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IME 1020 - Technical Communication
Catalog Description:
Principles of objective presentation of factual material in written, oral, and electronic communication, with emphasis on the research process. Content, format, and mechanics, as well as a clear, concise style are important components of individual and collaborative assignments.
Prerequisites & Corequisites: Prerequisite: ENGL 1000 or placement into College-level writing.
Credits: 3 hours
Lecture Hours - Laboratory Hours: (3 - 0)
IME 1020 fulfills the requirement for General Education Writing Course, Proficiency 1.
Prerequisites by Topic:
- The ability to take organized notes from a lecture and outline salient points in a college text.
- A basic knowledge of the essential elements of English grammar, mechanics, and sentence structure- determined by a screening exam and writing sample at the outset of the semester; students who score belowthe mean for Western students will be referred to the Writing Center for tutoring.
- Familiarity with computerized word processing software.
- Some familiarity with the research process, including the electronic library systems and standardized research formats.
Course Objectives, Performance Criteria, and Outcomes:
Course Objectives |
ABET- |
Performance Criteria Measured1 |
|
|---|---|---|---|
Demonstrate careful editing and proofreading skills in composing technical documents and selecting proper formats and styles for intended audiences |
G/g | G3/g3: Compose a series of correctly formatted and clearly and concisely written letters, memorandums, and proposals |
|
| Using secondary information, organize and write a short research paper in APA format on a current technical or scientific topic in the student’s intended area of study | G/g* | G3/g3: Write a research paper of appropriate length and depth (specified in course Study Guide) that reflects mastery of writing and research skills and development of critical thinking |
|
| Develop oral presentation skills for specific situations and audiences | G/g | G4/g4: Present findings from research paper to the class using appropriate delivery skills and visual aids |
|
| Understand the importance of lifelong and service learning by attending university, college lectures and sponsored activities, and/or student professional society meetings | I/h | I2/h2: File timely activity reports to verify attendance at and to reflect on the significance of the event |
|
| Explore and enhance professional career options | h* | h3: Successfully complete two or more career development activities by writing an employment letter, résumé, or career report, and/or attending Career Services presentations or activities and/or registering with the BroncoJobs database |
Performance Criteria1: IME performance criteria may be found at http://www.wmich.edu/ime/performance-criteria.html
ABET-EAC/TAC Outcomes2: Outcomes may be found at http://www.abet.org/
*results tracked in ABET course notebooks
Textbooks:
Gurak, L., & Lannon, J. M. (2010). Strategies for technical communication in the workplace. New York: Pearson-Longman.
Aaron. (2008). The Little, Brown essential handbook (6th ed.). New York: Pearson-Longman.
A study guide to IME 1020: Technical Communication. (2010). Stipes Publishing.
Course Coordinator:
Thomas Swartz
Western Michigan University
F-224 Parkview Campus
Kalamazoo, Michigan 49008-5336
Phone: 276-3376
Email: thomas.swartz@wmich.edu
Revision Date: Summer 2011