Using Independent Studies to Enhance Usability Assessment Skills in a Generalist Program

This experience report describes how two technical communication professors from Mercer University use focused, independent-study courses to help students advance beyond the general coverage of the technical communication curriculum to gain additional expertise in specific areas of technical communi...

Full description

Saved in:
Bibliographic Details
Main Authors: Watson, Robert B., Estes Brewer, Pam
Format: Conference Proceeding
Language:English
Subjects:
Advanced skills
Automobiles
Eye protection
Hardware
Independent study
Professional communication
Technical communication
Testing
Undergraduate research
Usability
Usability assessment
Visualization
Online Access:Request full text
Tags: Add Tag
No Tags, Be the first to tag this record!
Description
Summary:This experience report describes how two technical communication professors from Mercer University use focused, independent-study courses to help students advance beyond the general coverage of the technical communication curriculum to gain additional expertise in specific areas of technical communication. Specifically, we focus on the usability curriculum and how it is enhanced with such independent studies. We describe our experience with several substantive projects including work with the US Department of Homeland Security in the basic course and independent studies with Go Baby Go, visual-acuity simulations, and the development of a patient-information console. Each of these projects has provided undergraduate research opportunities and enhanced usability experiences for our students.
ISSN:2158-1002
DOI:10.1109/ProComm.2018.00015