부산대학교 도서관

During the past decade, instructors of speech communication have been adapting the introductory speech course to keep up with the television age. Learning units in speech textbooks now teach how to speak well on television, as well as how to interpret speeches in the media. This article argues that the computer age invites adaptation of the introductory speech course because of the proliferation of online communication in the form of Facebook, YouTube, Skype, and other communication platforms. In addition to cultural forces driving the use of emerging technologies, career services professionals and employers note that digital communication skills are imperative in today's competitive job market. In fact, the future of college recruiting is changing through social networking and online communication mediums such as Facebook, LinkedIn, Twitter, and YouTube. With the increased use of online communication among employers, it is not surprising that students will need to practice and fine-tune their online presence. Students will need to be educated and supported in developing appropriate communication skills through emerging online mediums if they are to be considered likely job candidates upon graduation. Video interviewing and participation in virtual career fairs are two current recruitment trends that are likely to continue. Through online platforms such as YouTube, students are able to become more professional in online communication. Not only can students view how they may come across to potential employers or others who watch them, but they will learn which communication skills need improvement. Incorporating the digital speech of self in a communication course enables students to see the importance of a professional digital presence and to start practicing early. Simply put: to be competitive, students must hone their digital communication skills, as well as their media skills. This article describes a digitally recorded speech of self that has been added to the basic speech communication course at The Pennsylvania State University, Lehigh Valley campus. A list of references and suggested readings is included.