Spelling is highly overrated, says 'txtpert'
Published on 13 June, 2012
If u can understand dis sentence, u mite just b contributing 2 da downfall of da English language as we no it.
That's the verdict of CQUniversity researcher Dr Michael Cowling, who claims the rise of the ‘txt' generation is making spelling a dying art...
Dr Cowling says the meaning of words, rather than the spelling of words, is far more important to today's digital natives - and academics need to start accepting that.
"In the world of texting and instant messaging, connectedness and a speedy reply mean far more than perfect spelling," he says.
"Spelling is overrated. As long as the meaning of something is clear, why does it matter how we spell the words?
"This is especially true for the English language. Different letters have different sounds depending on how they are used, and a single sound can be made by different letters - which is perfect for ‘txt' speak.
"Digital natives are used to ‘txt' speak when talking to each other in numerous situations, a universal language amongst Generation Y.
"Yet it is the digital dinosaurs who will still oppose ‘txt' speak with the ideal that use of language is a reflection of attitude, capabilities and skill."
Dr Cowling also attributes the emergence of spelling- and grammar- checking technologies with bringing about the trend.
"In a world where technology is everywhere and access to spelling and grammar checking is so common, it's easy to see why many people have offloaded these skills to a computer," he says.
"Today, computing is a part of our everyday lives and in 10 to 20 years, every new person on the planet will be a digital native, somebody who has grown up with technology and never known a world where the internet wasn't at their fingertips.
"In this world, it will be more important to be connected than to be well-spelled. Spelling is an art form that the digital native just doesn't need any more and as academics we need to start accepting this."
Dr Cowling is currently working with colleague Jeremy Novak from Southern Cross University on using technology to provide feedback in classrooms. Results from their research will be published later this year.
Most popular ‘txt' phrases
LOL - laughing out loud
OMG - oh my God
ROFL - rolling on the floor laughing
BRB - (I'll) be right back
SMH - shaking my head