Technical Communication Quarterly Jan 2022

The Ethics of Extrapolation: Science Fiction in the Technical Communication Classroom

Derek Lee Wake Forest University

Abstract

This article argues that science fiction is a powerful tool for teaching ethics in the technical communication classroom. As a literary genre, science fiction is uniquely situated to critique the social and political consequences of technological progress and to guide future behaviors. Using a speculative fiction-themed technical communication seminar as a case study, this essay demonstrates how science fiction theory, narratives, and projects can encourage students to think more holistically about their future roles as scientists and communicators. Such an approach can reinvigorate traditional workplace genres, support responsible decision-making, and promote multiculturalism, environmentalism, and social justice.

Journal
Technical Communication Quarterly
Published
2022-01-02
DOI
10.1080/10572252.2020.1866678
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Topics
genre theory teacher development technical communication qualitative research race and writing
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