Next time you find yourself in a public space, take a moment to observe your surroundings. What do you notice? Pay close attention to the people around you. How many of them are engaged in face-to-face conversations? How many have their heads down, engrossed in their smartphones or tablets?

The advent of technology has revolutionized the way people communicate. We now have the ability to text, email, tweet, and share videos throughout the day. In many ways, we are more connected than ever before.

However, some experts argue that these new forms of communication have come at the expense of real, in-person conversations. They claim that electronic interactions lack the depth and richness of face-to-face conversations. In a text message, for example, you cannot interpret body language. Similarly, an email does not convey facial expressions or tone of voice, which leaves much room for misinterpretation.

But do we really spend that much time on electronic devices? According to a 2019 study by Common Sense Media, the answer is yes. The majority of American teenagers spend over seven hours per day using electronic devices for entertainment and communication. For children aged 8 to 12, the average is nearly five hours per day. Many kids even spend more time on screens at school.

So, what’s the concern? Many individuals worry that excessive screen time can negatively impact social and writing skills. It can lead to reduced eye contact and increased distractions during face-to-face communication, making it harder to maintain healthy relationships at home, school, and work.

Does digital communication offer any benefits? Absolutely! It teaches important skills and habits. After all, in today’s workplace, many people connect through email or chat software. However, face-to-face conversations also provide valuable skills that contribute to overall well-being.

Real-life conversations have the power to turn a bad day into a good one. They make individuals feel more connected to others. Have you ever experienced feelings of sadness or loneliness? If so, you know that a smile and a few kind words can completely change your mood.

So, how can we ensure that we do not lose the art of conversation? Experts urge individuals to unplug more often. Set aside dedicated time without devices. Engage in face-to-face conversations with friends and family. Maintaining a healthy balance between on-screen and off-screen discussions will enhance your communication skills.

When was the last time you unplugged? If you’re unsure, try it now. Put down your electronic devices and spend time with the people around you. Take a walk or play outside. Don’t worry, Wonderopolis—and all your other online activities—will still be here when you return!

Give It a Try

Ready to revive the forgotten art of conversation? Explore the following activities with a friend or family member:

Media Consumption and Real Conversations

Have you ever wondered how much time you spend each day using electronic devices for various types of media consumption? It might surprise you. To find out, try this experiment: over the next few days, carefully track the amount of time you spend on any electronic device, such as smartphones, computers, and televisions. Whether you’re watching videos, listening to music, texting friends, or scrolling through Instagram, make a note of it all. Once you have collected the data, share it with a friend or family member and get their perspective. Do they think you are spending too much time on electronic devices? If so, why? If not, why not?

Are you up for a genuine conversation? Find a friend or family member and simply sit down and talk for at least 30 minutes. Put away all electronic devices and have a chat about anything and everything. If the conversation slows down, take a walk together and discuss what you see around you. Alternatively, you could discuss your hopes and dreams for the future. Enjoy the experience of having a real conversation without the aid of electronic devices!

Ready for a challenge? Engage in a debate with a friend or family member about the importance of conversation. Do you believe that real-life conversation is a dying art that needs to be revived? Or do you think we are doing just fine with communication through electronic devices? Provide examples to support your position. Does your friend agree with you? Why or why not?

Wonder Sources

• https://www.pewresearch.org/internet/2018/08/22/how-teens-and-parents-navigate-screen-time-and-device-distractions/ (accessed 12 May 2020)
• https://abcnews.go.com/US/teens-spend-hours-screens-entertainment-day-report/story?id=66607555 (accessed 12 May 2020)
• https://www.business.com/articles/technology-should-enhance-communication-skills/ (accessed 12 May 2020)
• https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/the-novel-perspective/201301/the-trouble-texting (accessed 12 May 2020)

FAQ

1. Is conversation becoming a lost art in today’s digital age?

With the rise of technology and the prevalence of digital communication, there is concern that conversation is becoming a lost art. People now rely heavily on instant messaging and social media platforms to communicate, often sacrificing meaningful face-to-face conversations. While these digital tools offer convenience and efficiency, they lack the depth and nuance of a real conversation. It is important to make a conscious effort to engage in meaningful conversations, as they foster connection, empathy, and understanding.

2. How does the decline of conversation impact our relationships?

The decline of conversation can have a negative impact on our relationships. When we rely solely on digital communication, we miss out on non-verbal cues, such as body language and tone of voice, which are crucial for understanding and building strong connections. Meaningful conversations allow us to express ourselves fully, listen attentively, and engage in genuine dialogue. Without these conversations, relationships may become superficial, lacking depth and intimacy.

3. Can conversation skills be learned and improved?

Absolutely! Conversation skills can be learned and improved through practice. Active listening, asking open-ended questions, and being genuinely interested in others are essential components of effective communication. By being mindful of our conversational habits and making a conscious effort to improve, we can become better at engaging in meaningful conversations. It is also important to create a conducive environment for conversation, free from distractions and with a focus on genuine connection.

4. How can we encourage more conversation in our daily lives?

Encouraging more conversation in our daily lives requires a conscious effort. Setting aside dedicated time for face-to-face conversations, such as family dinners or coffee dates with friends, can create opportunities for deeper connections. Putting away electronic devices and actively listening to others signals our commitment to the conversation. Additionally, engaging in activities that promote conversation, such as book clubs or discussion groups, can provide a structured setting for meaningful dialogue.

5. What are the benefits of engaging in meaningful conversations?

Engaging in meaningful conversations offers numerous benefits. Firstly, it allows us to connect on a deeper level with others, fostering empathy and understanding. Meaningful conversations also promote personal growth, as they provide opportunities for self-reflection and learning from different perspectives. They can also help build strong relationships, as open and honest communication cultivates trust and intimacy. Lastly, meaningful conversations contribute to overall well-being, as they provide a sense of belonging and fulfillment.

6. How can we strike a balance between digital communication and face-to-face conversation?

Striking a balance between digital communication and face-to-face conversation is crucial. While digital communication offers convenience, it is important to recognize its limitations and prioritize real-life conversations. Setting boundaries for technology use, such as designated screen-free times or zones, can help create space for face-to-face interactions. It is also important to be intentional about using technology to enhance rather than replace conversations, such as using video calls instead of text messages for important discussions.