Oct 282015
By seeing writing as artificial, we can treat it as unrelated to natural processes, which means it is a skill that’s possible to hone. This extends to general communication. Although Emig describes talking as an “irrespressible behavior,” it’s a behavior that can be improved. We can learn to be more eloquent and organized in our speech, just as in writing. Seeing communication as artificial can also prompt students to question what’s normally accepted as truth. When knowledge is viewed as subjective instead of inherent, it can be commented on and subjected to debate. Prompting this kind of critical thinking relative to natural assumptions is the ultimate goal of education.