An April 2008 study by the Pew Internet and American Life Project and the National Commission on Writing finds that 60 percent of teens don't view instant messaging, text messaging and other social writing as real writing. Instead, they view it merely as simple communication,
like a short chat.

The study found that 64 percent of teens have accidentally used text shortcuts like "LOL" in school writing. Only 11 percent of teens think that e-communication has harmed their writing abilities, while 27 percent of parents feel it has done damage (Peter Hildebrandt, "Pew Study Examines E-Communication's Impact on Teens' Writing," EContentmag.com, May 16, 2008).

Maintaining knowledge of traditional formal writing is a vital skill for students as they make their way through the shifting trends and protocols of technology.