Usability Instruction in Technical Communication Programs

Lee-Ann M. Kastman Breuch University of Minnesota System ; Mark Zachry Utah State University ; Clay Spinuzzi Texas Tech University

Abstract

Although usability testing and research have become critical tasks for technical communicators in the workplace, little discussion in technical communication focuses on teaching usability in technical communication programs. This article asserts that technical communication programs are particularly well positioned to adopt usability testing and research in their curricula because of inherent connections between usability and technical communication, such as their mutual emphases on audience analysis, technology, and information design. Approaches to implementation of usability courses at three universities are described, and the authors share suggestions for adopting usability in the areas of curriculum, equipment, and facilities needed for conducting usability.

Journal
Journal of Business and Technical Communication
Published
2001-04-01
DOI
10.1177/105065190101500204
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Citation Context

Cited by in this index (11)

  1. Journal of Business and Technical Communication
  2. Journal of Technical Writing and Communication
  3. Journal of Technical Writing and Communication
  4. Journal of Technical Writing and Communication
  5. Computers and Composition
Show all 11 →
  1. Journal of Technical Writing and Communication
  2. Journal of Technical Writing and Communication
  3. Technical Communication Quarterly
  4. Journal of Business and Technical Communication
  5. Technical Communication Quarterly
  6. Journal of Technical Writing and Communication

Cites in this index (1)

  1. Technical Communication Quarterly
Also cites 4 works outside this index ↓
  1. 10.1109/47.44534
  2. 10.1109/47.44533
  3. 10.1145/318372.318385
  4. 10.1002/1520-6297(198907)5:4<361::AID-AGR2720050406>3.0.CO;2-E
CrossRef global citation count: 28 View in citation network →