What is the primary focus of Jefferson transcription in conversation analysis?

The primary focus of Jefferson transcription in conversation analysis is identifying changes in speech patterns. This method is designed to capture the nuances of spoken language, including pauses, intonation, stress, and overlaps in conversation, allowing researchers to analyze how these elements influence communication. By meticulously detailing how individuals speak, Jefferson transcription enables analysts to detect subtle shifts in speech that may indicate various aspects of social interaction, such as turn-taking, hesitations, or changes in topic, which are crucial for understanding conversational dynamics.

While content of speech, structuring ideas, and building theoretical models are important aspects of conversation analysis, they do not encapsulate the specific aim of Jefferson transcription. Jefferson's approach emphasizes the form and flow of dialogue over merely summarizing what is being said, thus providing a more in-depth analysis of the conversations studied.