Since the 1990s, rapidly evolving communication technology has changed many of the ways we live and interact with one another. Before then, people wrote letters and used their landline telephones to stay in touch with friends and family members. Now you are far more likely to use text messages, emails, and social media instead. Back then, people had no choice but to visit the library to begin a research project, but now most students can access quality library resources online. Rather than commuting to your job every day, you may end up telecommuting from remote locations, using mobile devices such as laptops or smartphones to stay connected with colleagues and clients.
How do these trends relate to public speaking? These technological changes have created more options for public speakers to reach an audience. But face-
Many remote classes—