Course Description

Writing in the professional domains, with an emphasis on research methods, clear and accurate presentation of ideas and data, and computer-mediated communication.

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Athena Title

Technical Professional Comm

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Non-Traditional Format

This course will be taught as writing intensive, which means that the course will include substantial and ongoing writing assignments that a) relate clearly to course learning; b) teach the communication values of a discipline—for example, its practices of argument, evidence, credibility, and format; and c) prepare students for further writing in their academic work, in graduate school, and in professional life. The written assignments will result in a significant and diverse body of written work (the equivalent of 6000 words or 25 pages) and the instructor (and/or the teaching assistant assigned to the course) will be closely involved in student writing, providing opportunities for feedback and substantive revision.

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Prerequisite

ENGL 1102 or ENGL 1102M

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Semester Course Offered

Offered every year.

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Grading System

A - F (Traditional)

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Student Learning Outcomes

• Students will practice, through a variety of written assignments that may take place both in and out of class, the elements of strategic or professional writing intended to impart technical or organizational information.
• Students will learn to consider various audiences.
• Students will practice presenting ideas and data clearly and accurately.
• Students will become familiar with computer-mediated communication.

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Topical Outline

• The choice of topics will vary from instructor to instructor and semester to semester, ranging in emphasis from the purely technical world of manuals and documentation to purely organizational genres of technical communication.
• Students should become familiar with identifying and practicing in their own written work the conventions for job search paperwork, internal memos, feasibility reports, procedural manuals, and executive summaries.
• In all cases, however, the course will require students to write at least 6000 words over the course of the semester and to focus in a sustained and engaged manner upon writing as a process.

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Institutional Competencies

Communication

The ability to effectively develop, express, and exchange ideas in written, oral, interpersonal, or visual form.

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Syllabus

Select Faculty / Instructor to download syllabus:   Howard, James   Howard, James   Robinson, Emily

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