Proxemics and Chronemics are how we use space and time. In both cases there are concepts and theories as to how we can manipulate a situation with time and space. In proxemics, we get to decide how we can use the space around us to help you achieve a goal. For instance, in teaching we can use both of these concepts to organize a class and be more effective. During a discussion based class, I can set up the room in a circle so that we can engage each other when we are talking as a group and get verbal as well
as nonverbal cues from the class. When I want a classroom to set up, I can tell my students that they only have a certain amount of time to get that task done. Time limits get things done faster. One rule of time we hear is the 80/20 rule. 80% of the work gets done in the last 20% of the time. So when projects are assigned, teachers can keep this in mind. in proxemics, we can think about what the best space is for the numbers in each group or to create a comfortable space for people to work together. One study of proxemics suggest there are predictions we make about how close someone will stand to us and when those expectations are not met, it effects our decisions. These rules of space and time are not general across cultures, but they do exist in every culture and if you don't follow along when you are in a different or unfamiliar culture, you could get an unfavorable response from the locals.
Good evening Blanch, you posted a very good post on proxemics and chronemics. Yes there are rules of space and time and unfortunately they are written for everyone to see. For example when I was in Afghanistan and when we arrived we were greeted with kisses from girls and guys. Now most guys would think that getting kisses from girls would be ok, but that was not the case. They smelled real bad, we didn't want to say anything because we didn't want to get unfavorable response from the locals so we just had to say that we were not allowed to display an public affection. When we were there we used to tease the younger Marines that the Afghan people would get close just like we predicted. So the study holds true since I experienced this first hand.
ReplyDeleteGood job and keep up the good work.