Listen to the following lecture on the evolution of communication methods throughout history:
Professor: Good morning, class! Today, we will explore the fascinating journey of communication methods from ancient times to the present day. Initially, early humans relied on gestural language and simple sounds to convey messages. As societies evolved, written communication emerged, with the invention of hieroglyphics by the Egyptians and cuneiform by the Sumerians. Later, the invention of the printing press in the 15th century was a game changer, enabling the mass production of written texts. This development paved the way for the rapid dissemination of information and ideas. In the modern era, we’ve seen a revolution with digital communication. The internet and smartphones have drastically altered how we interact, allowing for instant messaging, video calls, and social media connections across the globe. Each of these advancements has not only transformed the methods we use to communicate but also how we relate to one another socially and culturally. In conclusion, understanding the history of communication reveals its profound impact on human interaction.
Note: This question has been adapted from its original format to accommodate a reading-based version. In the official TOEFL exam, speaking and listening sections require verbal responses and audio prompts, which are not represented here. Please note that this adaptation may not fully reflect the nature or difficulty of the official exam. The audio feature for these sections will be available soon.
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