language Aptitude Test (Carroll and Sapon, 1958) and the
Primsleur Language Aptitude Battery (Primsleur, 1966). Both of these are English tests
and require students to perform such tasks as learning numbers, listening, detecting
spelling clues and grammatical patterns and memorizing (Brown, 1994).
4. Placement Test
A placement test, as its name implies, is originally designed to place learners at an
appropriate level in a programme or course. The term “placement test” as Richards et al.
(1989) note does not refer to what a test contains or how it is constructed, but to the purpose
for which it used. Various types or testing procedures such as dictation, interview or a
grammar test (discrete or integrative) can be used for placement purposes. The English
Placement test (EPT), which is a well-known test in America, is an illustrative example of
this test-type. The EPT is designed to assess the level of reading and writing skills of
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 entering undergraduate students so that they can be placed in appropriate courses. Those
undergraduate students who do not demonstrate college or university-level skills will be
directed to remedial courses or programmes to help them attain these skills.
5. Proficiency Test
A proficiency test is devised to measure how much of a language someone has learned. It
is not linked to any particular course of instruction, but measures the learner‟s general
level of language mastery. Most English language proficiency tests base their testing items
on high frequency-count vocabulary and general basic grammar. Some proficiency tests
have been standardized for worldwide use, such as the well-known American tests, the
TOEFL, and the English Language Proficiency Test (ELPT)3 which are used to measure
the English language proficiency of foreign students intending further study at English-
speaking institutions, namely the USA. However, the Cambridge Certificate of Proficiency
in English or CPE, as it is generally referred to, is the most advanced remains the only
British top-value and high prestige standardized 4 language test. It is the most advanced
general English exam provided by the University of Cambridge. The Certificate is
recognized by universities and employees throughout the world. The English level of those
who pass the CPE is supposed to similar to that of a fairly educated native speaker of
English. Clearly, as Valette posits, „the aim of a proficiency test is to determine whether
this language ability corresponds to specific language requirements‟ (Valette, 1977, p. 6)
Actually, there are four other types of Cambridge proficiency tests, the Cambridge Key
English Test (KET), the Cambridge Preliminary English Test (PET), The Cambridge First
Certificate of English (FCE) and the Cambridge Certificate in Advanced English (CAE).
The material contained in proficiency tests can be used for teaching as well as for testing.
In essence, a proficiency test measures what the student has learned in relation to a specific
purpose, e.g. does the student know enough English to follow a course offered in English?

64
 The Language of Digital Space:
English and New Media
(ENG1MN102)

Minor Course Offered by English Departments under

CUFYUGP

Study Notes

(PS: This is not a Textbook.

It is a Compilation of Material from Various Sources to Aid
Students)

65
 For the kind attention of those who are using this document, this is not a
textbook, it is only a compilation of materials from various sources to aid
students. The content here has been prepared to temporarily meet the scarcity
of material for English Minor The Language of Digital Space: English and New
Media. The document relies on various online sources and AI to for its content.
The purpose of it being only knowledge sharing and not commercial. We are
hoping to put together a Textbook for the upcoming batches. Till then,
hopefully, this material could be helpful.

Module 1

New Age Digital Spaces

You all must have come to choose this paper with a lot of questions in your mind. Like;
what all things will I learn, how will I benefit from it? Whether it will be enjoyable? Don’t
worry. The intention of this paper is very clear. It is an attempt to help understand the digital
spaces around us in today’s world where we connect to each other, interact and share. We have
come a long way from the basic concept of internet connectivity to seamless and intuitive
technologies that have deeply integrated into our lives. We connect to friends and family over
social networking apps and instant messaging. We use the internet to know more about the
world; internet has also become the place where we express ourselves and show our creativity
to the world.

In this scenario, understanding these online spaces; their scope, relevance and impact
can help us engage with these spaces better, use them more productively and creatively for our
own growth and social good.

Over the years, the mediums through which people connected with each other and
shared information have undergone dramatic changes. Emerging technologies keep paving way
to innovative communication tools and strategies. For our ease of understanding, we can divide
these media into two categories. Traditional Media and New Media. Let us try to understand
these concepts better.
Traditional Media

Traditional Media refers to conventional mass communication methods that existed before
digital technologies. It includes:

• Print Media: Newspapers, magazines, and newsletters.

• Broadcast Media: Television and radio.
• Outdoor Media: Billboards and posters.
• Direct Mail: Printed materials sent directly to individuals.
• Film: Movies shown in theatres.
• Analog Audio: Formats like cassette tapes and vinyl records.
• Books: Long-form printed content.

Key Features of Traditional Media:

• One-way Communication: Information flows from source to audience with no direct

feedback.
• Limited Interactivity: Audiences can't engage deeply with the content.
• Physical Format: Exists in tangible forms, like printed materials.
• Scheduled Distribution: Content is broadcast at specific times.
• Localized Reach: Often more regional compared to global new media.
• Higher Production Costs: More expensive and time-consuming to produce.
• Professional Gatekeepers: Journalists and editors decide what gets published.
• Longevity: Printed materials can be accessed without digital devices.
• Limited Analytics: Difficult to track audience engagement compared to digital media.
• Offline Consumption: Can be consumed without internet access.

Despite its relevance, traditional media's influence has diminished with the rise of new media,
which offers greater interactivity and accessibility. The line between traditional and new media
continues to blur as digital technologies advance.

New Media

New Media refers to modern digital communication forms that emerged in the digital
age, including the internet, social media, mobile devices, virtual reality, and augmented reality.
These platforms enable real-time interaction and content creation, fostering a participatory
digital environment.
Key Features of New Media:

• Interactivity: Encourages user participation and engagement, contrasting with the

one- way communication of traditional media.
• Accessibility: Widely available globally through digital technologies.
• Global Reach: Content can be shared and accessed worldwide, promoting diversity.
• Multimedia Integration: Combines text, images, audio, and video for immersive
experiences.
• Real-time Communication: Facilitates instant information exchange via social media
and messaging.
• User-generated Content: Allows users to create and share their own
content, democratizing information.
• Personalization: Algorithms tailor content to individual user preferences.
• Virality and Shareability: Content can quickly spread and gain wide visibility.
• Constant Evolution: Continuously changing with new technologies and trends.
• Integration of Virtual and Real Worlds: Augmented and virtual reality create immersive
experiences.

Overall, new media has transformed communication, information access, and interaction,
significantly impacting modern life.

Material Courtesy: StudyMassCom.com

Media Convergence

Media Convergence simply refers to the merging of different types of mass media such
as Traditional Media, Print Media, Broadcast Media, New Media and the Internet as well as
portable and highly interactive technologies through digital media platforms. This results in the
combination of 3Cs, i.e. Communication, Computing and Content as all three are integrated
through technology. The most relevant example of media convergence is a Smartphone that
blends together various media, i.e. print media (e-books, news apps), broadcast media
(streaming websites, radio, music apps) as well as new media (the internet) into a single device
that performs various functions from calling and texting to photography, videography, gaming
and so much more.
Other examples: Online Radio (converging radio with the Internet)
E-books (converging paperbacks with the digital technology)
 News Websites and Apps
Material Courtesy: LeverageEdu.com

We have had a fair understanding of a change from traditional media forms to new age,
digital media forms. Now let us look into some of the prominent digital media forms that we
use on an everyday scale.

1. Social Media: Platforms like Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and LinkedIn allow users to
share updates and media, and connect with others.

2. Websites: Online platforms offering various types of content, information, and

services, accessible through web browsers.

3. Online News Portals: Websites dedicated to providing news updates and articles,
accessible to users around the world.

4. Streaming Services: Platforms like Netflix, Hulu, and Disney+ that offer on-demand video
content through internet streaming.

5. Podcasts: Digital audio programs available for download or streaming, covering a wide
range of topics and interests.

6. Mobile Apps and Games: Applications designed for smartphones and tablets, offering
various services, games, and content.

7. Blogs: Personal or professional websites that publish articles, opinions, and information,
often allowing readers to comment and engage with the author.

Material Courtesy: StudyMassCom.com

Now, let us take a deeper look into each of these Digital Media Platforms

Social Media

Social Media has become a crucial part of everyday life, enabling connection,
expression, and business promotion through platforms like Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and
LinkedIn. Social media includes online platforms that allow users to create and share content,
interact, and build communities. Its key features are:

• Multimedia Sharing: Users can share photos, videos, and memes.

• Expression: People express opinions and ideas through posts and comments.
• Community Building: Groups and pages form around shared interests.
 • Business Promotion: Companies can market their brands and products.
• Access to News: Social media serves as a source for real-time updates on current events.

Advantages:

• Staying Connected: Facilitates communication across distances and time zones.

• Access to News: Provides instant updates on global events.
• Personal Branding: Platforms help professionals promote their skills
and accomplishments.
• Business Opportunities: Useful for market research, brand awareness, and customer
engagement.
• Convenience: Enables easy communication and information access via mobile devices.
• Fosters Innovation: Encourages creativity and lifelong learning through diverse ideas.
• Entertainment: Offers various content for leisure, such as videos and memes.
• Social Change: Supports discussions and movements for societal issues.
• Skill Development: Provides access to instructional content for learning new skills.
• Educational Supplement: Aids collaboration and resource sharing in academic contexts.

Disadvantages:

• Distraction: Excessive use can hinder productivity.

• Misinformation: Viral posts can spread false information.
• Privacy Issues: Oversharing can lead to data vulnerabilities.
• Fake Connections: Can promote shallow relationships over meaningful interactions.
• Addiction: Frequent checking can lead to compulsive behaviour.
• Bullying: Enables harassment and trolling.
• Social Isolation: Reduces face-to-face interactions, leading to loneliness.
• Mental Health Effects: Linked to anxiety and depression, especially in teens.
• Unrealistic Comparisons: Promotes pressure to present a perfect image.
• Scams: Facilitates the spread of fraud and scams.
• Overall, while social media offers significant benefits for connectivity and expression,
it also poses challenges that impact well-being and relationships.
Material Courtesy: Rakesh Raghavan @WAC
 Activity: Let students share their experience over various social media platforms. Let these
points be in focus:

1. The nature of platform (What does it allow to share, how do you connect to others
on this platform
2. Who are the target users? (Age group, tastes etc.)
3. What kind of content gets shared mostly? (The ideas discussed; the nature of media
shared)
4. What type of language gets used here?
5. What are the recent trends observed on these social media platforms?

Online News Portals

With its popularity and easier access to the internet, people have started relying more
on online news portals or news-based web pages to stay updated about the latest news. An
online news portal is basically a website which hosts recent news, it has the added advantage
of using videos, images and hyperlinks to make it more attractive. It may also allow comments
from users, making it more interactive in comparison with traditional media. Online news
portals are faster, more cost effective and easier to access than traditional newspapers or
magazines. Many traditional media firms have also started their online news portals and apps
to maintain the connectedness with people. While online news portals have the advantage of
being updated at any point of the day, they also often are prone to being unverified or fake too.
Here, the users will have to rely on their discretion and judgement.

Creating content for online news cannot be similar to offline, physical media. The writing has
to be:

1. Concise and to the point: Since people read on the screens of mobile devices mostly,
it is important to cut short ideas and come to the point directly. Readers may not
spend time to go through a detailed and lengthy article.
2. Simplicity: Long winding and complex sentences, difficult vocabulary etc. would make
reading online even more difficult. On digital spaces, simpler and easier to grasp
language and style would be more appreciated by readers.
3. Catchy, attractive headlines: The abundance of news platforms online make the field
very competitive. In order to attract audiences, the content will have to be unique;
the title should be even more interesting, evoking curiosity I the reader.
 4. Integration of images, videos, animation and hyperlinks: Internet allows users to add
multimedia elements within news stories and articles. Such multi media integration
makes content even more attractive and engaging.

Some of the most popular online news platforms in India include: The Times of India, NDTV,
India Today, the Hindu etc, In Shorts etc.

Activity: Let students take up one piece of news from an online platform of their

choice and discuss the following ideas:

1. The language used

2. The structure of the news item
3. The impact of the title
4. Use of multi-media
5. Impact on the reader

Blogging

Blogs are regularly updated websites that provide insights on specific topics,
originating as online diaries but evolving into key platforms for information sharing and
marketing. Many people even make a living as professional bloggers. While blogs are not a
replacement for journalism, they are increasingly trusted sources for answers and advice.

Types of Blogs

• Food
• Travel
• Health and fitness
• Lifestyle
• Fashion and beauty
• Photography
• Personal

Steps to Start a Blog

• Choose a Blogging Platform: Use customizable platforms like Blogger, WordPress or
Wix.
• Pick a Hosting Platform: Select one with good bandwidth and support.
 • Find Your Niche: Define your theme and target audience.
• Select a Blog Name and Domain: Choose a descriptive and engaging name.
• Set Up and Design Your Blog: Incorporate visuals that match your theme.
• Brainstorm Topics: Generate and refine ideas for posts.
• Write Your First Post: Use an engaging title and structured content.
• Create an Editorial Calendar: Plan a consistent publishing schedule.
• Promote Your Blog: Employ marketing strategies to reach a wider audience.
• Monetize Your Blog: Explore ways to earn revenue from your content.

Writing Effective Blog Posts

• Choose a Compelling Topic: Address issues relevant to your audience.

• Craft an Attention-Grabbing Title: A catchy title is crucial for attracting readers.
• Outline Your Post: Organize your thoughts for clear communication.
• Establish Connection: Make your writing personal to engage readers.
• Use a Clear Layout: Employ short paragraphs and bullet points for readability.
• Write from the Heart: Passionate writing connects better with audiences.
• Propose Solutions: Offer clear conclusions or solutions to discussed topics.
• Consider SEO: Optimize for search engines to increase visibility.
• Proofread: Edit for typos and clarity before publishing.
• Promote Your Work: Network and use social media to share your posts.
• Be Consistent: Try to produce fresh content regularly .

Overall, blogging serves as a dynamic medium for personal expression, marketing, and
knowledge sharing, continually evolving with digital trends.

Material Courtesy: MasterClass.com, Wix.com

Activity: Make a plan for a blog. Work out its following aspects:

1. What will the nature of the blog be?

2. What kind of content will be hosted?
3. Who will be the target audience?
4. Which platform will one use and why?
5. What kind of designs are in plan?
6. How will they try to bring in audience engagement?
Video Streaming Services and OTT Platforms

Video streaming is the process of delivering video content over the internet in real time.
It allows users to watch videos without having to download them first, making it a popular and
convenient way to consume media. The penetration rate of video streaming services is very
high globally; mobile applications made these platforms even more democratic. Most services
come with paid subscriptions or make revenue through ads.

OTT stands for “over-the-top” and refers to technology (OTT services or platforms)
that delivers streamed content via internet-connected devices. The most commonly referred to
OTT service is video streaming. Netflix, Amazon Prime, HBO Max, Disney+, Hulu, and
YouTube are OTT providers in the video streaming space.

OTT (Over-The-Top) platforms have transformed media consumption with several key
benefits:
1. Accessibility: Available on multiple devices for viewing anytime, anywhere.
2. Diverse Content: A wide array of movies, shows, and original programming caters to
various tastes.
3. Subscription Flexibility: Users can choose affordable, no-commitment plans.
4. Ad-Free Options: Many platforms provide ad-free viewing experiences.
5. On-Demand Viewing: Content can be watched at users' convenience, not on a schedule.
6. Personalized Recommendations: Tailored suggestions enhance engagement.
7. Global Reach: Access to international content broadens viewing options.
8. Lower Costs: Often more economical than traditional cable packages.
9. No Geographic Restrictions: Users can access content from different regions,
with some exceptions.
10. Innovative Features: Options like offline viewing and multiple profiles enhance user
experience.
Overall, OTT platforms offer flexibility, variety, and convenience, revolutionizing
entertainment consumption.
OTT platforms offer significant benefits for creators in the media and entertainment industry:
1. Wider Audience Reach: Creators can connect with global audiences, overcoming
geographical barriers.
 2. Creative Freedom: Increased flexibility allows for experimentation with genres and
formats.
3. Direct Monetization: Revenue can be generated through subscriptions, ads, and
licensing, providing direct financial benefits.
4. Shorter Production Timelines: Quick demand for content leads to faster production
and distribution.
5. Feedback and Analytics: Detailed viewer insights help creators tailor future content.
6. Niche Content Opportunities: Creators can target specific audiences with unique
content not suited for traditional networks.
7. Collaborative Opportunities: Encouragement for collaboration fosters innovation and
cross-promotions.
8. Increased Visibility: Successful projects gain exposure through platform algorithms and
promotions.
9. Crowdfunding and Support: Some platforms assist independent creators with
funding and resources.
10. Less Censorship: Fewer restrictions allow for more authentic storytelling.
Overall, OTT platforms empower creators with new avenues for distribution, monetization,
and creative expression.
Material Courtesy: OpenAi ChatGpt

Podcasts

a podcast is a digital medium consisting of audio (or video) episodes that relate to a
specific theme. The hosts of a podcast are referred to as "podcasters." While many forms of
media have barriers to entry, a podcast is simple to create. To get started, podcasters only need
basic equipment, like recording software and a microphone. Since podcasts aren't regulated,
anyone is free to record and share content.

Typically, podcasters will record and edit digital content and share it with an audience.
They can post on YouTube, publish audio files on a podcast hosting service (such as Apple
Podcasts, Google Podcasts, or Spotify), or share the podcast episode directly through their
website.
10
 Once a podcast is released, it can attract an audience in several ways. Podcast directories
allow users to discover and subscribe to new podcasts. Since major search engines display
podcast episodes in search results, strong SEO (search engine optimization) can also help a
podcast find listeners.
To make podcasts effective, focus on these key strategies:
• Clear Concept: Define a specific niche to attract a targeted audience.
• High-Quality Production: Invest in good audio equipment to ensure clear sound.
• Engaging Content: Craft compelling stories and discussions to maintain listener
interest.
• Consistent Format: Establish a recognizable format for episodes.
• Regular Schedule: Release episodes consistently to build an audience.
• Strong Intro and Outro: Create memorable segments to establish your podcast’s
identity.
• Engagement with Audience: Encourage listener interaction to build community.
• Promotion: Use social media and collaborations to promote episodes effectively.
• SEO Optimization: Optimize titles and descriptions for better discoverability.
• Analytics Tracking: Monitor statistics to understand audience preferences.
• Call to Action: Include clear prompts for listeners to subscribe or engage.
By implementing these strategies, you can create a podcast that resonates with and grows your
audience.
Material Courtesy: MailChimp.com, OpenAi ChatGpt

Digital Literature

Digital Literature is a genre of literature encompassing works created exclusively on

and for digital devices, such as computers, tablets, and mobile phones. According to writer
Simon Groth, the intention of digital literature is to “showcase innovation and creativity in
storytelling for digital media and new directions in contemporary literary practice informed by
technology.” The video poems on YouTube, short stories on Twitter or a hypertext story are all
forms of literature, digital literature to be precise. The effect of the digital tools for learning
literature is that due to its present ubiquity it reduces inequality and promotes inclusivity. In
places with dearth of learning resources and access to centres of excellences in learning in a
democratic fashion, digitization has become a great tool. According to a study conducted by
the ICF (2015) it is indicative that digital tools and resources can help to reduce gaps in subject
attainment if implemented effectively.

Digital literature refers to literary works that are created, distributed, or consumed in digital
formats. This includes a wide range of forms and genres that leverage technology to enhance
the reading experience. Key aspects of digital literature include:
1. Formats: It encompasses e-books, online poetry, interactive narratives, hypertext
fiction, and multimedia stories that integrate text with images, audio, and video.
2. Interactivity: Many digital literary works allow reader interaction, enabling choices that
can alter the narrative or structure, such as in branching storylines.
3. Accessibility: Digital literature can be accessed on various devices, including
computers, tablets, and smartphones, making it widely available to readers.
4. Community and Collaboration: Digital platforms often facilitate community
engagement, allowing readers and writers to share feedback, collaborate, and
participate in discussions. Fan fiction is a good example where fans create extended
stories from existing works as seen on Fanfiction.Net and Wattpad.
5. Innovative Storytelling: Authors can experiment with form and structure, using
technology to push the boundaries of traditional storytelling.
Digital literature has expanded the ways stories can be told and experienced, blending the lines
between reading and interaction.
Material Courtesy: St Xavier’s College, Jaipur, OpenAi ChatGpt

User Generated Content

Content created and shared by users, often on social media platforms and online
communities. User-generated content (UGC) refers to any form of content—such as text,
images, videos, reviews, and social media posts—created and shared by users or consumers
rather than by brands or organizations. UGC is often seen in the following contexts:
1. Social Media: Posts, comments, and shares by users on platforms like Instagram,
Facebook, and TikTok.
2. Reviews and Testimonials: Feedback provided by customers on websites, forums, or
review sites like Yelp or Amazon.
3. Blogs and Articles: Content written by users about their experiences, opinions, or
expertise, often published on personal blogs or community sites.
 4. Videos and Photos: Content shared on platforms like YouTube, TikTok, or Instagram,
where users showcase their creativity or experiences.
5. Forums and Communities: Contributions made by users in online forums or discussion
groups, such as Reddit.
UGC is valuable for brands as it fosters community engagement, enhances authenticity, and
can serve as a powerful marketing tool, often leading to increased trust and loyalty among
consumers.

Viral Content/ Trending Content

Online content, such as videos, articles, or memes, that spreads rapidly and widely
across the internet through shares and reposts.
Trending or viral content consists of media—such as articles, videos, memes, or social media
posts—that quickly gains widespread attention online. Key characteristics include:
1. High Engagement: Rapid accumulation of likes, shares, comments, and views.
2. Relatable or Emotional Appeal: Resonates with audiences, evoking emotions like
laughter or nostalgia.
3. Timeliness: Relevant to current events or cultural moments, enhancing attention.
4. Shareability: Encourages users to share, amplifying reach.
5. Visual Appeal: Attractive visuals or catchy headlines draw in viewers.
6. Influencer Involvement: Engagement from popular figures can accelerate spread.
Viral content spans various platforms and reflects the interests and behaviors of specific
audiences at a given time.
Material Courtesy: ieltsonlinetests.com

Activity: Let students discuss any viral content of their choice over diverse
platforms in the class. Pay attention to aspects like:

1. Nature of content
2. Target audience
3. Reasons for popularity
 Target Audience
Understanding the audience for your content is a crucial task for online creators. The
age group, gender, social background, education level etc. of the audience will impact what
kind of content they will consume. Having a clear idea of who your target audience is and what
their taste is, will help the creators well in the long run.

A target audience for online platforms is a specific group of people identified as the intended
recipients of content, products, or services. Key aspects of defining this audience include:
1. Demographics: Characteristics like age, gender, income, education, and location.
2. Psychographics: Interests, values, lifestyles, and attitudes that influence engagement.
3. Behavioral Traits: Online habits, purchasing behavior, and brand loyalty.
4. Needs and Pain Points: Understanding what the audience seeks or the problems they
want solved.
5. Platform Preferences: Identifying where the audience spends their time online to
choose effective communication channels.
Clearly defining a target audience helps businesses and content creators develop effective
marketing strategies and improve engagement.

The Language of Digital Media

The language of digital media refers to the specific ways of communication, expression,
and interaction that are unique to digital platforms. It encompasses various elements, including:

• Visual Language: Use of images, graphics, videos, and design elements to convey
messages. Visual storytelling is crucial in capturing attention and enhancing
understanding.

• Textual Language: The style and tone of written content, including headlines, captions,
and hashtags. Digital writing often emphasizes brevity and clarity, catering to quick
consumption. Abbreviations, slang words etc. are also very common in the digital
space.

• Multimedia Elements: Integration of different formats (audio, video, text, and

interactive elements) to create a richer experience. This can include podcasts,
infographics, and interactive graphics.
 • Interactive Language: Features that allow user engagement, such as comments, likes,
shares, and polls. This fosters a sense of community and participation.

• Emojis and GIFs: The use of emojis, GIFs, and memes as a form of expression that
conveys emotions or reactions in a more relatable way.

• Hyperlinks and Navigation: The use of links to direct users to additional information or
related content, creating a non-linear way of consuming information.

• User-Generated Content: Language that evolves from the audience, including slang,
trends, and community-specific jargon, which often reflects cultural shifts.

• Accessibility Features: Consideration of language that makes content accessible

to diverse audiences, including captions, alt text, and simplified language options.

Overall, the language of digital media is dynamic and continually evolving, shaped by
technological advancements and changing user behaviours.

Key Terms:
Here’s a list of key terms commonly used in digital media:
1. Content Creation: The process of generating original material for digital platforms,
including articles, videos, and graphics.
2. Engagement: Interaction between users and content, often measured through
likes, shares, comments, and views.
3. SEO (Search Engine Optimization): Techniques used to improve the visibility of
content in search engine results.
4. Analytics: Tools and methods for tracking and analyzing user behavior and engagement
metrics.
5. User-Generated Content (UGC): Content created by consumers or users rather than
brands, often shared on social media.
6. Influencer Marketing: Collaborating with individuals who have a significant
following to promote products or services.
7. Multimedia: The integration of various content forms, including text, audio, images,
and video.
8. Hashtag: A word or phrase preceded by the “#” symbol, used to categorize content
on social media.
9. Viral Content: Media that rapidly gains popularity and is widely shared across the
internet.
 10. Digital Marketing: Marketing strategies and tactics that utilize digital channels to
reach consumers.
11. Platform: A digital space (e.g., social media, blogs, websites) where content is shared
and consumed.
12. Streaming: Delivering media content over the internet in real-time without requiring
downloading.
13. Podcasting: Creating and distributing audio content that can be streamed or
downloaded.
14. Live Streaming: Broadcasting real-time video content to an audience over the internet.
15. Interactivity: The ability for users to engage and participate actively with digital
content.
16. Content Management System (CMS): Software used to create, manage, and modify
digital content.
17. Mobile Optimization: Designing content and websites to function effectively on
mobile devices.
18. Augmented Reality (AR): Technology that overlays digital information onto the real
world.
19. Virtual Reality (VR): Immersive digital environments that users can interact with,
often using VR headsets.
20. Data Privacy: The handling and protection of user information in digital environments.
21. Clickbait: Headlines or thumbnails designed to attract attention and encourage users
to click, often leading to content that may not deliver on the headline's promise.
22. Influencer: A person with a significant following on social media who can sway
audience opinions or promote products.
These terms are foundational to understanding and navigating the digital media landscape.

(The assistance offered by Open Ai’s ChatGpt in the preparation of this material, in providing information and condensing the
material is duly acknowledged.)
 Module 2

New Age Digital Fictional Narratives

Digital Story Telling

Storytelling is way of telling stories. Stories has been an integral part of our lives. Stories
became to expand via world of mouth and the kept authentic for centuries. From ancient
times the storyteller was a respected person. Myths, legends, fairytales are all part of stories.
Storytelling has been the most powerful tool for centuries in terms of communication and
excites human imagination.
Digital storytelling is the art of using digital tools and media to tell stories. It’s a
multidimensional concept encompassing everything from written blogs and podcasts to
videos and interactive games. The essence of digital storytelling lies in its ability to combine
traditional storytelling with the power of technology.
Digital storytellers often include textual, visual, audio, and interactive elements to enrich the
audience’s experience. The creator can shape a more immersive narrative, make complex
ideas more accessible, or evoke an emotional response.
The digital storytelling process is fundamentally democratic. It empowers anyone with a
device and internet connection to become a storyteller.
Digital storytelling can be traced back to the late 20th century when computers and the
internet started becoming more accessible.
The earliest tools were relatively rudimentary and required specialized skills and equipment.
As multimedia applications and blogging platforms such as WordPress, MySpace, YouTube,
Tumblr, Twitter, and Instagram emerged in the late ’90s and early 2000s, more users started
to create stories and share them in an accessible format.

Evolution/Trajectory of digital storytelling throughout the years

The digital age, marked by the emergence of the internet, smartphones, and cutting-edge
technology, has revolutionized the way stories are told, shared, and perceived. This evolution
from simple blogs to sophisticated, immersive experiences represents a profound shift in our
cultural landscape. In this blog post, we will delve into the nuances of digital storytelling's
evolution, examining its impact and the endless possibilities it unfolds for both creators and
audiences. As we embark on this journey, prepare to uncover the layers that have shaped
storytelling into a vibrant, interactive art form, making it more accessible and engaging than
ever before.
The Dawn of Digital Storytelling
Digital storytelling, in its embryonic form, found its roots in the early days of the internet,
primarily through blogs. These personal or thematic digital diaries allowed individuals to
share their stories with a global audience, marking a significant departure from traditional
publishing barriers. The simplicity and accessibility of blog platforms democratized content
creation, enabling anyone with internet access to become a storyteller. This era fostered a new
 kind of narrative freedom, where diverse voices that were once marginalized could now be
heard.
As technology advanced, so did the tools for storytelling. The integration of multimedia
elements such as images, videos, and sound into digital narratives enhanced the story's
impact, making it more engaging and dynamic. Platforms like YouTube provided storytellers
with a stage to narrate visually, while podcasts emerged as a powerful medium for auditory
storytelling. This era underscored the importance of not only the story but also how it is told,
encouraging storytellers to experiment with different formats and sensory elements to better
connect with their audiences.
The advent of social media platforms like Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram introduced a new
chapter in digital storytelling. Social media became not just a platform for sharing stories but
a space for interactive storytelling. Here, stories are not just told but experienced, shared, and
sometimes even co-created with the audience. The ephemeral stories feature on platforms like
Instagram and Snapchat added a real-time dimension to storytelling, making it more
immediate and transient. This evolution reflects a shift towards more personalized, engaging,
and community-driven narratives.
As technology advanced, so did digital storytelling. The advent of Web 2.0 in the early 2000s
marked a significant turning point. It brought about social media platforms, blogging sites,
and video-sharing services.
In the following years, the rise of smartphones and tablets introduced mobile storytelling,
making digital stories more accessible than ever. Meanwhile, advancements in software have
made it easier for non-professionals and brands to create high-quality content as part
of storytelling in business.
More recently, the field has benefited from the emergence of virtual- and augmented-reality
tools and no-code web and app builders.
The latest frontier in digital storytelling is the creation of immersive and interactive
experiences. Advances in virtual reality (VR), augmented reality (AR), and interactive
gaming have opened up new pathways for storytelling. These technologies allow storytellers
to create enveloping narratives that engage the audience's senses, inviting them to enter the
story's universe and interact with it in a more profound way. From VR documentaries that
place viewers in the heart of the narrative to interactive games that adapt based on choices
made by the player, storytelling has become a multidimensional experience. This shift not
only amplifies the emotional resonance of the story but also blurs the line between creator
and audience, making the experience of storytelling more collaborative and customizable.

Different types of digital storytelling

Digital narratives come in various shapes, sizes, and styles. These are some of the most
common types.

Interactive storytelling

In interactive storytelling, audiences actively participate in the narrative. Instead of passively

consuming a story, viewers become co-creators, making choices that influence the story’s
direction and outcome.
 The most common example of interactive content is a video game. Through gameplay,
players shape the story. They affect character development, plot progression, and even the
game’s ending in a deeply immersive experience.
Marketers can work with digital storytelling tool options to create narratives that put the
consumer in control of the content and products they see.

Multimedia storytelling

Multimedia storytelling refers to the use of different types of media — including text, images,
audio, video, and animation — to tell a story. This approach allows storytellers to create rich,
layered narratives that appeal to various senses, enhancing the audience’s engagement and
understanding.
You can turn any page on your website into a multimedia story by incorporating video clips
and other rich media, such as sound effects. Powerful editors and freely available Creative
Commons content make it easier to develop and source high-quality material.

Social media and user-generated content

Social media elements revolutionized the way we consume stories. Platforms such
as Instagram, Snapchat, and TikTok allow users to share their personal experiences through
photos, short videos, and text updates.
In this type of user-generated content (UGC), the audience members are also the creators.
UGC can also play a significant role in brand storytelling.
Material Courtesy: https://www.hulkapps.com/blogs/ecommerce-hub/the-evolution-of-
digital-storytelling-from-simple-blogs-to-immersive-experiences
https://www.constantcontact.com/blog/digital-storytelling/

New Media tools and platforms to tell Stories

Digital storytelling is a relatively new term that describes the practice of using digital tools to
share stories and experiences. Digital stories are often interactive and compelling
Here are some tools and platforms for telling stories in new media:

A platform that lets writers create stories with illustrations.

 •

Storybird

A platform that lets writers create stories with illustrations.

 •

Canva

A graphic design tool with templates, graphics, and fonts that users can customize.

Piktochart

A tool for creating infographics, presentations, and reports with templates and design
elements.

Snapchat

The original disappearing story app, which has evolved to include stories from brands and
publications, and Spotlights, a short-form video feature.

Adobe Spark

A visual storytelling tool that lets users create social graphics, web pages, and short videos.

A free tool for creating videos with editing tools.

 •

Animoto

A free tool for creating videos with editing tools.

 •
Instagram Stories

A social media feature that lets users share photos and videos to engage their audience.

Facebook

A social media platform that lets users write in-depth stories because there's no limit to the
number of words in a post

Web Series

Web Series are serialized online video content offering diverse narratives and genres,
delivered through digital platforms, reshaping television consumption habits, catering to
specific audiences, and diversifying storytelling approaches in the digital era. A web series
is a series of videos that are released on the internet, and are part of the web television
medium. They can be scripted or non-scripted, and are usually episodic in nature. Web series
first became popular in the late 1990s and early 2000s.

Various OTT Platforms

OTT (over-the-top) is a means of providing television and film content over the internet at the
request and to suit the requirements of the individual consumer. The term itself stands for
“over-the-top”, which implies that a content provider is going over the top of existing internet
services.
OTT platforms deliver digital content over the internet, rather than through traditional media
like TV or radio. OTT platforms can be used to access a variety of content, including:
• Video streaming: Services like Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, Disney+, HBO Max,
and YouTube
• Music and podcasts: Services like Spotify, Amazon Music, and Apple Podcasts
• Communication: Services like WhatsApp, Telegram, Slack, and Signal
OTT content can be accessed on a variety of devices, including: Mobile devices, Smart TVs,
Tablets, Video game consoles, and Personal computers.
OTT platforms allow content publishers and marketers to directly connect with their
audiences, which can lead to personalized experiences and targeted content.
 Some examples of OTT content types include:
• Video on Demand (VOD): Finished content like a movie
• Live: Live streaming of content like a sporting event
• Audio streaming: Internet radio stations and podcasts
• Messaging: OTT-based instant messaging services like Facebook, Google, Skype,
and WeChat
• VOIP: Voice calling platforms like Skype and WeChat

Collaborative Fiction

Collaborative fiction is a type of writing where multiple authors work together to create a
story, sharing creative control. The result is a single story, not a collection of individual
stories with a common theme.
Collaborative fiction can be written for a variety of reasons, including: commercial gain,
education, and recreation.
Some examples of collaborative fiction include works by:
• James Patterson and Dolly Parton
• Louise Penny and Hilary Clinton
• Beatriz Williams, Lauren Willig, and Karen White
• Sarah Pekkanen and Greer Hendricks
• Marie Benedict and Victoria Christopher Murphy
• Kate Quinn and Janie Chang
Collaborative writing can take place in person or digitally. The process typically involves:
1. Planning and setting goals
2. Researching and finding information
3. Outlining and structuring the research into a draft
4. Collaborating to create a draft
5. Revising and editing the draft
6. Proofreading
7. Publishing
Animated Series/ Films For Children
Storytelling through animation is an art form that has been around for centuries. It involves
using visuals, sound, and music to create a narrative that can be understood by viewers.
Animation allows telling stories in ways that would otherwise be impossible. From classic
Disney films to modern computer-generated imagery, storytelling in animation has come a
long way.
Storytelling in animation is more than just creating visuals; it requires careful planning and
storyboarding techniques to ensure the narrative is communicated effectively. Narrative story
methods such as sequencing, montage, and parallel editing are used to guide the viewer
through the story and provide context for the characters and events taking place on the screen.
By understanding how these techniques work together, animators can create engaging stories
with powerful messages that can captivate audiences of all ages.
Animated stories are a way to tell a narrative through moving images, characters, and
sequences. They can be a powerful tool for teaching children, and can also be a way to
connect with people on a deep emotional level.
Here are some characteristics of animated stories:

• Immersive
Animated stories can create worlds that engage viewers and touch their hearts and minds.

• Communicative
Animated stories can communicate complex ideas and emotions in a way that's visually
engaging.

• Transcends cultural boundaries

Animated stories can resonate with people from different backgrounds and cultures.

• Interactive
Animated stories can be dynamic and interactive, encouraging children to engage with the
material.

• Develops skills
Animated stories can help children develop a wide range of skills.
Animated stories are a way to tell a narrative through moving images, characters, and
sequences. They can be a powerful tool for teaching children, and can also be a way to
connect with people on a deep emotional level.
Animated stories can resonate with people from different backgrounds and cultures.
Material courtesy: https://hound-studio.com/blog/unraveling-the-magic-of-storytelling-in-
animation/

Feature Stories
 Feature stories are news stories with a storytelling focus. They are still full of verified facts
and information, but they often include more narrative and anecdotes and human elements.
They are still objective and written in the third person.
They are written in the same manner as news stories with leads, nut grafs and fact-based
endings. But they are often more fun to consume. They are more likely to have alternative
leads, but the newsworthiness is always paramount.
Feature stories allow for more narrative writing and descriptions, but good feature writers
know that their readers might still leave if the story drags. In feature stories, like with news
stories, you need to be stingy with your words, sentences and paragraphs. Every word should
enhance the story to keep readers engaged.
Material Courtesy: https://pressbooks.pub/introjournalism/chapter/chapter-10-feature-stories/

Audio Books

Audiobooks are audio files. They are voice recordings of the text of a book that you listen to
rather than read. Audiobooks can be exact word-for-word versions of books or abridged
versions. You can listen to audiobooks on any smartphone, tablet, computer, home audio
system, or in-car entertainment system.
Audiobooks are usually purchased and downloaded in the same way as digital music and
video. They can also be bought from online bookstores or downloaded free from public
domain sites. Most public library systems offer audiobook downloads online—all you need is
a library card. Even Spotify has an audiobook section.

Independent Publishing Platforms

Independent publishing platforms, also known as self-publishing platforms, are online tools
that allow authors to publish their work. These platforms offer a range of services, including:
• Distribution
Platforms like IngramSpark allow authors to publish their books in digital, hardback, and
paperback formats.
• Conversion
Platforms like Smashwords convert manuscripts into multiple e-book formats.
• Editing and proofreading
Assisted self-publishing companies offer these services, either separately or as a package.
• Marketing
Some platforms offer marketing and promotion services.
Here are some independent publishing platforms:
 • Amazon Kindle Direct Publishing
A comprehensive service that's considered one of the biggest and most important self-
publishing platforms
• Smashwords
A California-based company that allows authors to upload their manuscripts electronically
• Lulu
An online print-on-demand, self-publishing, and distribution platform
• Scribd
An open publishing platform that features a digital library and an e-book and audiobook
subscription service
• MindStir Media
A company that offers services such as book design, editorial, distribution, marketing, and
publicity
• Dreame
A niche reading app from Southeast Asia that offers a royalty payout of 70% for books above
$2.99 and 45% for books below $2.99
Self-publishing can be a good option for authors who want: Greater control over their book, A
faster timeline, and More promotional support.

Podcasts

A podcast is a digital medium consisting of audio (or video) episodes that relate to a specific
theme. The hosts of a podcast are referred to as "podcasters." While many forms of media
have barriers to entry, a podcast is simple to create. To get started, podcasters only need basic
equipment, like recording software and a microphone. Since podcasts aren't regulated,
anyone is free to record and share content.
Typically, podcasters will record and edit digital content and share it with an audience. They
can post on YouTube, publish audio files on a podcast hosting service (such as Apple
Podcasts, Google Podcasts, or Spotify), or share the podcast episode directly through their
website.
Once a podcast is released, it can attract an audience in several ways. Podcast directories
allow users to discover and subscribe to new podcasts. Since major search engines display
podcast episodes in search results, strong SEO (search engine optimization) can also help a
podcast find listeners.

You Tube Talk Series

A YouTube talk series is a collection of videos that are related to a particular topic or theme.
Some examples of You Tube Talk Series are:
 • Talk Series: 76th Emmy Awards: A video on YouTube that shows the Daily Show
team accepting the Emmy for Outstanding Talk Series at the 76th Emmy Awards
• Learning to Talk Series: A series of videos that includes animations, stock footage,
and video clips, and provides advice and tips on communication development
• The Talk Show Channel: A YouTube channel that features talk shows
You can also create your own talk show on YouTube using a service like Talk Show Pro. This
service allows you to record, edit, and distribute your video content from home or the office,
without the need for expensive equipment or software

Gaming Apps

A gaming app is a mobile, web, or desktop application that allows users to play games and
interact with each other. Gaming apps can be free or paid, and can offer a wide range of
gaming experiences, from casual to complex.
Gaming apps may also include features for managing the game and interacting with friends.
Games are often categorized as either casual games or immersive, engaging games.
Here are some types of gaming apps:
• Casual games: Popular on mobile devices and social media, these games
include Solitaire, Candy Crush, and Bejeweled
• Immersive games: These games use virtual reality technologies to create an
immersive experience, and include games like Minecraft, World of Warcraft, and
Fortnite
• Betting apps: These apps allow users to participate in sports betting or legal
sports gambling
• Adventure games: These games focus on entertainment and engagement, and
include challenges, puzzles, and mysteries

• Arcade games: These games focus on gameplay rather than visual content,
and include simple games, challenges, and short playtimes
• Role-playing games: These games are complex and immersive, and include long
storylines, characters, and backgrounds
• Puzzle games: These games are designed to help players solve problems
• Card games: These games are designed to take up minimal storage space on
mobile phones
• Strategy games: These games allow players to think strategically and plan to win

Effective ways of Story-telling in new Media

Storytelling can be an effective tool to increase brand awareness, reach new audiences, and
attract more followers. It can also be used to promote a product, educate an audience, or build
a personal brand.
Here are some ways to tell an effective story in new media:
• Understand your audience: Research your audience to create relatable content.
You can gather feedback, conduct surveys, or use social media metrics.
• Use multimedia: Incorporate images, audio, and video to engage
your audience. Studies show that visuals are more effective than
words.
• Be consistent: Tell your brand story consistently across all of your marketing efforts,
including your social media posts and website copy.
• Create memorable experiences: Stories have a unique structure that helps
people process and retain information.

• Use user-generated content: User-generated content (UGC) can help bring

your community closer together and create a sense of belonging.
• Develop personas: Personas can help you create your story and see how you're
telling it.
• Use social media features: Use social media features like stories, reels, IGTV, and
images to create story series.
• Have a clear purpose: Your story should have a clear purpose or message.
• Include a call to action: Include a call to action or reflection in your story.
Module 3
Digital Media and Social Impact

Impact of Social Media on Socio-Political conditions

Social media profoundly influences social and political conditions globally, with several key
effects:

1. Information Dissemination: It enables rapid news sharing and provides diverse

perspectives, facilitating discussions often missing in traditional media.
2. Political Mobilization: Platforms have seen to be crucial for organizing protests and
grassroot level campaigning, engaging younger voters in political processes. The
general public’s opinions regarding issues of global and national importance are
greatly shaped by different versions of those issues depicted on social media,
3. Public Discourse: Citizens can directly interact with politicians, enhancing
accountability.
4. Misinformation: Social media is a major channel for spreading false information and
propaganda, which can undermine democracy.
5. Social Movements: It connects activists globally, fostering solidarity on issues like
climate change and facilitating viral campaigns for social change.
6. Regulatory Challenges: Governments may impose censorship and surveillance to
control narratives, impacting free speech.
7. Impact on Elections: Candidates use targeted social media strategies, which can
influence outcomes and spread voter misinformation.
8. Cultural Shifts: Social media amplifies marginalized voices and engages younger
generations in shaping political and cultural landscapes.

In summary, social media has both positive and negative implications for democracy and
social justice, posing challenges that need careful management.

Activity: Find out different versions of same news events found on the internet.

Online Celebrity Culture

Celebrity culture on social media refers to the way celebrities interact with their fans
and how their personas are constructed and maintained online. Here are some key aspects:

1. Accessibility and Interaction

• Direct Communication: Social media allows celebrities to communicate directly

with fans, breaking down traditional barriers.
• Engagement: Fans can comment, like, and share content, fostering a sense
of community and connection.
2. Influence and Branding
 • Personal Branding: Celebrities curate their online personas, often blending personal
and professional aspects to create a relatable image.
• Endorsements: Many use their platforms for advertising products, influencing
consumer behaviour and trends.

3. Content Creation

• Diverse Formats: Celebrities share various content types, including photos, videos,
and live streams, which keeps fans engaged and entertained.
• Behind-the-Scenes Access: Followers often get a glimpse into their lives, enhancing
the connection and investment in their stories.

4. Public Perception

• Cult of Personality: Social media can amplify the celebrity’s image, sometimes
leading to an idealized version of their life.
• Scrutiny and Criticism: Celebrities are constantly under public scrutiny, which can
lead to both positive and negative feedback.

5. Impact on Popular Culture

• Trendsetting: Celebrities often set trends in fashion, lifestyle, and social issues,
impacting wider cultural movements.
• Social Issues: Many use their platforms to advocate for causes, influencing public
discourse on important topics.

6. Mental Health and Well-being

• Pressure and Expectations: The constant need for validation and engagement can
impact celebrities' mental health.
• Fan Behavior: Intense fandom can lead to unhealthy behaviors, including obsession
and harassment. Also, the ideal lifestyles and luxuries shown through social media
become yardsticks of self-assessment for followers, creating dissatisfaction in real
life.

Celebrity culture on social media is a dynamic phenomenon that shapes how we perceive
fame, influence, and identity. It creates a unique blend of admiration, accessibility, and
scrutiny, profoundly impacting both celebrities and their audiences.

Activity: Let students discuss their favourite popular figures with reference to their online
presence.

Ethical Online Behaviour

Ethical online behavior encompasses principles and practices that promote respect,
integrity, and responsibility in digital interactions. Here are some key aspects:
1. Respect for Others
 • Kindness and Courtesy: Engage with others in a polite and respectful manner,
avoiding harassment or bullying.
• Diverse Perspectives: Acknowledge and respect differing opinions, fostering healthy
discussions.

2. Honesty and Transparency

• Authenticity: Share truthful information and be honest about your identity

and intentions online.
• Disclose Conflicts of Interest: If promoting products or services, be transparent
about sponsorships or affiliations.

3. Privacy and Security

• Protect Personal Information: Respect others' privacy by not sharing their personal
information without consent. Be mindful of what you share about yourself as it
may be used for cyber frauds, scams or manipulation.
• Secure Online Practices: Use strong passwords and be cautious about sharing
sensitive data.

4. Intellectual Property

• Respect Copyrights: Give credit to original creators and avoid plagiarism by seeking
permission to use their work.
• Creative Commons: Understand and utilize licenses that allow sharing while
respecting the creator’s rights.

5. Responsible Sharing

• Fact-Checking: Verify the accuracy of information before sharing it, especially on

social media.
• Consider Impact: Think about how your posts may affect others and avoid sharing
harmful or misleading content.

6. Digital Footprint Awareness

• Mind Your Presence: Be aware that your online actions contribute to your digital
footprint, which can impact future opportunities.
• Long-Term Considerations: Consider how your online behavior may be perceived
in the future.

7. Accountability

• Own Your Actions: Take responsibility for what you post and how you interact
online.
• Apologize and Learn: If you make a mistake, acknowledge it, apologize, and learn
from the experience.
 Ethical online behavior is essential for creating a safe and respectful digital environment.
By adhering to these principles, individuals can contribute positively to online communities
and foster constructive interactions.

Online Abuse

Online abuse encompasses various harmful behaviors that occur in digital spaces. Here are
some common types:

1. Cyberbullying

• Harassment: Targeting individuals with aggressive messages, bodyshaming, insults,

or threats.
• Doxxing: Publicly revealing personal information about someone to intimidate
or harm them.
• Defamation and Spreading Misinformation: Using expressive freedom
intentionally to bring someone under a bad light or tarnish someone’s image.
Manipulating information for desired results or fabricating information.

2. Trolling

• Provocative Behavior: Deliberately posting inflammatory or off-topic comments to

provoke reactions and disrupt conversations.

3. Sextortion

• Coercion: Threatening to share intimate images or information unless the

victim provides further explicit content or money.

4. Stalking

• Digital Stalking: Using online tools to track or monitor someone's activities, often
involving persistent unwanted contact.

5. Impersonation

• Fake Accounts: Creating profiles that mimic someone else to deceive others,
spread misinformation, or damage the victim’s reputation.

6. Hate Speech

• Discrimination: Posting comments that promote violence or prejudice against

individuals or groups based on characteristics like race, gender, or sexual
orientation.
7. Harassment
 • Unwanted Communication: Sending repetitive, unsolicited messages that are
threatening, abusive, or otherwise distressing.
• Use of Abusive Language: Insulting people or using improper language in
interactions.

8. Phishing

• Fraudulent Schemes: Attempting to trick individuals into providing personal or

financial information through deceptive emails or websites.

9. Grooming

• Exploitation: Establishing a relationship with a minor online for the purpose of

sexual exploitation.

10. Doxxing

• Public Disclosure: Publishing private information (like addresses or phone numbers)

to harass or threaten an individual.

Online abuse can take many forms, often targeting vulnerable individuals and causing
significant emotional and psychological harm. Awareness and reporting mechanisms are
crucial in combating these behaviors and creating safer digital spaces. In india, one can seek
assistance by calling 1930 in case of online abuse or cybercrimes.

Safe Online Practices

Safe online practices are essential for protecting your personal information and maintaining a
secure digital presence. Here are some key strategies:

1. Use Strong Passwords

• Complexity: Create passwords that include a mix of letters, numbers, and

special characters.
• Unique Passwords: Use different passwords for different accounts to minimize risk.

2. Enable Two-Factor Authentication (2FA)

• Extra Layer of Security: Activate 2FA on accounts when available, requiring a

second form of verification in addition to your password.

3. Be Cautious with Personal Information

• Limit Sharing: Avoid sharing sensitive information like your address, phone number,
or financial details on social media or unfamiliar websites.

4. Be Wary of Phishing Scams

 • Check URLs: Verify the authenticity of emails and links before clicking; look for
misspellings or unusual domain names.
• Do Not Share Credentials: Never provide your login details in response to
unsolicited requests.

5. Use Secure Connections

• HTTPS: Ensure the websites you visit use HTTPS for secure communication.
• Public Wi-Fi Precautions: Avoid accessing sensitive accounts or information on
public Wi-Fi networks; use a VPN if necessary.

6. Regularly Update Software

• Keep Devices Updated: Ensure your operating system, apps, and antivirus software
are up to date to protect against vulnerabilities.

7. Be Mindful of Downloads

• Source Verification: Only download files or apps from trusted sources to avoid
malware.
• Scan for Viruses: Use antivirus software to scan files before opening them.

8. Limit Social Media Exposure

• Privacy Settings: Review and adjust privacy settings on social media platforms to
control who can see your information.
• Think Before Posting: Consider the potential consequences of sharing posts, photos,
and locations.

9. Educate Yourself About Online Risks

• Stay Informed: Keep up with the latest trends in online safety and cybersecurity
threats.

10. Know How to Report Abuse

• Utilize Reporting Tools: Familiarize yourself with reporting features on social media
and other platforms to report harassment or abusive content.
https://cybercrime.gov.in offers all kinds of assistance including guidance, reporting,
and resolution of cyber issues.

Implementing these safe online practices helps protect your personal information and
enhances your overall online security. Staying vigilant and informed is key to navigating the
digital landscape safely.

Activity: Ask students to identify instances of abusive or improper language use on online
platforms. Ask them to come up with polite ways in which disagreements can be
communicated on online platforms.
 Digital Detox

Excessive online time can lead to a variety of problems that impact physical, mental,
and social well-being. Here are some key issues associated with too much screen time:

1. Mental Health Issues

• Anxiety and Depression: Increased online activity, especially on social media, can
contribute to feelings of inadequacy and isolation. Glorified versions of life on social
media leave users dissatisfied with their everyday life.
• Stress: Constant notifications and the pressure to respond can heighten stress levels.

2. Sleep Disturbances

• Poor Sleep Quality: Excessive screen time, particularly before bed, can disrupt sleep
patterns and lead to insomnia.
• Blue Light Exposure: Exposure to blue light from screens interferes with melatonin
production, affecting sleep quality.

3. Physical Health Problems

• Sedentary Lifestyle: Prolonged sitting and reduced physical activity can lead to
weight gain and associated health issues.
• Eye Strain: Extended screen use can cause digital eye strain, leading to discomfort,
headaches, and vision problems.

4. Cognitive Effects

• Reduced Attention Span: Constant multitasking and distractions can impair focus
and concentration.
• Decreased Memory Retention: Heavy reliance on digital devices can affect
information retention and critical thinking skills.

5. Social Isolation

• Weakened Relationships: Spending more time online can reduce face-to-face

interactions, leading to feelings of loneliness.
• Poor Communication Skills: Over-reliance on digital communication may hinder the
development of interpersonal skills.

6. Addiction and Compulsive Behavior

• Internet Addiction: Some individuals may develop compulsive behaviors,

prioritizing online activities over daily responsibilities.
• Gaming Addiction: Excessive gaming can lead to social withdrawal and neglect of
real-life obligations.
7. Negative Impact on Productivity

• Procrastination: Increased online time can lead to distractions that interfere

with work or academic responsibilities.
• Quality of Work: Multitasking and constant interruptions can reduce the quality of
output.

Excessive online time can lead to a range of mental, physical, and social issues,
underscoring the importance of finding a balance between digital and real-life interactions.
Setting boundaries and practicing mindful technology use can help mitigate these problems.

A digital detox involves taking a deliberate break from digital devices and online activities to enhance
mental well-being and quality of life. Key benefits include:

1. Reduced Stress and Anxiety: Less pressure from constant notifications and information
overload.

2. Improved Focus and Productivity: Fewer distractions lead to better concentration and
creativity.

3. Enhanced Relationships: More meaningful face-to-face interactions and active listening.

4. Better Sleep Quality: Limiting screen time, especially before bed, improves sleep patterns
and reduces blue light exposure.

5. Encouraged Mindfulness: Promotes present-moment awareness and reconnects

individuals with nature.

6. Boosted Mental Health: Reduces feelings of inadequacy from social media and allows for
self-reflection.

7. Encouraged Hobbies and Interests: Inspires new activities and increased physical
engagement.

Overall, a digital detox helps individuals regain control over technology use and fosters reconnection
with themselves and their surroundings. You can check how much time you spend on your phones by
going to the Digital Wellbeing or Screen Time settings of your phone. Becoming aware of how

dependent you are on your phone or device is the first step towards Digital Detox.

Here are effective ways to implement a digital detox:

1. Set Specific Goals: Define how long your detox will last and clarify what you hope to
achieve (e.g., reducing stress).
2. Create Tech-Free Zones: Designate areas in your home where devices are not
allowed, especially during meals.
3. Schedule Device-Free Time: Set aside daily hours to unplug or dedicate entire days
to being offline.
4. Engage in Offline Activities: Rediscover hobbies like reading or exercise to connect
with your body and mind.
5. Limit Social Media Use: Unfollow distracting accounts and set time limits on usage.
6. Practice Mindfulness: Incorporate meditation and journaling to enhance self-
awareness and relaxation.
 7. Reconnect with Nature: Spend time outdoors through activities like hiking or
consider a digital detox retreat.
8. Use Technology Mindfully: Engage with devices purposefully and turn off non-
essential notifications.
9. Involve Others: Encourage friends or family to join your detox for mutual support
and accountability.
10. Reflect on Your Experience: Evaluate the impact of your detox and consider long-
term boundaries for healthier technology use.

A digital detox can greatly enhance mental and emotional well-being, promoting a more
balanced and fulfilling life by fostering offline connections.

(The assistance offered by Open Ai’s ChatGpt in the preparation of this material, in providing information and condensing
the material is duly acknowledged.)
 MODULE 4

New Media and its Commercial Dimensions

Informational capitalism

There is a current political, economic, and cultural trend to view personal data as a
commodity that can be traded on the "information market.".
The economic system that is predicated on the creation and dissemination of information is
referred to as information capitalism, or knowledge capitalism. It is distinguished by the
social, economic, and political transformations brought about by globalization and the quick
advancement of information and communications technologies (ICTs).
The commodification of information, ownership, labour, and audience data extraction and
surveillance are some of the main areas of focus in information capitalism.

Information capitalism has several issues, such as exploitation, data collection and
surveillance practices, and Surveillance capitalism.
Information capitalism is closely related to the concept of the information economy, which is
an economy where information is valued as a capital good and there's an increased emphasis
on informational activities. The media industry is an example of an information economy.

Democratisation of Media

In order to create a mass media system that informs and empowers every member of society
and upholds democratic values, media democracy, a democratic approach to media studies,
calls for reforming the mass media to strengthen public service broadcasting and encourage
participation in alternative media and citizen journalism.
Media democracy is a social movement as well as a theory. It opposes media ownership
concentration and supports a range of viewpoints and voices within the news industry.

The goals of media democracy are the dissemination of knowledge to advance democratic
values and the empowerment of individual citizens. Furthermore, the strategy contends that
the media system ought to be democratic in the manner it is constructed, eschewing private
ownership and intense regulations. It emphasizes the fact that media has the power to reach a
large audience and plays a pivotal role in shaping culture. It asserts that media should play an
important role in promoting democracy and in order to do so it itself should be democratic. It
also gives out the message to the public that media should be evaluated critically, especially
in times of increased corporate domination.
In the book Manufacturing Consent: The Political Economy of the Mass Media,
authors Edward S. Herman and Noam Chomsky outline the model of media, which states that
the private interests in control of media outlets shape news and information before it is
disseminated to the public through the use of five information filters.
Media democracy gives people the right to participate in media. It extends the media's
relationship to the public sphere, where the information gathered can be viewed and shared
by the people. The relationship of media democracy and the public sphere extends to various
types of media, such as social media and mainstream media, in order for people to
 communicate with one another through digital media and share the information they want to
publish to the public.
Media democracy is grounded in creating a mass media system that favours a diversity of
voices and opinions over ownership or consolidation, in an effort to eliminate bias in
coverage. This, in turn, leads to the informed public debate necessary for a democratic state.
The ability to comprehend and scrutinize the connection between press and democracy is
important because media has the power to tell a society's stories and thereby influence
thinking, beliefs and behaviour.
Media democracy advocates for:
• Replacing the current corporate media model with one that operates
democratically, rather than for profit;
• Strengthening public service broadcasting;
• Incorporating the use of alternative media into the larger discourse;
• Increasing the role of citizen journalism;
• Turning a passive audience into active participants;
• Using the mass media to promote democratic ideals.
The competitive structure of the mass media landscape stands in opposition to democratic
ideals since the competition of the marketplace affects how stories are framed and transmitted
to the public. This can "hamper the ability of the democratic system to solve internal social
problems as well as international conflicts in an optimal way."

Business Model of Social Media

The social business model is use of social media tools and social networking behavioural
standards by businesses for communication with customers, suppliers, and others.
Social media business models can include:
1. Social ecommerce: Users can buy and sell products on an app-based online
marketplace. - Platforms like Instagram and Facebook have integrated
shopping
features, allowing businesses to sell products directly through social media. Users
can browse and purchase products without leaving the platform, often with the social
media site taking a commission on sales.
2. User-generated content: The two-way conversation between users can be
the product itself.

3. Content Monetization: Platforms like YouTube and TikTok share ad revenue with
creators based on views and engagement with their content.
Creators can earn money through ads placed on their videos, sponsorships, and
viewer donations.
4. Affiliate marketing: Users, also known as influencers, promote products or services
to their followers on the app and receive a commission. Influencers and content
 creators use social media to promote products and earn commissions on sales
generated through their referral links. Brands provide unique links or discount codes
to influencers, who then share these with their followers.
5. Subscription-based content: Users pay a subscription to access content. - Some
platforms, like Patreon or OnlyFans, Netflix, Amazon Prime etc operate on a
subscription basis where users pay for exclusive content or features.
Creators or influencers charge subscribers a monthly fee for access to premium
content, direct interaction, or other benefits.
6. Freemium: A basic version of the app is free to use, while premium features are
available to paying users. Platforms like LinkedIn and Spotify offer basic services
for free while charging for premium features or subscriptions.
Users can access standard features without payment but must subscribe to access
advanced features (e.g., enhanced networking tools or ad-free experiences)..
7. Attention economy: Platforms are free, but sell user attention to brands,
governments, and non-governmental organizations. While not a direct
revenue
model, some platforms monetize user data by providing insights and analytics to
businesses.
Companies can purchase aggregated data to understand user behaviour and
preferences, which can inform marketing strategies.

8. Event Promotion and Ticket Sales:

Some platforms allow users to organize and promote events, generating revenue
through ticket sales.
Platforms may charge a fee for event promotion or take a percentage of ticket sales.

Conclusion

These business models can be mixed and matched, with many platforms employing multiple
strategies to maximize revenue. The choice of model often depends on the target audience,
the type of content shared, and the overall goals of the platform.

Commodification of Media/Media Industry

Personal information through Social Networking Sites (SNS's), such as music purchases, how
we identify, and user profiles are aggregated and sold to corporations and businesses for
micro targeting, advertising and marketing. Social Media Influencers are also recent
examples of self-commodification.
In the media industry, users and media are commodified in a number of ways, including:

• Social media users

Users' personal information, such as music purchases, user profiles, and how they identify, is
collected and sold to businesses and corporations for advertising, marketing, and micro-
targeting.
 • Social media influencers
Social media influencers commodify themselves by sharing their thoughts, experiences,
advice, and online journals. They then make money through advertorials, blog subscriptions,
self-branding, and selling books.

• Audience commodification
This business model views users as a source of tradeable assets in business-to-business
markets. The goal is to persuade customers to perform actions that favour the service
provider, such as responding to advertising clips.

• Commodification of news
News is treated as a commodity, or a good or service that is designed to earn a profit when
sold in a market.

• Digital content
Digital content has become corrupted by algorithms, and functions more as a means to an end
than other types of content.

Users Privacy/Copy-right issues

Cyber bullying, trolling and shaming are very common privacy issues these days. But it also
depends on how the users publish and manage their content on social media. Many platforms
are providing advanced tools to help the users navigate these issues. Yet, social media can
impact user privacy and copyright in a number of ways, including:

• Copyright infringement
Social media makes it easy for people to share copyrighted material without permission,
which can have a significant financial impact on the entertainment industry.

• Privacy risks
Social media platforms encourage users to share personal information, which can lead to
privacy risks. Users may not be aware of the risks involved in oversharing, and their data can
be collected, analysed, and monetized.

• Location tracking
Social media platforms can gather location information through check-ins or geotagging,
which can raise privacy concerns. Location data can be used to identify a user's home or
place of employment, track their travels, and more.
To address these issues, users and content creators can:
• Register copyrights: Registering copyrights can help protect intellectual property.
• Watermark media: Watermarking media can help protect intellectual property.
• Report infringement: Use available tools to report infringement.
• Understand copyright law: Understand copyright law and how to enforce rights on
social media platforms.
 • Monitor social media: Regularly monitor social media for instances of copyright
violations.
• Use fair use exceptions: Use fair use exceptions to permit limited use of copyrighted
works without permission.
• Obtain permission: If use of a work does not fall under fair use, obtain permission
from the copyright owner before sharing or posting the work.

Virality

Virality is a term that refers to a new video, tool, app, content, product, software program,
game or online-based item that generates thousands or millions of views from people who use
such products or services. The name comes from its likeness to a virus, referring to the idea's
or content's fast spread.

Corporate Sites

A corporate site, or also said institutional site, is an Internet site which presents a company,
an institution or an organization to all its audiences and not only to its customers or users.
Thus, the corporate site is classically distinguished from the commercial site intended only
for customers or users. On the content side, the corporate site endeavours to promote the
company (its history, values, commitments, purpose, governance, Human Resources policy,
etc.) and not directly its products or solutions.
A company's profile reflects its personality and contains information about its products or
services. The purpose is to familiarize visitors with a business, product, or service, giving
them confidence that the company is legitimate. The website's main feature is to combine
strong copy and memorable visual content.

Building Your Personal Brand

Building a personal brand is the process of defining and promoting who you are, what you
stand for, and how you express your values. It's a way to communicate your unique identity
and value to others, similar to how a company's brand helps it stand out from competitors.
Here are some reasons why building a personal brand can be important:

• Improve your confidence

A strong personal brand can help you feel more confident about yourself.

• Open up new opportunities

A personal brand can help you attract new opportunities, such as clients or employers.

• Better understand yourself

The process of building a personal brand can help you uncover and celebrate your unique
abilities.

• Differentiate yourself
A personal brand can help you differentiate yourself from your competitors and attract a
community of loyal followers.
Strategies to build a strong brand on social media

Here are some tips for building your personal brand:

• Establish your audience: Consider who you want to reach when you post on social
media.
• Decide how to brand yourself: Consider your tagline, website, and other content
that goes with your social media profiles.
• Network: Connect with other professionals and be active in sharing, promoting,
and creating content.
• Get feedback: Be open to feedback from peers and use it to develop your brand.
• Be yourself: Avoid being defined by labels and stereotypes. Instead, speak your mind
and share your unique perspective on issues.
• Set goals for personal branding: Decide what you want to be known for and what
you’ll need to do to establish your identity.
• Audit your existing brand: Search for yourself online and find out what people are
already saying about you. This will show you how much you need to change.

• Create a consistent strategy: Determine how you’re going to showcase your identity
(blogging, interviews, social media) and stick to a regular schedule.
It’s not about presenting a fake identity or creating a character for yourself. Successful
personal branding is about curating certain parts of your personality to present yourself to
your network in the best possible light.

Some of the benefits of personal branding:

A personal branding strategy is a way for ambitious people to improve their reputation online.
However, personal branding also leads to:
• Improved credibility as you showcase your skills and highlight your knowledge.
• Differentiation as you explain what sets you apart from other people in your space
and demonstrate your specialties.
• A lasting impression – the more you show off your personal brand, the more
you’ll give people a way to remember you.
• Connection to your target audience as they begin to understand who you are and
what you stand for.
Importantly, personal branding often involves communicating your identity to the right
people. Not everyone will resonate with your personal brand, so it’s important to decide who
you want to connect with before you start your branding process.
Effective use of Digital media in Workspace

Digital media can be used effectively in the workplace to improve communication,

engagement, and productivity. Here are some ways to use digital media effectively in the
workplace:

• Social media
Social media can help employees connect with each other and share ideas, which can lead to
better collaboration. However, employers should be strategic about when to allow social
media in the office. To manage social media use, employees should include a disclaimer on
their personal social media pages that their opinions do not necessarily reflect the company's
point of view. Employers can also use monitoring software to check on employee social
media activity.

• Digital communication
Digital communication can be fast, efficient, and convenient. It can help employees focus on
more important tasks by making communication easy and accessible.

• Photography
Photography can be used to create engaging visual stories for followers and media users. It
can help followers relate to a brand's values and demonstrate the quality of its products or
services.

• Digital workplace technologies

Digital workplace technologies can be customized to suit a company's needs. They can help
optimize communication, improve employee engagement, and increase productivity.
Material courtesy: https://www.vantagecircle.com/en/blog/social-media-in-the-workplace

Career Opportunities in New media/ Digital media

Digital Journalism

Build the skills you need to share news and knowledge for a career in:
• Online content development
• Audio/video editing
• Public relations and communications

Digital Media Production

Learn to create dynamic content for a career in:

• Digital media production
• Digital audio/video engineering
• Digital media integration
Digital Marketing

Develop expertise on connecting with the marketplace for a career in:

• Web design
• New media sales
• Internet marketing
The above mentioned are a few broader areas of career opportunities while some of the
careers in digital media also include:
• Social media specialist or manager
• Public relations, marketing or advertising professional
• Search marketing specialist
• Multimedia developer or designer
• Visual journalist
• Digital entrepreneur or consultant
• Content strategy specialist, manager, strategist
• Content developer
• Content marketing
• Editor
• Digital production
• Digital content creator or manager

Material courtesy: https://coloradomtn.edu/programs/digital-

media/careers/
 Fundamentals of intellectual Property Rights

Intellectual property rights (IPR) protect creative works, allowing creators to control and
benefit from their inventions. Key fundamentals include:
Types of IP: Copyright (for original works), trademarks (for brands), patents (for inventions),
and trade secrets (for confidential info).
Copyright Basics: Protects original works with a duration of life plus 70 years, automatic
upon creation but with benefits to registration.
Rights Granted: Includes reproduction, distribution, derivative works, and public
performance.
Fair Use: Allows limited use of copyrighted material for purposes like criticism and
education.
Infringement: Unauthorized use can lead to legal action; owners can seek remedies.
Licensing and Transfer: Copyright can be licensed or transferred to others.
Emerging Issues: Digital media and AI raise new challenges for copyright enforcement and
ownership.
Understanding these concepts helps navigate the complexities of IPR and copyright.

Fundamentals of Digital Marketing

Digital marketing involves various strategies to promote products or services through digital
channels. Key fundamentals include:
Understanding Your Audience: Conduct market research to identify target demographics and
create buyer personas.
Content Marketing: Develop engaging, relevant content and share insights through blogging
to attract visitors.
Search Engine Optimization (SEO): Conduct keyword research and optimize website content
to improve search rankings.
Social Media Marketing: Select appropriate platforms and engage with followers to build a
community.
Email Marketing: Send newsletters and tailor messages to specific segments for better
engagement.
Pay-Per-Click (PPC) Advertising: Use paid ads on Google and social media to reach targeted
audiences.
Analytics and Measurement: Monitor traffic and user behavior with tools like Google
Analytics, and measure success through KPIs.
Mobile Optimization: Ensure a mobile-friendly website and consider mobile-specific ad
campaigns.
 23

Conversion Rate Optimization (CRO): Use A/B testing and improve user experience to
enhance engagement.
Continuous Learning and Adaptation: Stay updated on trends and refine strategies based on
feedback.
Mastering these fundamentals helps create an effective digital marketing strategy that
engages your target audience.
Activity: Attempt a case study of your favourite brand’s online presence.
Create a plan to start a brand on your own, find a name, tagline, description, promotion
methods etc.

(The assistance offered by Open Ai’s ChatGpt in the preparation of this material, in providing information and condensing the material is duly acknowledged.)
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