This course focuses on technical communication skills. It introduces the types of information commonly produced by technical writers. Participants integrate the fundamental technical-writing strategies with the principles of print and online document design to create information that is effective and appropriate to specific audiences. Participants assess and improve a document draft's organization, clarity, conciseness and consistency.
The course includes practical experience in writing technical information, analyzing tasks, negotiating with subject-matter experts, setting production schedules and managing multiple projects. In this course the instructor will address how to apply technical writing strategies to various types of technical information; determine appropriate formats for technical audiences; identify styles, standards and design for online and print documents; and demonstrate the life cycle of technical writing projects.
For Online Sections of this course: Online courses are largely self-study with instructor support through threaded discussion groups, email and sometimes scheduled online chats. Some instructors may allow students to pace themselves following the published syllabus, enabling them to accelerate through the material and finish early. However, all students must complete and submit all assignments by the schedule end date. Grades are issued for the entire class approximately two weeks after the scheduled end date.
Successful completion of "Technical Communication: An Introduction to the Profession" and "Grammar and Style for Technical Communicators" is recommended before enrolling for this course.
