Journal of Technical Writing and Communication Jul 2015

Filter. Remix. Make.

Lisa Dusenberry Armstrong Atlantic State University ; Liz Hutter Georgia Institute of Technology ; Joy Robinson University of Alabama in Huntsville

Abstract

This article establishes traits of adaptable communicators in the 21st century, explains why adaptability should be a goal of technical communication educators, and shows how multimodal pedagogy supports adaptability. Three examples of scalable, multimodal assignments (infographics, research interviews, and software demonstrations) that evidence this philosophy are discussed in detail. Asking students to communicate multimodally drives them to effectively filter information, remix modes, and remake practices that are core characteristics of adaptable communicators. Beyond teaching students how to teach themselves as an essential part of living in an information society, contending with new and unfamiliar tools also prepares students for their roles as empathic mediators in the workplace.

Journal
Journal of Technical Writing and Communication
Published
2015-07-01
DOI
10.1177/0047281615578851
Open Access
Closed
Topics
multimodality technical communication

Citation Context

Cited by in this index (5)

  1. Tan et al. (2025)
    Purposeful remixing with generative AI: Constructing designer voice in multimod…
    Computers and Composition
  2. Overstreet et al. (2024)
    The “Multimodal Spiral”: Rethinking the Communication Curriculum at an English …
    Journal of Technical Writing and Communication
  3. Tham et al. (2023)
    Examining Multimodal Community-Engaged Projects for Technical and Professional …
    Journal of Technical Writing and Communication
  4. Robinson et al. (2019)
    State of the Field: Teaching with Digital Tools in the Writing and Communicatio…
    Computers and Composition
  5. Blevins (2018)
    Teaching Digital Literacy Composing Concepts: Focusing on the Layers of Augment…
    Computers and Composition

Cites in this index (9)

  1. Baepler et al. (2014)
    The Digital Manifesto: Engaging Student Writers with Digital Video Assignments
    Computers and Composition
  2. Fraiberg (2013)
    Reassembling Technical Communication: A Framework for Studying Multilingual and…
    Technical Communication Quarterly
  3. Rude (2009)
    Mapping the Research Questions in Technical Communication
    Journal of Business and Technical Communication
  4. Spilka (2009)
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    Journal of Business and Technical Communication
  5. Brumberger (2007)
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    Journal of Business and Technical Communication
Show all 9 →
  1. Maier et al. (2007)
    Multimodal Analysis: An Integrative Approach for Scientific Visualizing on the Web
    Journal of Technical Writing and Communication
  2. Spinuzzi (2007)
    Guest Editor's Introduction: Technical Communication in the Age of Distributed Work
    Technical Communication Quarterly
  3. Starke-Meyerring et al. (2007)
    Global Partnerships: Positioning Technical Communication Programs in the Contex…
    Technical Communication Quarterly
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    Technical Communication Quarterly
Also cites 5 works outside this index ↓
  1. 10.1177/1080569905278863
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  2. 10.2307/j.ctt6wrbkn.10
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  5. 10.2307/3195309
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CrossRef global citation count: 12 View in citation network →

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