Technical Communication

ENGL C151

CATALOG COURSE DESCRIPTION

This course stresses clarity and accuracy in written communication appropriate for technical fields, both in print and electronic forms. Students will gain the skills necessary to research, write, and edit effective content. They will learn to divide content into sections and organize those sections into a navigational structure. Students will also learn how to convert narrative data into visual elements and how to present such information accurately. Topics include formal and informal reports, letters, instructions, and the design elements of the technical writer�s job.

LEARNING OUTCOMES & ASSESSMENTS

Upon successful completion of the course, the student will be able to

Describe significant aspects of the technical communication environment, such as ethical and legal considerations, collaboration, and communication tools.
Analyze audience and purpose.
Evaluate, interpret, summarize, and abstract information from research and apply a documentation system, such as MLA.
Write and revise technical compositions for readability, clarity, conciseness, exactness, and freedom from major and minor grammatical errors.
Differentiate between features and benefits and write effective content to enhance the marketability and persuasiveness of communications.
Create information graphics and/or tabular data to communicate technical information.
Divide a large body of information into meaningful units and organize those units into a hierarchy of relationships.
Use principles of visual design to create usable documents.
Collaborate with others in the development of original content.