Communication is a crucial variable needed in the world to get things done. Communication can range from asking a question, stating a fact, or presenting an argument. While all of those things are unique in their own sense, they all have a common factor. Every time something is communicated, it is important how a person presents their idea to their specific audience. Having the right Discourse can make all the difference in getting a purpose across when speaking to certain people.
According to James Paul Gee, a discourse is, ” saying (writing)-doing-being-valuing-believing combinations,” which help people proactively speak to others. When presenting an argument, a person’s Discourse can make all of the difference in trying to prove a point. For example, if a businessman decided to start a discussion with a biker, he could not talk in such a way he would to a colleague. His tone, body language, word choice, and dialogue would all need to be level with the bikers. The two men come from entirely different backgrounds with very different belief systems.
When Gee argues that a person can speak with perfect grammar and be “wrong nonetheless,” he means that a person needs to reach their audience at a level they understand. They must present themselves and their topic in a way that is relatable to their audience. The style must be constructed in a way that makes the audience understand where the speaker is coming from. The tone should be connected to the situation at hand if it is serious or humorous. The speaker must take into account whom they are talking to, and use terms and lingo they would appreciate. Also, constraints should be used because saying the wrong thing could affect how well the audience is being reached. With all of that being mentioned, one can see that it is equally important how and what a person says to another. it can make the difference in communicating effectively.
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