Multimodal Analysis of Online Communication: A Study of Emojis, Memes and GIFs
In the age of social media, online communication has become increasingly multimodal with the use of visual elements such as emojis, memes and GIFs. This study aims to explore how these visual elements are used in online communication and how they contribute to meaning-making.
Drawing on a multimodal discourse analysis approach, this study will examine the use of emojis, memes and GIFs in various online contexts such as social media platforms, messaging apps and forums. The analysis will focus on the semiotic resources used in these visual elements, including their form, color, layout and position within texts.
The study will also investigate the social functions of these visual elements in different contexts. For example, do certain emojis or memes have particular meanings in specific communities or cultures? Do they convey emotions more effectively than words alone? How do they contribute to humor or irony?
Finally, the study will consider the implications of these findings for language teaching and learning. Given that many language learners use social media platforms for language practice and interaction with speakers of other languages, it is important to understand how visual elements are used in these contexts.
Overall, this study seeks to shed light on the complex nature of online communication through a multimodal lens and contribute to our understanding of how meaning is created in digital environments.




