He made the comparison that while architects see a building for its structure, others simply walk through it without taking notice of structural specifics. In order to be successful at learning, Gee said, it is necessary to become conscious of the structure of language. The social language principle implies that any type of learning involves being aware of specific social languages. These languages not only include spoken words, but gestures, body language and attitudes. Similarly, the discourse principle identifies how an individual thinks, acts and feels.
Primary discourses begin within a family setting.
Secondary discourses develop in more specific settings as individuals branch out into career and social niches. The situated meanings principle states that words alone have no meaning. In different contexts, the same words can have various meanings. The only way to discover these meanings, Gee said, is through practice. Carol Berkenkotter, a visiting professor in the Department of Rhetoric, said the ideas Gee introduced could enhance her own teaching methods.