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This unit looks at the enormous changes in communication that have taken place in the modern world and the resulting challenges. Changes in IT (information technology) mean that thanks to email, voicemail and mobile phones, we now communicate in a totally different way from a few decades ago. The complexity of the modern world can also bring related problems. We are now faced with infoglut or information overload; many people seem to spend more time reading and listening to email and voicemail messages than actually acting upon them. Another challenge is ensuring we make ourselves understood. It is easy to write an email which reaches another person in seconds but it is difficult to correct any misunderstandings that may arise, eg if the tone of the email has been too direct or if the other person has not recognised the humour or irony in the message. A further challenge is related to differences between age groups: eg some older people may feel excluded from the world of text messaging; they might even complain that educational standards are slipping and that young people are no longer capable of writing a well-crafted letter. Communication can also be a challenge at a more formal and official level. Organisations need to work out communication policies, ensuring the flow of information throughout the organisation (using an intranet and other mechanisms). Organisations and companise also need to be concerned about PR (public relations), ensuring that the image conveyed is what is required. This unit looks at different forms of communication: emails, voicemails and press releases etc. One of the most topical words in English today is spin (manipulating a message for a certain effect instead of giving information in a straightforward manner). In the final activity, Ss are asked which group has ‘spun’ the best story in their press release.