Bradley Dilger, Spring 2010
STAR# 47728: Quad Cities, section TQ1, WIU-QC Moline, room TBD.
STAR# 47727: Macomb, section 200, Tillman Hall 301D.
Tuesdays and Thursdays, 11:00a-12:15p.
In the Quad Cities, the course is taught primarily via videoconferencing (CODEC). I will make at least two trips to the QC during the semester (tentatively Mon 2/1, Thu 2/18, Mon 3/8, Thu 3/25, Mon 4/5, and Thu 4/29).
This course is designed to provide an introduction to technical communication, the art and craft of writing useful, informative, reader-centered communication. Our focus will be the methodologies technical communicators use to develop all kinds of spoken and written forms—specifically, usability and persuasiveness. We will consider communication problems related to presenting specialized or difficult material to non-technical audiences, understanding the forms often involved in the production of technical communication, evaluating audiences and customizing material for them, and best practices for working in environments where communication is critically important.
There will be three major assignments: job market materials, instructions, and a semester project. Active participation and a comprehensive final examination are also required.
The course will be similar to those I've taught in the past. See my Spring 2007 syllabus to learn what to expect, and contact me if you have questions.
If you purchase the text online, use the ISBN number to ensure you get the proper edition. A new edition is being published in March, so make every effort to buy the text used.
Bradley Dilger,
Associate Professor of English,
Western Illinois U
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