In this chapter, we will go through conversation analysis, its history and development, and some common elements of a turn-taking conversation.
Before even introducing conversation analysis, we should know why we talk. Goodwin & Heritage(1990, Pg.283) define "Social interaction is the primordial means through which the business of the social world is transacted, the identities of its participants are affirmed or denied, and its cultures are transmitted, renewed and modified" . Through these interactions, humans can retain previous relationships and achieve new ones. And just like the reasons for language back in chapter 2, the same applies for the reason language is sustained, and is the reason conversation is studied now.
The approach of conversation analysis came from Garfinkel and his research into ethnomethodology. It studies how the already existing knowledge of the public affects how people see different situations under different contexts. (Garfinkel,1967) And when this idea came to Sacks, he developed it into the investigation of public order that is produced through conversation, becoming the start of conversation analysis. (Sacks& Jefferson, 1992)
The observer's paradox, according to Dale& Vinson (2013, Pg.3) is "the notion that intervention or measurement by an observer can directly impact (or coordinate with) the behavior of the system being studied", meaning that the presence of an observer makes conversation unnatural, and thus cannot depict normal conversation. To combat it, linguists have proven that the usage of audio or video recording devices can also accurately capture the interactions present at the moment. (Peräkylä, 1997).
To accurately record the transcriptions, Gail Jefferson developed the Jeffersonian transcription system, in which every single annotation in it represents the different happenings in the documented interactions. Characters like ":" take on a different meaning, as the colon now represents a prolonged speech, and a (1.4) would represent pause. To further ease the understanding of the language, the international phonetic alphabet (IPA) was devised in order to represent the lexical sounds produced in speech, such as the intonations and stress points. (International Phonetic Association, 1999)
But before we understand conversational analysis, there are some core assumptions to go through, as suggested by Psathas (1995). While these rules show that conversation analysis is not random or unconstructed, it stills retains a certain level of uniqueness, as the conversations cannot be generalized into any single uniformity. (Wooffitt,2005)
This is the basic assumption as demonstrated and shown in researches by Sacks, Jefferson and so on. It is the idea that the conversation should not have regard to the speakers, and that the conversation should be one that is natural and free flowing, not monitored or forcefully initiated.
The order in conversation is repeated across all speakers, as in order to give and achieve an appropriate action, the order should be kept throughout the conversation
That is, order should be produced by the speakers for the conversation. The participants create the order for which they speak in and their behaviours and orders should reflect such. it also dictates that no outside force, like the analysists, should not force order externally in order to see certain effects.
Turn-taking plays a key role in conversation analysis, which helps to achieve a smooth exchange of dialogue between different participants. It relies heavily on a systematic process that allows speakers to take turns in a way that is coherent and follows social order. (Sacks, Schegloff, & Jefferson, 1974).
This concept is central to conversation analysis because it clearly defines the structure and flow of interactions. To better understand how participants manage their contributions fluently in dialogue, it is essential for us to learn the following Turn-Taking mechanisms. (Stivers & Sidnell, 2005).
A turn-constructional unit (TCU) is a basic segment of speech,serving as a potential "turn" in a conversation. It can take various forms, including a word, phrase, sentences, or even some non-verbal units such as gestures and laughters. This concept is important to understand how speakers manage their turns and how listeners interpret when to engage in the conversation.
Schegloff (1990) further stresses the significance of TCUs by discussing how they interact with conversational sequences. Here are some examples of TCUs in several types of conversational units:
Single-word as TCUs
"No" --a simple response to a question or showing you disagree with something
"What?" --- indicating confusion or asking for further explanations
"Alright"--- showing that you agree to do something.
Phrases as TCUs
"Not really" ---used to express uncertainty when someone ask you to something.
"Under the sofa"---answering a question about the direction of an object.
"Right away"---indicating that you will take immediate action.
Non-verbal as TCUs
Laughters can create a natural and humorous atmosphere while having a conversation.
Gestures such as a nod or bow can let people know the things you want to convey in different contexts.
The Turn-Allocation Mechanism is a crucial concept in CA to describe how participants in a conversation manage the flow of talk. More importantly, deciding who will be the next to take turns in a conversation. This process is governed by some following implicit rules to help maintain order and coherence in natural dialogue.
The most direct way to allocate a turn is for the current speaker to explicitly select the next speaker. This can be done through various linguistic cues such as using a name, making eye contact, or just asking a direct question. For example, in a meeting, someone might ask, "Could you please share your opinion with us Taylor?" This clearly indicates that Taylor is expected to take the next turn.
Figure2.1
Selecting students to answer questions
Image from:https://pic.52112.com/180713/JPG-180713_954/yP4ok9m1kw_small.jpg
If the current speaker does not select the next speaker, other participants in the conversation can self-select to speak next. This often occurs when there is a natural pause, or the current speaker completes their thought without indicating a specific next speaker. In such cases, more than one person might attempt to take the floor, leading to overlap or the need for negotiation to determine who will continue.
Figure 2.2 Self-select to speak
Image from:https://pic2.sucaisucai.com/09/14/09714012_2.jpg
If no one self-selects after a pause, the current speaker may continue speaking. This can happen when the speaker has more to say or when the group allows for longer turns. The continuation can also occur if the speaker uses cues to indicate they are not finished, such as pausing but maintaining eye contact or using fillers like "uh" or "um."
Figure 2.3 Current Speaker Continues
Image from:https://www.creativehatti.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/Elder-Indian-Teacher-giving-lecture-small.jpg
Turn-taking conventions can be various based on context and culture.
In some formal settings, such as in business or academic meetings, or when your groups giving a presentation in front of whole class. Turn-taking is often well-structured. People may raise their hands, wait to be called, or follow an agenda that dictates who to speak next. Interruptions are generally avoided unless absolutely necessary.
Figure2.4 In a formal setting
(image generated by padlet)
In a casual chat, turn-taking is more flexible. Imagine when you are chatting with your good friends.People might overlap in conversation, interrupt each other, or speak in rapid succession, even with laughter and some reactions.
Figure2.5 In an informal setting
(image generated by padlet)
Turn-taking differ significantly between American and Japanese cultures reflecting distinct communication norms.
In American culture, there is a strong emphasis on allowing one person to speak at a time, with interruptions and overlapping speech generally seen as disrespectful. This approach ensures clarity and provides each speaker with an opportunity to express their thoughts fully. (Sacks, Schegloff, & Jefferson, 1974)
In contrast, Japanese culture embraces the use of "aizuchi"—short, frequent interjections like "un" or "sō"—to show concentration and understanding during a conversation(Maynard, 1990).These interjections often occur mid-sentence, reflecting politeness and active engagement.
While American norms prioritize individual expression and uninterrupted speech, Japanese conventions emphasize collaboration and listener involvement, highlighting the cultural values underlying communication styles.
Turn-taking is not only a conversationthat adapts to the unique demands of various contexts, such as education, healthcare, and even political events like U.S. presidential elections. Its relevance in each domain lies in its ability to structure interactions, ensuring clarity and fairness.
Turn-taking is essential in medical consultations, where it facilitates clear communication between doctors and patients. Doctors typically guide the interaction by asking questions and providing space for patients to express concerns. Smooth turn transitions build trust and ensure both parties understand the discussion. Interruptions or poorly managed turns, however, may compromise the quality of care by causing misunderstandings or patient dissatisfaction (Heritage & Maynard, 2006)
Figure2.6 Doctors communicate with patients
Image from:
https://i.epochtimes.com/assets/uploads/2021/09/id13234439-iStock-1266812230-600x400.jpg
Turn-taking is especially important in U.S. presidential debates, where it shapes public perceptions of candidates. Moderators enforce strict turn-taking rules to ensure fairness, but candidates often use strategic interruptions or overlaps to assert dominance or challenge opponents. Effective turn-taking, such as pausing for emphasis or responding at the right moment, can project confidence and control. In contrast, frequent interruptions may signal defensiveness or aggression, impacting audience impressions (Clayman, 1992).
Video2.7:Turn-Taking in presidential debate
Source:https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OQgE0ETV81s
8.3.1CONVERSATIONAL REPAIR
Source from https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GrGvIREZrpU
Definition: Communication repairs are strategies used in conversations to address problems that arise in speaking, hearing, or understanding. They help ensure that the dialogue remains clear and effective, allowing participants to correct misunderstandings or clarify statements.
Figure 8.3.2REPAIRS
source from https://omazingkidsllc.com/2022/11/07/aac-communication-repairs/
Importance:
Enhance Clarity: Repairs help clarify misunderstandings, ensuring that all parties have a correct understanding of the conversation.
Maintain Flow: They allow conversations to continue smoothly, even when issues arise,
which means to fix communication breakdown.
Build Relationships: Effective communication, including repairs, fosters trust and rapport between speakers.
Encourage Engagement: They prompt active listening and involvement from both parties, which can lead to deeper discussions.
Figure 8.3.3FOUR TYPES OF SELF-REPAIR
source from https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=I3WMRx9-4x4&t=960s
Self‐repair” is completed by the producer of the trouble‐source, and “other‐repair” by its recipient. This provides a basic four‐way taxonomy: self‐initiated self‐repair (SISR), self‐initiated other‐repair (SIOR), other‐initiated self‐repair (OISR), and other‐initiated other‐repair (OIOR).
Extract8 8.3.2.1Self‐initiated self‐repair example
source from https://git.io/vPb6G
Figure 8.3.4Self‐initiated self‐repair example
source from https://git.io/vPb6G
1)Definition: The most frequently occurring type of conversational repair is self-initiated self-repair within the same Turn Construction Unit (TCU), as noted by Schegloff et al. (1977). This repair occurs when a speaker recognizes an issue in their speech and corrects it before the listener has a chance to respond. Even when a turn appears to be complete—known as a transition relevance place (TRP)—speakers can still perform repairs in the brief “transition space” that follows (Schegloff, 1979, p. 269).
2)Example: In Extract 8, we see Pam and Lyn observing and describing performers from a balcony. Throughout her description, Pam engages in several instances of self-initiated repair. She interrupts herself twice: first with “loo” in line 43 and then with “sim-” in line 44. Following these interruptions, she employs an insertion repair procedure (Wilkinson & Weatherall, 2011), which involves adding phrases such as “does” and “the different groups did a very” to clarify her earlier remarks.
Pam indicates the end of each repair by repeating the interrupted words “look” and “similar.” This process is illustrated in Fig. 1, which visualizes the structure of this insertion repair.
Figure 8.3.5 Self‐initiated self‐repair in third position example
source form https://git.io/vPb6G
Figure 8.3.6 self‐repair in third position example
source from GitHub. https://git.io/vPb6G
2)Example:2 type of repair is particularly common when a recipient's response reveals a lack of clarity or ambiguity, which can lead to confusion. In Extract 11, for example, Evelyn asks her husband Arthur about his newspaper, but her wording is unclear regarding whether she is asking about the entire newspaper or just the specific article he is reading.
1)Definition:self-initiated self-repair in third position addresses misunderstandings that arise from a recipient's response to a previous turn in the conversation. Schegloff (1992) refers to this as the "last structurally provided defense of intersubjectivity," emphasizing its role in preserving mutual understanding before a significant breakdown in communication occurs.
2)Example:1 For instance, in Extract 10, Claire is watching television while her mother, Helen, is finishing up cooking. When Helen asks Claire to “switch that off,” Claire mistakenly thinks her mother is referring to the oven alarm instead of the television. In line 5, Helen performs a third position repair by clarifying that she meant the television and mentions that she will turn off the oven herself. This clarification resolves the misunderstanding, allowing them to smoothly continue with their tasks, such as setting the table and serving dinner.
Figure 8.3.7 Self‐initiated other‐repair example
source from https://git.io/vPb6G
Figure 8.3.8 Self‐initiated other‐repair example
source from https://git.io/vPb6G
Figure 2 demonstrates how a “search” repair space can be created through sound stretches, extended pauses, and prompts such as “whatchamacallit” or “whatsisname.” These cues assist the listener in offering a potential repair (Lerner, 1996, pp. 262–264). In cases where such hints are absent, speakers may engage in “self-directed” searches (Lerner, 2013), wherein they pause the conversation to resolve the issue independently.
1)Definition: A frequently observed form of self-initiated other-repair is referred to as a “search.” In this process, the speaker hesitates, cuts off their speech, or becomes disfluent within a Turn Construction Unit (TCU), signaling that they are struggling to continue. This situation creates an opportunity for the listener to step in and provide assistance.
2)Example2: In Extract 9, Jamie has difficulty remembering the full name of an author but offers Anne enough clues to help her assist him. His initial “oh” indicates that he has just recalled something (Bolden, 2006; Heritage, 1984a), specifically the name “Sackville.” Following a brief pause with no response from Anne, Jamie begins his search for the name, saying it is “>something to do with< Sackville.” By using the phrase “you know,” he suggests that Anne might recognize the author. He then elongates the sound on “the:::,” followed by a pause and “um,” which reflects his struggle.
Continuing in this manner, Jamie directly asks Anne, “what a” they called it, prompting her to provide the answer. He quickly confirms her suggestion in an overlapping manner. Once this search is resolved, they smoothly transition to the next topic.
Figure8.3.9 Other‐initiated self‐repair example
source from Hub. https://git.io/vPb6G
1)Definition: Other-initiated self-repair (OISR) occurs when a participant other than the speaker of the trouble-source initiates a repair, which the original speaker then completes (Schegloff et al., 1977). This process interrupts the ongoing conversation and introduces a new, nested sequence (Clift, 2016). Typically, OISR is initiated right after the trouble-source (Schegloff, 2000).
2)Example3: In a conversation between June and Arthur, June announces her intention to contact the Krona margarine company for a replacement package. Arthur initially responds with “Huh,” indicating confusion—this is a weak repair initiator. When June fails to clarify, Arthur upgrades his response to a more specific format, employing a partial repeat combined with a wh-word in his next turn. This escalation helps locate the exact trouble-source of his misunderstanding.
As the interaction unfolds, June recognizes Arthur’s “Huh” as a signal of hearing difficulty and attempts to clarify by repeating part of her statement. However, when Arthur upgrades his request in line 9, specifying his confusion, June responds by reiterating the necessary information in line 10. This dynamic illustrates how conversational partners navigate misunderstandings through a structured process of repair.
Figure 8.3.10 Other‐initiated other‐repair example
source from https://git.io/vPb6G
Communication overlap refers to instances in a conversation where two or more speakers begin to speak at the same time or where one speaker’s utterance interrupts or coincides with another’s. This phenomenon can occur in various forms and has significant implications for the dynamics of interaction.
Simultaneous Speech:
This occurs when two speakers talk at the same time, which can result from excitement, urgency, or a desire to contribute to the conversation.
Example: In a lively discussion, both A and B might say, “I agree!” simultaneously.
Interruption:
One speaker starts speaking before the other has finished, often to interject a thought or to redirect the conversation.
Example: A might say, “I think we should…” and B interrupts with, “But wait, what about…”
Backchanneling:
This involves brief responses or acknowledgments from one participant while another is speaking, such as “uh-huh” or “right,” which signify attentiveness and engagement.
Example: While A explains a situation, B might interject with “Exactly!” or “Sure!” to show understanding.
Figure8.3.14 Tick Symbol source from https://www.clipartmax.com/middle/m2i8i8b1i8m2K9H7_tick-symbol-tick-symbol/
Positive Effects:
Engagement: Overlap can indicate enthusiasm and active participation in the conversation.
Dynamic Interaction: It can create a more vibrant and interactive dialogue, fostering a sense of collaboration.
Figure 8.3.15 Wrong png images
source from https://www.pngegg.com/en/search?q=wrong
Negative Effects:
Miscommunication: Overlap can lead to confusion if messages are not clearly conveyed, as both speakers may struggle to be heard.
Frustration: It may cause frustration for speakers who feel their points are being overshadowed or ignored.
Turn-Taking Breakdown: Overlapping speech can disrupt the natural flow of conversation and complicate turn-taking.
“Silence is the limit of our world of description or language; and a limit can never be a part of the world of which it is a limit. Just as ‘eye’ cannot be a part of the visual field, or ‘self’ a part of the objective world, similarly silence can never be a part of the world of language.”
——Ganguly, S. N. (1968)
Figure 4.1 explains what silence is
source from: https://ih1.redbubble.net/image.980744388.3078/fposter,small,wall_texture,square_product,600x600.jpg
In conversation analysis, “attributable silence” refers to a “meaningful silence” (Wang, 2011, p79). According to Schegloff and Sacks (1973), this type of silence occurs due to “its non-occurrence while still relevant,” and it holds significant importance in everyday interactions. This silence is “as intrinsic to human existence as is speech” (Kenny, 2011, p. 12). It is not merely the absence of sound. Actually, it “carries specific social and communicative meanings.” (Elouakili, 2017)
Silence is “highly culture-dependent”. It is not a fixed phenomenon, there rather exist “varieties of silence” (Shrader-kniffki, 2007, p. 305). Different cultures have different norms of silence. In India, silence is regarded not just as a form of respite but also as a means of enjoying the highest truth or blessing. While in other countries, silence might be seen as a symbol of awkwardness or disagreement.
Figure 4.2 understanding silence in India
source form: https://stablediffusionweb.com/app/image-generator
Psychological Mechanisms of Silence involve a broader range of psychological principles, including cognitive, emotional, and social factors that collectively lead individuals to choose silence. This concept focuses more on the psychological mechanisms of silence, for example, silence might be a coping strategy used to deal with stress, avoid conflicts, or manage emotions. Within this mechanism, silence may be closely related to an individual's psychological state, such as anxiety, depression, or self-awareness.
Some examples of psychological mechanisms is, with the development of society, more and more instances of 'workplace ostracism' are emerging. Workplace ostracism is a complex form of interpersonal conflict that can lead to employees developing avoidance and retaliation responses, with silence being one of them. Those who are isolated may, due to a lack of security and a sense of belonging, hesitate to approach those around them, fearing they will be rejected again. Other reasons for silence might include psychological mechanisms similar to “negative punishment,” where individuals who have been isolated in the past for speaking out of turn in the workplace are likely to choose to remain silent in similar situations in the future. When more people remain silent in the same setting, the atmosphere becomes constrained, as if there is an additional barrier that hinders communication among everyone.
Figure 4.3 Psychological mechanism in silence
This theory is originally developed by Heider (1958) and primarily focuses on the attributability of silence, that is, why people choose to remain silent and the motives and reasons behind this behavior. It may involve multiple disciplines such as sociology, psychology, and communication studies, exploring the significance and function of silence in different contexts. For instance, in communication research, silence may be regarded as a way of conveying information, capable of transmitting various intentions and emotions, such as agreement, disagreement, hesitation, or contemplation. Within this theory, silence is viewed as a behavior with multifaceted reasons behind it, including sociocultural factors, individual psychological states, and communication strategies.
Attributable theories of silence examine the reasons and motivations behind silence in different social and communicative contexts, while psychological mechanisms of silence examine the internal psychological processes that lead to silence, such as stress management and emotion regulation. The former is more sociological and communicative, while the latter is essentially psychological in nature, focusing on individual mental health.
The interplay of these psychological and contextual factors illustrates how silence can be both a personal coping mechanism and a reflection of broader organizational culture.
Linkage attributable silence refers to silence’s role in establishing or maintaining social connections. In some cases, silence can be a powerful form of non-verbal communication that helps build trust and understanding (Wang, 2011).
Linkage attributable silence refers to silence’s role in establishing or maintaining social connections. In some cases, silence can be a powerful form of non-verbal communication that helps build trust and understanding (Wang, 2011).
Figure 4.4 Silence seen as a signal to reconciliation
source form: https://i1.read01.com/2blOX3GAXVVtKSYlVFk81P0/0.jpg
if a husband chooses to remain silent after arguing with his wife, the silence may help to heal the damaged relationship (over time) if the wife sees it as a signal of reconciliation.
Figure 4.5 A boy and a girl look at each other passionately
source from: https://sites.google.com/d/1KO-BQ01AwwonCrk4AlDmtMxyD-IBYtPH/p/155AvYugZBNvsFe5ibaVPk5rzjd677NAF/edit
during a date, a boy and a girl in a conversation may stop talking and look at each other passionately, and the ensuing silence might bond them together more closely.
Figure 4.6 climax in a concert
after the climax of a concert, the silence of the audience may be one of appreciation and reflection on the performance, a silence that enhances the depth of the experience.
The linkage of silence can be seen not only in more relaxed settings, but also in relatively serious situation, such as at the workplace. Take for example, leadership——do all leaders have to be confident and talk without thinking? The answer is not necessarily. What do you notice when you look at the leaders around you? Let's take a look at “the power of quiet leadership” in this video.
video 4.7 The Power of Quiet Leadership
source from: https://youtu.be/cdvjGh4S9DA?t=188
Introvert person can be strong and become good leaders. The real proof that you are a good leader is when finish a project, their followers say the words “we did it”!
Judgmental attributable silence refers to the silence chosen by individuals after evaluating a situation because they believe speaking might lead to negative consequences or violate social norms.
This silence can be a social control mechanism by which disapproval or dissatisfaction is expressed through silence (Morrison & Milliken, 2000). For example, organizational silence, which refers to the phenomenon of employees that they collectively decide not to provide information or feedback when facing potential problems, occurs in view of the management’s negative reactions and potential perspectives (Morrison & Milliken, 2000); Ironically, despite management consistently emphasizing these ideals, true empowerment is not achieved in most organizations. This ambivalent disconnect leads the employees feeling unable to express themselves, so they choose to remain silent. This adversely affects organizational change and the development of a truly diverse environment. In a diverse organization, employees must feel safe and encouraged to share their personal opinions. If they feel that their opinions are not valued or that sentences may lead to negative consequences, then the organization will not be able to take full advantage of the diversity of its workforce.
Another example is, contrary to what is mentioned in 8.4.3.1.1(above), if a husband chooses to remain silent arguing with his wife, the silent would further upset the wife if she thinks it is her husband’s indifference to her (Wang, 2011).
Revelatory attributable silence is the silence that reveals an individual's inner state or unspoken thoughts. In communication, silence can sometimes express a person's true feelings more than words (Kenny, 2011).
This phenomenon is prevalent in our daily lives.
source from: https://imgs.699pic.com/images/503/206/364.jpg!detail.v1
The first example is silence in medical consultation, which is also the vast majority of people don’t want to hear. In the context of a doctor-patient consultation, a period of silence may occur before or after the doctor has shared a serious diagnosis. This silence may be used to process the information and express empathy while also allowing the patient to emotionally digest the news. This silence reveals the patient's possible fear, uncertainty, and shock, as well as the doctor's respect and understanding of the patient's emotional state.
Figure 4.9 an interview within some silence
The second one is silence in job interviews. in a job interview, the interviewer may intentionally remain silent for a period of time after asking a question. This silence can be used to observe the candidate's reactions, such as how they organize their thoughts and whether they appear nervous or confident. This silence reveals the interviewer's assessment of the candidate's nonverbal signals, and may also cause the candidate to feel the need to fill the silence, thereby revealing their true thoughts or readiness.
Activating attributable silence is the silence that stimulates an individual's intrinsic motivation or emotional response, prompting them to take action or change behavior. Meanwhile, Kanawattanachai and Yoo (2007)’s study on silence and IT teams suggest that silence can be a strategy used to stimulate creativity and critical thinking among people. They argue that appropriate silence can provide space for people to think and reflect, thereby stimulating deeper discussion and innovation.
Recently activating attributable silence is prevalently applied in educational settings. In a classroom, a teacher may deliberately pause for a moment after explaining a complex academic concept. This silence may stimulate students' curiosity and encourage them to ask questions or express their own perspectives and understanding. Students may feel the need to get involved because of the teacher's silence and thus participate more actively in class discussions, which can help deepen their understanding of the content and make the learning outcome more effectively.
Figure 4.10 activating outcome in classroom activities source from: https://zqb.cyol.com/images/1/20190910/1568052339328_1.jpg
With the hands of technology embracing the world, the way we communicate has undergone a dramatic transformation. Under this background, the meaning and role of silence also evolve. In digital communication, silence may no longer be just physical silence but encompasses more dimensions, such as “read but not replied” in online communication and “liking” but not commenting on social media. These behaviors do not involve verbal exchanges but still convey messages and attitudes.
“read but not replied”
Figure 4.11 read but not replied
source form: https://s3apnortheast1.amazonaws.com/mobileximage/2021_10_04105721.jpg
“liking” only
Figure 4.12 liking source form: https://www.topromax.com/upload/source/202406/06110767614001717646036.png
Morrison and Milliken (2000) state: “The behavioral cycle of maintaining organizational silence in turn-taking will be extremely hard to break. One reason is that these cycles are not subject to direct observation or discussion. Another is that once people start distrusting a system, it is extremely hard to restore their faith (Zand, 1972).” And in the fast-paced digital age, silence may be seen as a handicap to communication effectiveness. Prolonged silence can lead to misunderstandings or communication breakdowns, affecting productivity and relationships. What’s more, silence can be further complicated because on some social platforms, users cannot see what is behind them, and they can choose to express their opinions anonymously. Meanwhile, on public social platforms, silence can be interpreted as a default attitude towards a topic or event. What's even scarier is that sometimes online violence also comes from silence.
video 4.13 why silence is power source form: https://youtu.be/IkJZMxW__nI
Silence is prevalent in everyday life, whether at home, social gatherings, or on the internet. If it is used appropriately, silence can add depth and nuance to communication. A well-timed pause can allow one to organize one's thoughts and avoid impulsive statements that can lead to misunderstandings.
Moreover, silence plays a crucial role in interpersonal dynamics. It can serve as a non-verbal form of communication that often conveys deeper emotions than words alone. Therefore, understanding and mastering the art of silence is crucial to fostering healthy relationships. By recognizing the significance of silence, individuals can gain better insight into their own and others' feelings, leading to more harmonious interactions.
When silence is perceived as an important signal, it may trigger specific emotional responses, may affect the individuals’ cognition, and may influence the dynamics in interpersonal relationships. Attributable silence can be found everywhere in society, and the correct use of silence can be extremely meaningful.
Figure 5.1 Greeting
source from:
https://medium.com/@shruti.bhargava30/do-we-have-a-name-yet-63ff77eb9ffa
Conversation is sequentially organized. A sequence of conversation is a structured flow or sequence of two or more related discourses between conversation participants.
Understanding how utterances form sequences in conversation is crucial for several reasons:
Figure 5.2 Have read back
source from:
https://www.google.com/search?sca-esv=9d94dd5c257ef4ca-enhk1128
Facilitates Effective Communication:recognizing the structure of conversational sequences helps individuals engage more effectively in dialogue. Speakers can respond appropriately, maintaining the flow of conversation and ensuring that their messages are conveyed clearly.
Figure 5.3 Dialogue
source from:
https://freerangestock.com/photos/163298/colleagues-having-a-thoughtful-discussion.html
2.Promotes Social Interaction: conversations are not just about exchanging information; they are also social events. Understanding the sequential organization of utterances allows individuals to navigate social norms and expectations, which is vital for building relationships and fostering social bonds. For example, knowing how to appropriately respond to greetings or questions can prevent misunderstandings and promote smoother interactions.(Meyer,A.S. 2023)
3.Supports language learning : for language learners, grasping how utterances form sequences can aid in acquiring conversational skills. It helps learners understand ask questions, how to make requests, and how to provide feedback, which sre all essential for effective communication in a new language.
Figure 5.5 Reply
source from: https://depositphotos.com/cn/vector/interpersonal-communication-face-to-face-149437190.html
4.Addresses Communication Breakdowns: awareness of conversational sequences can help identify and address potential breakdowns in communication. By understanding what constitutes a preferred or dis-preferred response, individuals can adjust their communication strategies to avoid misunderstandings enhance clarity.(Meyer, A.S.2023)
Adjacency pairs are basis for conversation . An adjacency pair is identified when one inter-actionally relevant utterance immediately follows another 'Given the recognizable completion its speaker should produce a second pair of the same pair type.'(Schegloff,E.A.1973)
Video 5.6 Adjacency pair
source from:https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YhZ9jiJZsmM&t=6s
1.composed of two turns
2.by different speakers
3.adjacently placed; that is, one after the other
4. these two turns are relatively ordered; that is, they are differentiated into " first pair parts"(FPPs, or Fs for short) and "second pair parts“(SPPs, or Ss for short). There are different types of adjacency pairs, for example, offer-acceptance/rejection, greeting-greeting, question-answer, complaint-excuse/remedy, and request-acceptance/denial
Video 5.7 What is adjacency pair ?
source from:https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CrlXebJlmt0
Figure 5.8 First pair part and second pair part
source from: https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=YhZ9jiJZsmM&pp=ygUPYWRqYWNlbmN5IHBhaXJz
The significance of adjacency pairs lies in their role in maintaining conversational flow and social norms, as they help speakers navigate interactions smoothly and ensure that responses are contextually pairs, we gain insight into the implicit rules that govern everyday communication, highlighting how language functions as a social tool for connection and understanding.
Although the word "pair" is used, we should not be misled by the word, as sometimes the first speaker would follow up on the second speaker's response. This sequence structure is referred to as a "three-part" exchange, with the third part called the 'follow-up move'. Continued use of terminology associated with 'adjacency pairs' and call such third parts 'consequences'. In such cases, the three utterances together are now called an exchange.
An exchange normally follows the IRF pattern: Initiation, response and follow up. A typical exchange in the classroom consists of an initiation by the teacher, followed by a response from the pupil, followed by feedback, to the pupil’s response from the teacher. (Sinclair,J. and Coulthard,A .1975)
Figure 5.10
Followed by a response from the pupil
source from: https://www.pexels.com/zh-cn/photo/7092348/
Figure 5.11
Followed by feedback, to the pupil’s response from the teacher
source from:https://www.pexels.com/zh-cn/photo/7092349/
In people’s daily lives, people don’t always respond positively. That means that our utterances may be ignored and rejected. Based on this situation responses can be divided into two categories: preferred responses and dis-preferred responses. “Preferred and dis-preferred” are possibly misleading terms here. Because it definitely does not refer to the speaker’s personal “preference” but to the structure of the language. "Preference" in this context refers to the observation that language is organized in such a way as to encourage linguistically "preferred" behaviors while linguistically "undesirable" behaviors are discouraged, thus limiting conflict.( Person, J. R. F. 2009).It simply means that positive answers are called preferred responses, and the negative ones termed dis-preferred responses.
Figure 5.12 No thank you
Figure 5. 13 A conversation about invitation
This type of response is known as preference organization presented in the structure of adjacency pairs. Two types of adjacency pairs then emerge: adjacency pairs with preferred second parts and neighboring pairs with dis-preferred second parts.
1.A: Are you free tonight?
B: Um… I’ve got some assignments to finish… Sorry.
2.A: By the way, are you up for coffee this week?
B: I’d love that! Let’s catch up and chat more about everything.
A: Perfect! Looking forward to it.
These can find that preferred responses are normally given straightforwardly, without delay, while dis-
preferred responses are quite often delayed, and are often characterized by starting a turn with “well” to “Um”.
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Conversation analysis is developed by :
A. Harvey Sacks
B. Albert Einstein
C. Harold Garfinkel
D. me
Answer: A
2. Conversation analysis data can be best obtained through the use of:
A. memorizing a conversation
B. observing a real conversation play out
C. creating a conversation
D. recording the conversation
Answer: D
3.Based on the passage, what do the terms "preferred responses" and "dis-preferred responses" refer to in conversation analysis.
A.Responses based on the speaker's personal preferences
B. Responses categorized by their emotional tone
C. Linguistically structured responses that indicate acceptance or rejection
D. Responses that reflect cultural differences in communication
Answer: C
4.What is the primary significance of adjacency pairs in conversation, as described in the passage?
A.They are used to measure the length of conversations.
B. They help maintain conversational flow and social norms.
C.They indicate the emotional tone of the interaction.
D. They serve as a method for language learning.
Answer: B
5.What are communication repairs primarily used for in conversations?
A.To change the subject
B.To address problems in speaking, hearing, or understanding
C.To introduce new topics
D.To end a conversation
Answer: B
6.Which type of communication overlap occurs when two speakers begin to talk at the same time?
A. Interruption
B.Backchanneling
C.Simultaneous Speech
D. Self-initiated repair
Answer: C
7.Which of the following correctly reflects how the "Turn-Allocation Mechanism" works?
A. The current speaker must explicitly designate the next speaker at the end of their turn, or the conversation cannot proceed.
B. If the current speaker does not designate the next speaker, other participants can self-select to take the turn, which might lead to overlaps or require negotiation.
C. If no one self-selects to speak, the conversation will naturally stop and cannot continue.
D. Cultural differences have no significant impact on the "Turn-Allocation Mechanism."
Answer: B
8.Which option best describes the importance of "Turn-Taking" in conversation?
A. It refers to the ability to express emotions in a dialogue, unrelated to the conversation's content.
B. It is a systematic process that ensures smooth exchanges between participants, maintaining social order and coherence.
C. It emphasizes the importance of words, phrases, and sentences but is unrelated to communication methods.
D. Its sole purpose is to avoid silence during conversations.
Answer: B
9. What is the definition of "attributable silence" mentioned above?
A. The complete absence of sound
B. A kind of silence that is meaningful even after relevance has disappeared
C. A kind of silence that is meaningful because it occurs in the absence of occurrence while still being relevant
D. A kind of silence that is highly dependent on culture, with different cultures having different norms of silence
Answer: C
10. According to the context, which of the following is not a psychological mechanism leading to organizational silence?
A. Employees' fear of negative repercussions
B. Lack of psychological safety
C. The influence of team climate on members' willingness to speak up
D. Excessive communication within the organization
Answer: D