Alima is having a "co-present" type of interaction. This term refers to situations where individuals are physically present with each other but are also engaging in communication with others through devices like phones or laptops. In this scenario, Alima is with her best friend at the diner, but they are both texting other people while chit-chatting. This simultaneous engagement in face-to-face and mediated communication characterizes a co-present interaction.
This type of interaction has become increasingly common in today's digital age, where individuals often multitask by engaging in both offline and online conversations simultaneously. Co-present interactions can have implications for social dynamics, attention, and the depth of communication between the individuals involved.
