Technical Communication Quarterly Jul 2001

Ethics of Engagement: User-Centered Design and Rhetorical Methodology

Michael J. Salvo

Abstract

Abstract This article explores the shift from observation of users to participation with users, describing and investigating three examples of user-centered design practice in order to consider the new ethical demands being made of technical communicators. Pelle Ehn's participatory design method, Roger Whitehouse's design of tactile signage for blind users, and the design of an online writing program are explored for the creation of a dialogic design ethic. The development of effective collaborative design methods requires meaningful communication between users and designers, and dialogic ethics can guide the development of effective and humane technological design methods.

Journal
Technical Communication Quarterly
Published
2001-07-01
DOI
10.1207/s15427625tcq1003_3
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Topics
rhetorical criticism collaborative writing technical communication disability studies
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Citation Context

Cited by in this index (49)

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