Chapter 2: Digital Rhetoric - Theory updates the 5 Canons in a digitally rhetorical manner with classic definitions as well as digital practice (75). This is helpful and supportive in looking back at Chapter 1, especially in terms as to how media is referenced inside the Canon structure, which I felt was extremely helpful. Chapter 2 looks at Network Rhetorics as well as Network Methods to consider. I discovered the definition of the Rhetorical Situation to be illuminating - honing in on audience, exigence, and constraints that displayed the variety of established argument in digital spaces. The aspect of Digital Identity was interesting as well in a sense that it speaks to postmodern ideas about technology use and the body. Killingsworth establishes the cyberhuman aspect of this when he says, “Becoming users of the body rather than a body itself, we are prone to overuse or even abuse the body” (78). This initial concept is intriguing from a social network/interactive point of view that is outlined in the next chapter. The idea of communicating or interacting with individuals but also lineating interactivity with “bots” seems conflicting and challenging to navigate - as Killingsworth discusses.
Chapter 3: Digital Rhetoric - Method emphasizes Network analysis, Server/Log Analysis, as well as Social Network Analysis (SNA). The SNA seemed most important here, especially since the digital natives that are utilizing current app structures are modifying/changing how interactions are conducted in that specific space.
Chapter 4: Digital Rhetoric - Practice seems most beneficial here in its discussion of practice, publication, and rhetoric in action in the digital form. It seemed like this section of the text could have been expanded upon since it was applicable and informative in nature. The discussion of Arroyo’s syllabus and class, along with Hawk’s and the author’s classes gave an outline that seems to mirror our own in this course. The aspects of scholarship and digital examples provide a framework for the whole project, which is well received - but also seems like an expansion can be given.
Chapter 1 seemed most vital in terms of breaking down the definitions and concepts of digitalized rhetoric. The first component that seemed most helpful was Digital Multiliteracies - these are defined as “...multiple linguistic, audio, and symbolic visual graphics of hypertext...software driven-meanings” (48). This term encompasses an entire platform of “things” that are utilized in digital media, networks, and interactions on a daily basis - meaning that multiliteracy is necessary for analysis, critique, and fundamental usage for anyone interacting in a digital manner.
Chapter 1 also decodes the 5 Principles of New Media which is very interesting. While 2 different sets of definitions are provided, one focuses on function: Numerical Representation, Modularity, Automation, Variability, and Transcoding. The second list focuses on observable features: Integration, Interactivity, Hypermedia, Immersion, and Narrativity. This set seemed vital for expanding the horizons as to how New Media is being altered and embraced by user and designer.
Chapter 4 focused on the physical application of Digital Rhetoric, specifically in terms of digital rhetoric being used as a means of persuasion. Two items struck me as interesting and moved me to pursue for further analysis. Wright’s Propaganda Remix Project is very interesting and already has me thinking of lesson plans for further use. Sean Tevis’ comic strip for his Kansas State Representative Campaign also moved me to consider digital rhetoric in the scope of politics.
After reading Eyman’s text, I comprehended the rationale of the project and the intention to describe what Digital Rhetoric is. The conjunction of terms, theory, methodology, and practice seemed immersed in various avenue’s for producing meaning and aiding in discussion of applicable terms. My issue (as well as question) with the project was the brief intersection of practice in relation to theory and definition. While all parts of the text seemed to be in unison to answer the thesis, the practicality of applying digital rhetoric from a teacher’s perspective may need more scaffolding and specific structures for application.
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