Journal of Technical Writing and Communication Apr 2007

Orality and the Process of Writing

C. M. J. Van Woerkum

Abstract

The aim of this article is to show that a better awareness of the relationship between written and spoken communication can help the writer to improve his/her effectiveness. The focus will be on written texts that precede (formal and informal) discussions. The analysis will start with a description of the differences between orality and literacy. We shall deal with the functions of orality-based texts for the readers. Then we shall move to the writing process and explain how orality can find a place in this process, how it can be linked to creativity, and how it affects the way we plan the writing process. An oral way of writing is related to an important feature of speaking, namely fluency; but it also means a specific receiver orientation, dynamic rather than static and social rather than individual. Computer mediated communication could influence a more oral approach to written texts.

Journal
Journal of Technical Writing and Communication
Published
2007-04-01
DOI
10.2190/j181-tw15-7215-6271
Topics
affect and writing

Citation Context

Cited by in this index (3)

  1. Pochatko (2017)
    The Singer of Technology
    Journal of Technical Writing and Communication
  2. Woerkum (2012)
    The Active Reader: What is Active?
    Journal of Technical Writing and Communication
  3. Cibangu (2009)
    Oral Communication and Technical Writing: A Reconsideration of Writing in a Mul…
    Journal of Technical Writing and Communication

Cites in this index (3)

  1. Dombrowski (2002)
    Language and Empiricism
    Journal of Technical Writing and Communication
  2. CHENOWETH et al. (2001)
    Fluency in Writing
    Written Communication
  3. Dombrowski (2000)
    Ethics and Technical Communication: The Past Quarter Century
    Journal of Technical Writing and Communication
Also cites 14 works outside this index ↓
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  12. 10.1017/CBO9780511489990
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  14. van Woerkum C. M. J. & Aarts M. N. C. (2007). Creativity, planning and organisational change. To be published…
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CrossRef global citation count: 5 View in citation network →

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