Prior to taking this course I would not have been able to give a definition of discourse that was remotely accurate. Therefore, understanding the concept of discourse and discourse communities has been a bit challenging. Reading this excerpt by Swales has really allowed me to further my understanding of discourse communities.
One section in particular really stood out to me. In Section 2.3, “A Conceptualization of Discourse Community”, Swales expands on the ideas we spoke about in class. I think that this resonated with me the most because it allowed me to solidify my ideas formed in our class discussion.
The point of feedback being essential to a discourse community was hard to grasp at first. Swales states on page 221 “Individuals might pay an annual subscription to the Acoustical Society of America but if they never open any of its communications they cannot be said to belong to the discourse community, even though they are
formally members of the society.” This single sentence allowed me to understand what is meant by the participatory mechanisms being used to provide feedback.
Swales also touched on how the feedback or exchange of information may serve a different purpose based on the community. For example, feedback in my coaching job would be used to improve my players. However, at The Turning Point, feedback may be used to improve my sales and tips. It is important for me to understand different examples relating to one concept.
I also begun to think about the different discourse communities I am apart of. I realized there are definitely more than I would have anticipated. Whether it is a basketball team, my jobs coaching/serving food, or sports writing groups I am apart of, each has it’s own unique identity.
I now understand what makes these groups discourse communities.
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