Overview

When we look at and use our digital technologies, it is extremely rare that we ever question how it functions the way it does. We as individuals mindlessly scroll through applications, social media, and click buttons but what really goes on behind the scenes that makes what we intend to do actually happen? Code is the backbone of a platform. It is what drives their functions and allows application developers to create an innovative outlet for people to use. Being able to use code on platforms is key for developing the functionality.

Code is essentially the way we communicate. In the world of technology it is one of the most helpful and essential tools out there. Not only is it a way to communicate but code can be used to influence individuals. Code is overall a language that must be understood when looking at how it shapes and functions with different actions. In order to understand code, we first need to understand platforms. A platform is a digital space that allows developers to create information, share information, and interact with software. In this generation some of the most common platforms are social media platforms known as Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, TikTok, and Snapchat.

How Do Platforms Function?

A platform itself has many ways it can function. When it comes to user interaction, we can discuss human computer interaction also known as HCI. This is essentially what makes applications and technology user friendly. User interaction also makes users able to interact and engage in content or applications. With this comes code, code tells these platforms how to perform and exactly how to behave.

HTML and CSS

HyperText Markup Language also known as HTML, is the standard format and building block for all websites online. A simple way to think about it is basically a skeleton of a website. It gives instructions to a computer what content to display like headings, paragraphs, pictures, or even links. HTML ensures there is a title at the top, it organizes texts into sections, and it adds pictures or videos where they should be located. Without this tool websites pretty much would not exist as it’s what makes the page appear when you first click on a website link. Cascading Style Sheets also known as CSS is the skin of the skeleton and clothing. This is what makes the website look pretty and where it gets its aesthetic from. It is in charge of colors, fonts, layouts and where things are placed where they are. They both work together as a team for example, HTML will create a heading that states “Welcome” CSS will make the heading black, centered to the page, and a large font. These are both essential functions that are used to create a website. Ultimately they are what make a website functional and visually appealing to the users.

Back then, HTML began as a basic way to structure text and links on the page itself. With the implementations it has become more powerful which gave developers the ability to add more to a website. They now have the ability to add images, videos, charts, and so much more. CSS started simple with changing color and size of fonts. Over time it is now so much more advanced, we now have complex layouts, moving gifs and animations, and so much more. In todays time this is what makes modern websites appealing on all devices ranging from phones to computers.

Rhetoric Is in Code

Rhetoric is a form of persuasion towards a particular audience and a way to communicate. In other words, it is how we use communication to influence and persuade others. Usually this is performed with the words we speak or even writing, but it can be seen in actions and visuals. Rhetoric relates to code because code is how humans communicate with computers and other technology. It can also carry messages to people who directly use that technology. What this means is that code itself can have rhetoric by influencing people without them even realizing it.

We see this within different applications we use on a daily basis. In terms of social media, the certain algorithms behind the platform decide exactly what to show you and when. The best example and most popular example would be TikTok’s “for you page.” This page on the platform is literally all content that is geared towards what you like, what places are near you, and even content your friends like or interact with can show up. This isn’t a coincidence or random in the slightest, this is specifically done to keep you as an audience member engaged. By the platform showing you post that you like, the platform is persuading you to stay scrolling for long periods at a time. This is the most common and subtle way that code can shape behavior.

Platforms also use code to create a very simple user friendly design for a person. Things we may not think twice about such as buttons, menus, and the layout are all coded strategically to make a person feel comfortable in the digital space they are using. This again goes along with rhetoric directly using design to influence the actions and feelings as a platform user. This matters because code and rhetoric both pave the path of how we as individuals interact with technology on a daily basis. When we are able to understand this, we are able to think critically about the platforms that we use and ask ourselves, why are these spaces designed the way they are? What message are they trying to send to us? Overall, it makes us open our eyes and become more aware of the spaces we engage with everyday.

Procedural Rhetoric

Procedural rhetoric is the way that steps and systems communicate messages or shape certain behavior. Processes essentially persuade or guide a person. For example, think about the exact steps you take to play a certain video game, or even the steps you take to purchase a concert ticket online. Code connects to procedural rhetoric as well because when platforms or applications are made, the developers who created the space write the code to behave the way they intended it to. The processes and rules in code influence how we as individuals interact with technology and even how we may feel at times while using it.

Another example includes filling out paperwork online. The order of questions it is presented in and required section fields are all a part of a process that is designed to collect specific information. This structure is what guides a users actions. You may be asking yourself why this is so important. This goes along with regular rhetoric in the sense that procedural rhetoric shapes our choices, actions, and behaviors. Being able to understand it may have you also wonder why platforms are designed the way they are and what specific behaviors does it encourage.

Why Does Understanding Code Matter?

Being able to understand code and the basics of coding can help a person begin to critically understand and think about the digital spaces we use on a daily basis. Code holds so much purpose, it doesn’t just come down to the technical side but it shapes certain decisions, it holds and carries messages, and it affects how a person experiences the digital world. Being informed and knowing how these systems work can help you navigate digital spaces with confidence and awareness.