Provides an introduction to research methodologies that flow largely from practical issues related to information design. Requirements include a report on document design that demonstrates solid application of theoretical principles. Should be taken as soon as possible after admission. Course examines the responsibilities of an editor, including the skills and talents necessary to become a successful editor. Focus is on developmental editing, copyediting, editing graphics, and editing electronic documents.
Course prepares students to write a journal-quality article or a master's thesis.
Introduces methods of quantitative and qualitative inquiry used in technical communication research, develops the skills for conducting a search and review of literature, teaches techniques of collecting and analyzing data, and covers the elements of a formal research report. Strongly encouraged for students who choose the thesis option. An introduction to the fundamental elements and principles of graphic design and application of these concepts to page design and layout. Study of elementary color theory. Introduction to production techniques and current software applications.