Academic and Practitioner Perspectives on Essential Works in Technical Communication

As I began to create categories for a list collected from many academics and practitioners, I discovered a dramatic difference in the works valued by the two groups. While some works were valued by both practitioners and academics, I also found a clear dividing line between works recommended by academics and those recommended by practitioners.

Alred, Gerald J. ATTW Bulletin (2005). Resources>Bibliographies>Technical Writing

Essential Works on Technical Communication    

Presents an annotated list of 115 essential works on technical communication compiled from a list of over 600 titles from a wide variety of print, Internet, and professional sources. Constitutes what might be called 'essential literacy' in technical communication.

Alred, Gerald J. Technical Communication Online (2003). Resources>Bibliographies>TC

Review of Technical Communication Programs Outside the United States    

This review examines technical communication programs outside the United States and comments on such features as their location in the university structure, links with public relations, the inclusion of internships or practicums, the balance of theory and practice, and typical courses offerings. It also provides a listing (including Web addresses) of a dozen major programs in seven countries. The review concludes that programs abroad share many features and goals with programs in the United States and suggests how international programs can illustrate the value of technical communication in the global marketplace.

Alred, Gerald J. Journal of Business and Technical Communication (2001). Articles>Education>International