The Impact of Computer Mediated Communication on Language Behavior Between Monolinguals and Bilinguals

Abstract

The study aims to review Computer Mediated Communication (CMC) and explore its impact on evolution of language, specifically English. CMC can be divided into Synchronous and asynchronous communication, this study will focus on the latter division, investigating user behavior including use of punctuation, abbreviation and spelling. The idea is to collect data from a number of native English speakers and bilinguals by composing a set of questions to look for patterns and differences. Much scholarship has been done on CMC and both of its categories, but an area that explores the difference between monolinguals and bilinguals is yet to be explored, especially when the global language, English, is evolving due to its common use in different regions and cultures. American English, for example, has evolved differently than British English, and they both differ from Indian English. This study aims to explore the different paths a language can evolve by examining language behavior influenced by CMC between native English speakers and foreign English speakers by drawing out the different patterns of language use (punctuation, abbreviation, and spelling).