Communication is a key element in the creative industry. Whatever the project may be there are various levels and forms of communication that need to be fulfilled to make the project successful. Knowing how important communication is, this leads me to a form of communication that holds a special place in my heart. Primate communication. The communication between primates and humans has always intrigued me, but as I have learned the importance of communication I am fascinated by these animals and their ability to communicate with humans and each other.
You may be asking yourself how does a primate really communicate with a human if it can’t speak? When a primate communicates to a human, they use a lexigram machine to speak for them. The symbols on the computer represent different items that the primate understands, such as juice, banana, or sue (which is name of the caretaker). When asked to find an item the primate will push the button with the certain symbol on it and the computer will say the word for them. When Primates are trying to communicate to their caretakers that they would like something, they will push the button and the computer will speak. Gum and M&M’s are their favorite things to ask for. Primates are also capable of comprehending novel sentences. If asked to do something, they are able to comprehend and perform the request. The development of primate communication is in the early stages, but as long as the growth of communication between the two species is taking place, there is a lot of knowledge that can be gained. Obviously communicating with a primate is not at the top of the priorities list for the creative industry, but there is no harm in learning how others communicate, hairy or not! There is also no harm in smiling when a chimpanzee chews gum!
Nicole Klingensmith