Unit 3

 Link to Video: Unit 3 - Syracuse University Videos 

Sources: 

Amberstudent. (2025, January 28). Gen Z and technology: How the future of tech is changing: Amber. RSS. https://amberstudent.com/blog/post/how-gen-z-is-shaping-the-future-of-technology

Genxer.ca. (2023, August 12). Generation X and Technology Evolution. genxer.ca. https://genxer.ca/generation-x-and-technology-evolution/

Microsoft. (n.d.). Bing. https://www.bing.com/videos/riverview/relatedvideo?q=video%2Bof%2Belectronic%2Btimeline&mid=E7CC6A72C047C4533E49E7CC6A72C047C4533E49&FORM=VIRE

Make your day. TikTok. (n.d.). https://www.tiktok.com/@keegankevesdy/video/7318254152415579434

Microsoft. (n.d.-a). Bing. https://www.bing.com/videos/riverview/relatedvideo?q=clip%2Bfrom%2Bnews%2Bfrom%2B1960&&view=riverview&mmscn=mtsc&mid=48F310687E231D174A4C48F310687E231D174A4C&aps=66&FORM=VMSOVR

Lincoln, J. (2015, November 9). Millennial Marketing, My Research, Tips & Facts for Success. Ignite Visibility. https://ignitevisibility.com/millennial-marketing-research-tips-facts/

Vogels, E. A. (2022, August 10). Teens, social media and technology 2022. Pew Research Center. https://www.pewresearch.org/internet/2022/08/10/teens-social-media-and-technology-2022/

Scribd. (n.d.). Generation Z - A new lifeline a systematic literature review. Scribd. https://www.scribd.com/document/720537458/Generation-Z-A-New-Lifeline-A-Systematic-Literature-Review

Movie & TV reviews for parents. (n.d.). The Common Sense Census: Media use by tweens and teens, 2021. Common Sense Media. https://www.commonsensemedia.org/research/the-common-sense-census-media-use-by-tweens-and-teens-2021

Microsoft. (n.d.-a). Bing. https://www.bing.com/videos/riverview/relatedvideo?&q=drybar%2Bcomedy%2Bgenz%2Btiktok&mid=13EDB1D0AD43F508671213EDB1D0AD43F5086712&FORM=VRDGAR

Vogels, E. A. (2019, September 9). Millennials stand out for their technology use, but older generations also Embrace Digital Life. Pew Research Center. https://www.pewresearch.org/short-reads/2019/09/09/us-generations-technology-use/

Gen Z and telephone phobia: Why texting Beats talking every time: Culture. Woke Waves Magazine. (n.d.). https://www.wokewaves.com/posts/gen-z-and-telephone-phobia-why-texting-beats-talking-every-time

Unit 3 Reflection

     In creating my Unit 3 project, a Canva video titled From Boomers to Zoomers: How Each Generation Adapts to Technology and Writing, was an exciting opportunity to reimagine my Unit 2 research into a more engaging, multimodal format for a public audience. In this reflection, I will walk through how and why I chose this genre, the decisions I made to reach my projected audience, and how I engaged with feedback throughout the semester and the improvements I made to my blog overall to better align with the expectations of this assignment and the audience I was trying to reach. 

    When I began brainstorming possible formats for my Unit 3 project, I knew I wanted something more dynamic. Since my Unit 2 project explored how different generations—Boomers, Gen X, Millennials, and Gen Z—have adapted their writing communication practices in response to changing technologies, it made sense to choose a genre that reflected these changes. A video created in Canva, with audio narration, images, quotes, and animation, allowed me to mirror the very subject of my research: the evolution of communication.

    Specifically, this medium aligned well with my projected audience: college students, educators, and young professionals who are likely to engage with visual, easily digestible digital content. A video can be viewed quickly, shared easily, and offers multiple entry points through its blend of text, audio, and visual elements. Compared to a static document or slideshow, a Canva video allowed me to simulate scrolling through time — from typewriters to TikTok —and reflect on generational shifts in a compelling way. This decision was influenced by one of the core ideas in my Unit 2 project: that form follows function. Just as writing has evolved to fit new technologies, so too should my own rhetorical delivery. Another reason I gravitated toward a video format is that it mirrors how modern audiences —especially Gen Z and Millennials —consume content today. I wanted to respect their attention spans and offer something that felt modern, relevant, and accessible. Creating this video forced me to consider pacing, tone, and design aesthetics, all of which are crucial to keeping an online viewer engaged. I spent time with experimenting with transitions, timing quotes to match the audio, finding videos with music that felt upbeat but also set the tone for the video. These small decisions added to the overall polish of the final product and gave me a deeper appreciation for how much work goes into crafting even a short digital piece.

    I submitted my video on my blog through an embedded link, which allowed it to be played directly from the site. Before the video, I included a short cover paragraph that introduced the topic and clearly addressed the purpose and intended audience. My "pitch" to the audience was that this video offers a quick, insightful overview of how writing has transformed across generations and why that matters in our modern world, especially in education and professional contexts.

Here in the introductory paragraph, I stated:

    In this short video, you'll journey through the decades to see how writing has changed from Boomers to Zoomers. From pen pals and typewriters to text-speak and TikTok captions, each generation brings unique writing styles shaped by the tools of their time. If you're a teacher, student, or just curious about how technology influences communication, this video breaks it down in a fun, fast-paced way— with direct quotes, real-world examples, and some surprising insights.

    Ideally, I want my audience to not just watch the video but reflect on their own writing habits and assumptions about "good" or "bad" writing. I hope different educators might consider how generational writing expectations differ and how they can adapt their instruction to meet students where they are. I'd love if different generations saw themselves represented and began thinking more critically about the tools they use to write. Furthermore, and how each generation can become aware of the tactics they use and how it represents the world we live in today. In addition to educators, I also considered how this video could help individuals in different workplaces who often deal with intergenerational communication challenges. This video shows how each generation has different writing techniques within things like email etiquette or resume writing styles. My research showed how deeply ingrained our writing habits are in the tools we grew up using, and I believe this insight is not useful but actionable for teams striving to improve communication across generations.

    One piece of feedback that really stuck with me came from Lyndsey during my Unit 2 blog feedback. She stated, "For next time: I'd like to see you unpack/engage with your quotes even more—think about how you could use technology to really make your sources pop!"

    This comment definitely shaped how I approached the use of sources in my video. For Unit 3, I made the conscious effort to not just repeat the quotes but to animate them—literally. Another improvement I made based on feedback was adding more of my own voice— literally and figuratively. In earlier drafts of my project, I had a tendency to lean too much on research and not enough on personal reflection. In this video, I made sure my narration included thoughtful transitions, humor, and occasional rhetorical questions to engage the viewer directly. This made the piece feel more conversational and accessible while still grounded in academic insight.

    Overall, this project has helped me see how deeply interconnected form and content are—especially in the digital world. Writing a paper about generational writing styles was a thing, but turning it into a digital video forced me to practice what I preached. I had to make my own writing and arguments adapt to the medium, just as Boomers had to adjust to email and Gen Z had to learn when texting isn't appropriate.

    This experience also taught me about the power of remixing. The research didn't change, but the way I presented it did — and that made all the difference. I saw firsthand how packaging can either invite someone in or push them away. A dense essay might only reach a professor, but a sleek video could be shared with classmates, family members, or even on social media. In fact, I even shared my video with a few peers outside of class, and their positive reactions reaffirmed that I had successfully created something informative and engaging.

    This whole course has pushed me to think beyond the "academic essay" and into real-world elements—like clickable timelines or interviews with people from each generation. But for now I'm proud that I created something that could give people facts and entertain them at the same time. Whether someone watches it in a classroom or on their lunch break, I hope it gets them thinking about how we all write—and how writing continues to evolve with us. Looking ahead, I plan to keep using tools like Canva to present information.

Graphic Novels

     In the first 50 pages of Cultures of War in Graphic Novels, the authors explain how graphic novels (which are like comic books for older readers) can be used to tell powerful stories about war. The book says that most people only know about big wars like World War ll, but not as many people know about smaller or lesser-known wars. This book focuses on those kinds of stories and shows how graphic novels help bring them to life. 

Graphic novels are like a kind of technology because use both pictures and words to tell a story. This combination really helps people feel what's going on, especially in stories about violence, trauma, and how people remember war. One chapter in this book talks about wars in the Middle Ages using cool visuals, while another focuses on modern events like the War on Terror or the Bosnian War. The pictures in graphic novels often show how people truly feel on the inside, like when a character remembers something scary or sad from their past. 

Some of the stories even mix in real photos or documents to make it feel more real. That's another kind of technology—blending real-life stuff with drawings to help us understand what was is really like for the people who have lived through it.

Overall, these first chapters show how graphic novels are more than just comics—they're a smart, emotional way to teach people about war and help us understand its impact. 

Reddit

     In the Endless Thread podcast episode "Turning Hate on the Internet into Humor," the hosts talks about how some people deal with mean comments online by turning them into jokes. One of the people they speak with is Shirin Najafi, a writer who received hate mail after writing an article. Instead of getting upset, she made fun of the people who sent it by writing a funny piece called, "An Open Letter to the Men Who Told Me to Smile" on McSweeney's. Her humor has helped her to feel more in control and connect with others who have had the same experience. 

    They also talk about a subreddit called r/TwoXChromosomes, where women talk about their lives, often including times they've been treated unfairly. It's a space where people support each other and sometimes respond to serious things with humor to cope.

Another part of the episode mentions r/RoastMe, where people post pictures of themselves and invite others to roast them with jokes. It shows how people can take control of the joke and laugh at themselves, which can be really empowering.

Overall, this episode showed me that Reddit isn't just a place for arguments and negativity, but it can also be a good place where people use humor to fight back, support each other, and even make something good out of a bad situation. 

Unit 2 Reflection

 In writing our Unit 2 portfolio my focus was, "From Boomers to Zoomers: How Each Generation Adapts to Technology and Writing," I aimed to engage a broader audience interested in technology's developmental impact on communication, particularly in how different generations approach writing. My main audience included students, educators, and professionals who have experienced and are curious about these shifts. To make the topic relatable, I incorporated light humor and personal anecdotes such as, "There was once a time when 'tweeting' was strictly for birds and 'streaming' was something only rivers did." This choice not only made the introduction engaging for readers but also set the stage for discussion and how quickly technology transforms the communication and language we use daily. 

To ensure accessibility and engagement, I maintained a conversational tone throughout the piece while integrating well-researched historical context. For example, I noted that "the invention of the electric typewriter in the 1960s ultimately improved typing speed and made writing more approachable." This balance between factual information and personal reflection made the topic digestible for both academic and general readers. 

Challenging myself in researching this piece involved deep diving into generational studies, linguistic evolution, and technological advancements. The current conversation around this topic often focuses on how digital communication affects literacy and attention spans. While many discussions emphasize a decline in traditional writing skills due to digital tools, I explored both the positive and negative implications. My perspective evolved as I recognized that while writing styles are shifting, they are not necessarily deteriorating but adapting to new mediums.

The quality of available research on generational communication varies. While there are many scholarly articles on digital literacy, most discussions occur in opinion pieces and journalistic sources rather than peer-reviewed studies. More longitudinal studies on how early exposure to digital tools affects writing proficiency over time would be beneficial. Additionally, further research could explore how AI-driven writing assistance influences critical thinking and composition skills among younger generations.

Some of the primary research I gathered for this was just through my own observations and also feedback from my family, friends, and peers. It was helpful to gather information from different generations to provide richer insights from their own personal experiences with writing and technology. However, being able to gather more primary research from the Boomer generation would have been helpful rather than just using some of the stereotypes we all know. Regarding the pitch assignment, it definitely did cause some challenges. While it was easier to spark conversations and engagement with peers who actively used social media, it definitely was more difficult to reach older generations. While I did not receive direct responses from older professionals, I followed up by engaging in different articles. This helped me to ultimately understand how different demographics react to these topics and refine my approach. 

One of the key takeaways I gained from this project is the applicability of writing, research, and design methods to other academic and professional settings. I currently am a business major here at Syracuse and let's say I had to conduct a market analysis on consumer adaptation on a certain topic, I could apply similar research techniques I used throughout this project. This would include historical comparisons, generational behavior analysis, and the impact of digital tools on efficiency. This project ultimately helped me to think outside of the box and dive deeper into generational development. Additionally, this project has refined my ability to translate complex research into accessible writing, which is crucial in professional communication. Whether drafting reports, or presentations, the ability to engage different audiences effectively is an essential skill. 

In conclusion, "From Boomers to Zoomers" not only allowed me to explore an intriguing topic but also enhanced my research and communication skills. It challenged me to critically assess the ongoing conversation about digital literacy and also consider generational perspectives. The experience of pitching the piece and seeking engagement reinforced the importance of knowing one's audience and adjusting rhetorical choices accordingly. Altogether, the research methods and writing strategies I used and developed will be applicable in both the academic and professional contexts, making this project a valuable learning experience that I can use outside of the classroom. 

Unit 2 Portfolio

 From Boomers to Zoomers: How Each Generation Adapts to Technology and Writing

    There was once a time when 'tweeting' was strictly for birds and 'streaming' was something only rivers did. Today, we will be exploring the evolution of technology and its significant impact on how various generations interact and express themselves in writing. From Boomers to Generation Z (Zoomers), every generation has uniquely embraced technological progression, influencing their writing skills and communication styles. This post dives deep into these generational adaptions, tracing technological milestones and their impacts on writing practices. 

    Before we dive into each generation it's important to understand that the advancement of technology from the 1960s to the 2010s has significantly altered how we write and communicate. During the 1960s the invention of the electric typewriter ultimately improved typing speed and made writing more approachable, simplifying the document creation process. The invention of the typewriter ultimately paved the way for future writing technology and techniques.  By the 1990s, the internet and email became widely used by many, revolutionizing communication through immediate information exchange by introducing new writing formats. The 2000s marked the rise of specific social media sites like Bold and Six Degrees, encouraging concise and informal writing styles indicative of a cultural shift towards a more relaxed communication approach. In the 2010s, with the widespread use of smartphones coming into play, the use of messaging applications led to the popularity of emojis and GIFs, merging fun images with text and further changing written communications. 

Boomer Generation: 1946-1964

The Boomer generation has lived during a time when communication was primarily analog. For them, handwritten notes, typewriters, and rotary phones were standard usage throughout the beginning of their time. The arrival of the electric typewriter in the 1960s represented a major technological progression for this cohort. Nevertheless, writing has continued to be primarily a thoughtful and often formal endeavor. As personal computers started to gain traction in the late 1970s and early 1980s, Boomers encountered the hurdle of moving from typewriters to digital word processors. 

This transition ultimately necessitated that they acquire new skills and adapt swiftly to the evolving technological environment. Despite some initial resistance, many came to accept these tools recognizing their potential to boost productivity. Email became a fundamental part of the communication tool for Boomers in the 1990s, allowing them to stay connected with family and work colleagues. However, Boomers have been less likely to embrace informal writing styles, preferring full sentences, proper grammar, and traditional email etiquette. Unlike younger generations, they tend to avoid abbreviations and emojis in digital communications. Sometimes even when I text my grandparents it takes me a while because I actually have to think about properly writing out a text message and not just quickly typing something out. However, Boomers have embraced certain social media platforms such as Facebook. Many use these platforms for maintaining personal connections and posting pictures, though their writing remains structured and formal compared to younger generations. I remember a few years ago when the saying, "Okay Boomer,' became a popular meme to mock attitudes typically associated with boomers not being up to date with modern culture or attitudes. 

Generation X: 1965-1980

Generation X, holds a distinctive role in technological evolution, having experienced and adjusted to the significant transition from analog to digital. During their early years, Gen Xers depended largely on conventional communication and learning tools including handwritten notes, typewriters, and landline phones were commonplace. Educational environments focused on handwriting skills and manual research with libraries acting as the main sources of information, promoting a systemic approach to tasks and communication. The late 1970s and 1980s introduced personal computers, signaling the dawn of a digital era, and Gen Xers found themselves navigating this change. 

Word-processing software such as Microsoft Word became essential, simplifying processes that previously required careful manual labor. This arrival of the internet in the mid-1990s greatly transformed communication as email offered a fast alternative to traditional mail, changing both personal and professional interactions. This era required Gen Xers to merge their traditional writing practices with new digital formats, resulting in a blended communication style. In contrast to Millennials and Gen Z, Gen X did not grow up immersed in social media, but they adeptly incorporated platforms like Facebook and LinkedIn into their lives for reconnecting with old acquaintances, professional networking, and sharing personal updates. Their writing on these platforms often showcases a mix of the formalities from their background and the casual nature encouraged by digital communication. As mobile phones became widespread, texting rose to prominence as a primary means of communication, prompting many Gen Xers to adjust to this abbreviated messaging style in adulthood. While younger users may text using shorthand and emojis, Gen Xers generally opt for complete sentences and correct punctuation, reflecting their foundational focus on formal writing. However, this does not imply they have not adopted modern texting characteristics; many have integrated emojis and abbreviations, though it often comes with a learning process. It's common for younger generations to assist their Gen X parents with technology tasks. For example, setting up a new smartphone or clarifying the subtleties of social media can present challenges for some Gen Xers. I frequently help my parents with things like this. Interestingly, my stepmom does enjoy using emojis, although sometimes she doesn't understand some younger generation's usage of them. For example, a lot of people today use the crying emoji as the laughing emoji. Gen X's flexibility is highlighted by their capacity to balance both traditional and contemporary communication styles. In work environments, they typically compose emails with a degree of formality, ensuring clarity and professionalism. On the other hand, in personal communications, particularly on social media, they may adopt a more laid-back style, infused with modern slang and emojis. This adaptability enables them to be effective communicators across diverse platforms and audiences. Despite their flexibility, some Gen Xers struggle with the swift pace of technological changes, as the constantly evolving nature of digital tools can be intimidating. Nevertheless, their foundational knowledge of both analog and early digital tech offers them a distinctive viewpoint, facilitating connections between older and younger generations at work and home. Generation X's experience transitioning from analog to digital illustrates a story of adaptability and ongoing learning. Their skills in blending traditional communication techniques with modern technology have not only influenced their personal and professional lives but also impacted how future generations engage with technology. As technological advancements continue, Gen X exemplifies the enduring human spirit's capacity to adapt and flourish amid change. 

Millennial Generation: 1981-1996

Millennials experienced the height of the digital transformation, moving from slow dial-up connections to high-speed broadband and the emergence of smartphones. Their manner of communication was influenced by sites like AOL Instant Messenger, Myspace, and Facebook where rapid and casual messaging became standard. The advent of text messaging significantly impacted their communication style, resulting in a more relaxed and concise approach to writing. In contrast to Boomers and Gen X, who favored long, more structured forms of writing, Millennials adopted abbreviations like "LOL" and "BRB," as well as emojis and GIFs, to convey their thoughts swiftly. Although they can revert to formal writing, when necessary, particularly in emails and professional reports, their typical style leans towards a more laid-back and conversational tone. 

A key characteristic of Millennials' communication is their strong ties to early digital culture. They were pioneers in blogging, sharing their views on platforms like Tumblr and YouTube, and they played a crucial role in shaping modern online interactions. However, some of their once-favored phrases and habits have not aged gracefully. Many Millennials continue to use outdated terms like "adulting is hard," often inviting playful mockery from both Gen Z and some Gen Xers. Gen Z, especially, finds certain Millennial humor and trends to be cringe-worthy, frequently calling them out for excessive use of reaction GIFs or for phrases like "I did a thing" when updating about their lives. 

Regardless of the lighthearted ribbing, Millennials remain flexible in adapting to new trends while still cherishing their nostalgic internet history. Similar to how Boomers and Gen X possessed their distinct slang, the language of Millennials will forever be a significant aspect of their generational identity even if it brings out some embarrassment from Gen Z. 

Generation Z: 1997-2012

Generation Z represents the first cohort to have been raised with smartphones and internet access from a young age, making digital interaction instinctive for them. In contrast to earlier generations who needed to adjust to advancing technology, Gen Z has always existed in a world of immediate connectivity. Their communication largely takes place on multimedia platforms like Snapchat, TikTok, and Instagram, where visual elements often overshadow text, and they prefer concise messages over lengthy paragraphs or complete sentences. Gen Z often communicates through short-form content that delivers the message directly, utilizing emojis, GIFs, and memes to express tone and meaning more efficiently than words can. 

Interestingly, studies show that traditional typing skills among Gen Z are diminishing. Many within this generation show a preference for touchscreens as opposed to physical keyboards and frequently struggle to master standard typing. They learn voice-to-text, autocorrect, and predictive text functions, which can occasionally lead to messages filled with unintended typos or strange autocorrect incidents. Their communication tends to prioritize convenience, with speed taking precedence over correct grammar or structure. 

Another significant aspect of Gen Z's writing habits is their employment of internet slang and acronyms, which change rapidly. Unlike Millennials, who were known for abbreviations like "OMG" (oh my god) and "TTYL" (talk to you later), Gen Z has shifted to newer terms such as "FR" (for real), and "RN" (right now). These expressions often emerge from social media trends and rapidly circulate in online communities. Consequently, Gen Z's language is fluid and constantly evolving, with some phrases becoming obsolete in a matter of months. What is trendy today may be completely out of style by the next year, leaving older generations struggling to keep pace. 

Even though Gen Z is very highly skilled in technology, their preference for digital-first communication often creates misunderstandings with older generations. Millennials, Gen X, and Boomers sometimes find it challenging to understand Gen Z's slang, while Gen Z playfully mocks Millennials for still using old internet terminology. Once, Millennials dominated the online space with their frequent use of GIFs and expressions like "I can't even," but many Gen Z individuals now find their trends embarrassing. 

Furthermore, AI has also begun to shift Gen Z's writing habits, making communication even more automated and efficient. With tools like ChatGPT, and Grammarly many Gen Zers are beginning to rely on AI to generate responses, help with writing, and help with assignments. Instead of carefully structuring emails or essays, they can use AI to reword messages, check for tone, or create entire paragraphs within seconds. This has led to both increased convenience and a decline in traditional writing skills, as many have begun to heavily rely on AI. However, it also has allowed for more polished and professional communication, bridging the gap between casual digital slang and formal writing when needed. 

Advancements in technology are ongoing, and as such, writing practices will continue to change. While older generations tend to value organized and formal communication, younger generations favor quick, visual, and interactive changes. Further developments like AI-driven writing tools, voice recognition software, and augmented reality (AR) communication are likely to further alter how individuals from various generations articulate their thoughts. Technology has shifted writing from a strict and formal task to a versatile, engaging, and multimedia-oriented process. Altogether, each generation contributes its distinct viewpoint and modifications, ensuring that writing evolves in tandem with technological progress. From Boomers to Zoomers, every generation has crafted its own writing styles influenced by the technologies prevalent during their early years. Boomers changed from pen and paper letters to email, Gen X navigated between traditional and digital writing, Millennials led the way in casual online conversation, and Gen Z embraced multimedia messaging. As technology advances, the methods we use for communication will also transform, confirming that writing remains a dynamic and vital element of human interaction. 

Other sources:

The Digitally Savvy Generation: How Gen X Embraces Technology | Media Culture

Communication Technologies of Generation X – From G.I. to Z: A Generational Guide to Technology

(2) Why Gen X is worth your time. | LinkedIn

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Unit 2 Draft

 From Boomers to Zoomers: How Each Generation Adapts to Tech and Writing

    There was once an era when 'tweeting' was strictly for birds and 'streaming' was something only rivers did. Today, we are exploring the evolution of technology and its significant impact on how various generations interact and express themselves in writing. From Boomers to Generation Z (Zoomers), every generation has uniquely embraced technological progress, influencing their writing skills and communication styles. This post dives deep into these generational adaptations, tracing technological milestones and their impacts on writing practices. 

    The advancement of technology from the 1960s to the 2010s has significantly altered how we write and communicate. During the 1960s, the invention of the electric typewriter improved typing speed and made writing more approachable, simplifying the document creation process. By the 1990s, the internet and email became widely used, revolutionizing communication through immediate information exchange by introducing new writing formats. The 2000s marked the rise of specific social media sites like Bold and Six Degrees, encouraging concise and informal writing styles indicative of a cultural shift towards a more relaxed communication approach. In the 2010s, the widespread use of smartphones and messaging applications led to the popularity of emojis and GIFs, merging fun images with text and further changing written communications. 

    The Boomer generation has lived during a time when communication was largely analog. For them, handwritten notes, typewriters, and rotary phones were standard. The arrival of the electric typewriter in the 1960s represented a major technological progression for this cohort. Nevertheless, writing has continued to be primarily a thoughtful and often formal endeavor. As personal computers started to gain traction in the late 1970s and early 1980s, Boomers encountered the hurdle of moving from typewriters to digital word processors. This transition ultimately necessitated that they acquire new skills and adapt swiftly to the evolving technological environment. Despite some initial resistance, many came to accept these tools, recognizing their potential to boost productivity. 

    Generation X had a mixed upbringing, experiencing the shift from analog technologies to digital ones. Before technology had a rapid increase, they relied on pen and paper for schoolwork but gradually began to use computers for education and professional tasks. The rise of personal computers during the 1980s and 1990s made word-processing applications like Microsoft Word. Furthermore, the introduction of the internet in the mid-1990s transformed communication for Generation X. Email took the place of handwritten letters and other digital communications. This generation adjusted to digital writing formats, blending traditional writing techniques with new technologies. 

    Millennials grew up amidst the digital transformation. They experienced the change from dial-up internet to fast broadband and the widespread use of mobile devices. Forms of communication such as text messaging, instant messaging platforms like AOL Instant Messenger and social media sites like MySpace and Facebook became central to their interaction styles. This writing approach of this generation became increasingly casual and brief, shaped by the urgency of text messaging which ultimately led to a more relaxed communication style. 

    Generation Z is the first group to have actually grown up with smartphones and internet access from an early age. Their communication primarily revolved around multimedia platforms such as Snapchat, TikTok, and Instagram. When they do write, their style is usually short and heavily incorporates images, videos, and emojis. Interestingly, research indicates that Gen Z's traditional keyboard typing skills are on the decline. Many individuals from this generation favor touchscreens and often find it challenging to master conventional typing. 

Unit 2 Library

 The book "Englishness" by Simon Featherstone, caught my eye due to the title of the book. I am studying abroad in London next year, and this seemed like the perfect book to flip through for insights on England's cultural identity. Chapter 4, named "Journeys" explores London's role as a cultural and historical hub, which felt relevant. 

The library has always been a place for me where I can get work done. Carnegie Library, in particular has definitely been my go-to spot because of its peaceful atmosphere. Sometimes, though, it's almost too quiet. So quiet that if I go with a friend, I have to make a serious effort not to laugh at the most random things. There's something about absolute silence that makes the smallest distractions ten times funnier. 

When it comes to technology, my laptop is my lifeline for my schoolwork and anything I need to access. But I also love integrating technology with my library time. Having a physical space like the library ultimately helps me focus, and using my laptop there allows me to get the most out of my time in the quiet environment. 

Abstract/Pitch

 How Technology Shapes Writing Across Generations:

Writing is changing faster than it ever has. Technology has reshaped our expression, from social media captions to AI-generated responses. But how does this impact creativity, originality, and communication? In my project, I'm exploring how people from different generations, backgrounds, and careers navigate writing in the digital age. 

For college students (18-24): We grew up in the digital world, where writing happens through tests, tweets, and AI-powered tools. Does this make writing easier, or are we losing creativity and critical thinking? How much of your own writing is truly yours, and how much is influenced by the technology around you?

For Young Professionals (25-34): As you transition yourself from school to the workplace, writing takes on new forms: emails, reports, etc. Social media plays a big role in personal branding, but does adapting to online trends make writing better, or does it water down originality? How does technology help or hurt your ability to communicate effectively in your career?

For Established Professionals (35-45): You remember a time before AI tools and predictive text. Now, writing is faster, more efficient, and sometimes even automated. But is something being lost throughout the process? Have you had to adjust your writing style to keep up with modern communication, and do you see these changes as progress or a problem?

I am talking to people across these age groups to understand how their upbringing, education, and careers ultimately shape their approach to writing with technology. Whether you handwrite notes, draft emails on the go, or rely on AI tools, your experience matters in this conversation. 

I want to hear from you. How has technology shaped the way you write? Drop a comment, share your story, or reach out- let's talk about the future of writing in a tech-driven world!

I sent this blog post out to my Instagram story for people to swipe up on, and I made it a Facebook post for people to comment on.

Research Questions

 For this second unit project, I want to explore further how people with different perspectives and lives have been impacted by the use of technology with writing. The three questions I came up with were: 

1. In what ways does the use of technology in writing impact the authenticity and originality of content?

2. What role does social media play in shaping modern writing styles and communication norms? 

3. How has artificial intelligence influenced the way people approach writing and creative expression?

I got three different people I know to use for these three questions: 

1. My stepmom: My stepmom prefers to write on paper and sticks to the writing techniques she learned throughout her education. She is unfamiliar with AI tools like ChatGPT an prefers to not use these kinds of tools mostly because she doesn't know how to use them. When discussing authenticity, she emphasized that technology might dilute originality, as writers or students my age may start to become reliant on digital tools rather than their own skills. She believes that handwriting forces more deliberate through and connection to the writing process. 

2. My friend: One of my friends is a public relations major and frequently engages with online social media platforms. She has learned different types of writing and rules specific to her major and also uses digital writing tools to enhance her work. She noted that social media has greatly influenced modern writing styles, making them more concise, engaging, and audience driven. However, she also pointed out the challenges of maintaining professionalism while adapting to the evolving trends of online language. 

3. My other friend admitted that she frequently uses ai-assisted writing tools and said sometimes that she feels like she over-relies on them for classwork. Since these tools provide quick and structured responses, she has never felt the need to change her approach to writing. While she uses social media, see doesn't actively analyze communication styles but occasionally picks up on trending lingo. She acknowledged that AI tools have made writing more accessible but worries that they might hinder creativity and critical thinking skills over time. 

This activity highlighted how technology's role in writing may differ depending on personal experiences and professional backgrounds. Traditional writers and people from older generations may see it as a threat to originality, while those immersed in digital communication embrace it for efficiency engagement.  

Unit 1 Reflection

     After completing my unit one portfolio, I feel confident in the direction that my project is going and the quality of the four sources I chose to share and annotate. Each source gives a unique dive into the conversation about writing and technology, offering a mix of empirical research, historical context, and opinion. The variety of genres and authors throughout my sources has allowed me to have a well-rounded deep dive into our inquiry. Additionally, after completing each source I have been able to focus on the path I want to take throughout our next few units. These articles have ranged from academic studies to feature articles, and I was able to determine the quality of my sources based on their creditability, depth of analysis, and relevance to our inquiry. 

    The source written by Hetty Roessingh named, "Note-taking by hand: A powerful tool to support memory," is one example of a high-quality source that I found. Roessingh, a professor at the University of Calgary, provided an educational research piece that blends scientific evidence with practical advice. For example, she states, "I assign my own students, preparing to be teachers, the task of sketching the layout of the class where they are working in a field placement. They also take observational hand-written notes recoded in a Cornell template." I find that it was super helpful that she talked about the Cornell template in a research-based manner but also how she uses it herself. This academic creditability, coupled with her application of real-world examples like Leonardo da Vinci and Florence Nightingale's documentation practices, makes the article a strong addition to my collection. Ultimately, I chose this source because it gives a great mixture of her own opinion while also enforcing the facts into her article. 

    On the other hand, my feature article, "A Pencil Shop, for Texting the Old-Fashioned Way," by Molly Young, adds a cultural and nostalgic angel to the discussion. Young explores C.W. Pencil Enterprise, a store completely dedicated to pencils and how it thrives within our digital age. She writes, "Because pencils have a credible use, and this single-minded store is able to transcend its novelty status." This article demonstrates how storytelling and vivid imagery made a compelling case on how traditional writing tools can stay relevant despite technological advancements. While it is not an academic study, it contributes to where I want to focus my project into of how some people desire tangible, non-digital experiences. 

       A final example of one of the sources I chose was Abdullah Alsaleh's "The Impact of Technological Advancement on Culture and Society" provides a broad analysis of how technology shapes modern life. Throughout the article he balances positives and negatives of technology on our culture. For example, he states, "A notable concern is the potential for digital technologies to entrench existing inequalities. For instance, communities with limited internet access or technological infrastructure may find themselves excluded from cultural and economic opportunities. Moreover, the lack of representation for minority cultures in digital content and platforms can lead to a loss of cultural diversity." This is just one example of a quote from his article that highlights the deep understanding of how digital tools can negatively affect our society. Ultimately, I picked this article because it is highly important to visit both the positives before making a conclusion on anything.

    Technology played a significant role in enhancing my project. One key example is how I utilized online databases like the Syracuse library database. I was able to find a research-based article by searching up key words in order to find something that worked for our inquiry. Furthermore, just being able to use google to find other sources helped me to dive deeper. Furthermore, digital annotation tools allowed me to highlight key points in my sources to make notes for easy summarizing. 

    Looking at the quality of my sources in my topic right now, I can see that there is a significant amount of research on the benefits and drawbacks of technology in writing and education. However, there ultimately will always be certain gaps. One area that I could further research into would be the long-term effects of AI-assisted writing on students' critical thinking and originality. However, this may be hard because AI powered apps like ChatGPT have not been around long enough to fully dive down that rabbit hole. Additionally, more studies on how different demographic groups engage with writing technology, such as low-income students versus wealthier students. Ultimately, for the next units I really want to dive deeper in how students are being affected by technological advancements. Furthermore, also expressing how I feel about the use of technology in the classroom and how technology has changed throughout my education.

    For our future projects, I see myself using several of these sources. For Unit 2, which focuses on analyzing how writing and technology interact in specific contexts, Roessingh's research on handwriting and AI's influence on writing feedback would be highly relevant. I could expand the debate over whether digital tools enhance or hinder the writing process for students. During this unit, I challenged myself by engaging with a mix of empirical research and narrative-driven journalism. When reading the research articles, I had to carefully analyze data and interpret some findings. Additionally, when reading the first source by Young I was a little skeptical about how this niche business would fit into my research, but I ultimately realized how it contributed to the broader theme of nostalgia and resistance to digital dominance. 

    As a result of this unit, I improved my ability to summarize information from a variety of different sources. I also became more acknowledged on how to think about the gaps that certain research articles may have within them. Overall, this unit allowed me to refine my critical thinking skills and develop a deeper understanding of how writing and technology intersect in our society today.