Technical Writing – WRIT 633
CG • Section 8WK • 11/08/2019 to 04/16/2020 • Modified 02/01/2024
Course Description
This course helps students develop skill sets for writing manuals, instructions, policy documents, and technical reports in areas such as science, medicine, and engineering that require accessible information for a variety of audiences.
For information regarding prerequisites for this course, please refer to the Academic Course Catalog.
Rationale
The field of technical writing is evolving, and employers need elite-level writers who can communicate ideas effectively with precision. Scientific writing, business writing, technical reporting, and manual writing are all pillars of the field, each with its own set of standards. By developing an awareness for the different types of technical writing, students will better understand the functional nature of the field and become adept at communicating complex concepts.
Course Assignment
Course Requirements Checklist
After reading the Course Syllabus and Student Expectations, the student will complete the related checklist found in the Course Overview.
Discussions (4)
Discussions are collaborative learning experiences. Therefore, the student is required to submit a thread in response to the provided prompt for each discussion. Each thread must be at least 400 words and demonstrate course-related knowledge. In addition to the thread, the student is required to reply to 2 classmates' threads. Each reply must be at least 200 words.
Scientific Writing Review Assignment
Students will analyze a provided article in 1,200 words, focusing on quality (tone, word choice, professionalism, etc), possible resonation with intended audience, as well as an overall review of the article.
SWOT Analysis Assignment
Students will create a SWOT Analysis for a consulting firm. Students will also provide a review of their SWOT Analysis including explanation, review of tone and language, and explanation of layout.
Procedure Report Assignment
Students will provide a 300 word technical procedure document for a regularly performed task/project. Students will also provide a 600 word analysis, explaining rationale for their procedural report.
Manual Development Assignment
Students will create a 1,000 word instruction/user manual that isn't currently in existence, for their own selected system, product, or service. Students will also provide a 1,500 word analysis of their manual, including 5 outside sources substantiating their technical writing choices for their manual.
