The Gestural Mode

Communication happens using every sense and every part of our bodies. One way we often talk about, but rarely outside of the Speech classroom is through facial expression and body language. It is difficult to talk about something that is embodied and tacit in nature. We just do it. So why talk about it? Right?

Gesture is a highly useful rhetorical avenue that aligns closely with the visual and spatial modes, as well as elegantly punctuating the verbal forms of the linguistic mode. The rhetor can create purposeful actions that communicate meaning in a silent message to their audiences. Gestures can demonstrate, direct, or describe concepts to the messages’ recipients in ways that words fail to do.

Exploring the Gestural Mode

These video files below explore different facets of the gestural mode.

Layla Alkhafaji

Gestures, Accessibility, and Digital Communication: Understanding the Gestural Mode Through an Accessibility Lens

Description: This Microsoft Sway examines how gestures function as an essential communication mode for users who primarily rely on visual, spatial, or movement-based cues rather than text or speech. Through examples like video clarity, captioning, alt text, cultural differences, and motor accessibility, it highlights how digital platforms often overlook users who depend on gestural communication. The project emphasizes that even strong visuals can leave gaps with low vision, neurodivergent processing differences, or limited mobility. By exploring both the strengths and limitations of the gestural mode, it argues for more adaptive, multimodal accessibility tools that create more inclusive digital environments.

Neph Irvin

Gestures Within Cluster B Personality Disorders

Description: This project showcases the gestural mode by examining how movements, facial expressions, and body language appear in individuals with Cluster B personality types, including Antisocial Personality Disorder (ASPD), Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD), Histrionic Personality Disorder (HPD), and Narcissistic Personality Disorder (NPD). The analysis provides some context regarding what Cluster B personality disorders are, common myths surrounding the personality type, and an outline of the DSM-5 criteria to ground the discussion. The research is combined with insight from a licensed therapist, as well as examples and visuals from creators who live with these disorders. The aim of the presentation is to inform, not diagnose, and to provide a clearer understanding of how these disorders may physically manifest.