Cross-Cultural Differences in Verbal And Visual Communication Have Implications for Interface Design for International Users: A Survey of International Students and Faculty at the University of Minnesota in Current Interfaces  

The purpose of this study is to find out how English speaking computers causes the inconvenience of the non- English speaking users, especially Chinese, Japanese and Korean. Because these oriental scripts are based on ancient Chinese ideographic characters. I want to explore the language and culture differences of the these countries which may be critical factors in determining how software tools can best accommodate different user groups at the U. of Minnesota. I hope, by conducting this research, I can gain insights into appropriateness of certain interaction technologies indifferent cultural environments.

McDowell, Earl E. and Pi-hai Sun. STC Proceedings (1994). Design>User Interface>Accessibility>International

Cross-Cultural Differences in Verbal And Visual Communication Have ImplicationsFor Interface Design for International Users: A Survey of International Studentsand Faculty at the University of Minnesota in Current Interfaces  

The purpose of this study is to find out how English speaking computers causes the inconvenience of non-English speaking users, especially Chinese, Japanese and Korean. Because these oriental scripts are based on ancient Chinese ideographic characters. I want to explore the language and culture differences of the these countries which may be critical factors in determining how software tools can best accommodate different user groups at the U. of Minnesota. I hope, by conducting this research, I can gain insights into appropriateness of certain interaction technologies indifferent cultural environments.

McDowell, Earl E. and Pi-hai Sun. STC Proceedings (1994). Design>User Interface>Accessibility>International

Scientific and Technical Communicators' Perceptions of the Performance Appraisal Interview  

This study surveys scientific and technical communicators to determine their perceptions of their role as interviewees in the performance appraisal interview. The results reveal that interviewees think the appraisal process is unreliable and invalid, that managers do not stimulate growth and development in the appraisal interview, and that subordinates have little influence concerning what goes on in the department. Other results are discussed in the paper.

McDowell, Earl E. STC Proceedings (1994). Careers>Management>Assessment

Student Internships in Technical Communication  

The internship is a very important part of the Scientific and Technical Communication program at the University of Minnesota. Through the internship students learn what it is like to work as technical communicators in the business setting and how to adapt to an organizational culture. The internship experience helps students research decisions about the type of technical communication work they would like to pursue and often leads to jobs offer after graduation. All undergraduate and graduate students are required to complete internships as part of their degree programs.

McDowell, Earl E. STC Proceedings (1997). Academic>Internships>TC