Outlines Willard Van Orman Quine's theory of language in the generation of empirical knowledge, gleaned from two works from his voluminous ouvre. Draws connections between Quine's theory and that of Richard Rorty, the American pragmatist philosopher. Sketches how this theoretical perspective can be applied in the technical communication classroom…

Uses the term "shape shifting" to describe a set of evolving, institutionalized practices that are open to both dark and benign interpretations. Discusses ways to foster diversity. Presents a practical guide on how graduate programs can be more proactive in preparing students for positions that demand a diversity of specialization and skills. (SG)

Outlines four goals of the ideal literate self and describes them as an active response to various abuses of the "political potential of the personal." Recognizes that literacy is a trope and poses a literate self in the interest of social justice. Discusses four abuses and three examples regarding the politics of critical affirmation.…

Suggests how the teaching of "you-attitude" (or "you-perspective") in business communication classes can be enhanced by using politeness theories, case grammar, and information structure. Uses a brief written announcement to show how these linguistic theories can inform specific writing strategies. Suggests that a "you-attitude" is gradable…

Presents an interview with Randy Powell, an author who has published several novels about teenagers who are finding their way through unsettled lives. Shares his belief that when you write from the heart, you do not have any choice about the themes and stories you write; they choose you as much as you choose them. (SG)

Discusses the use of literature clusters (8 to 12 children's books on a particular topic) to enhance learning and instruction. Concludes that the process of developing a literature cluster on intergenerational relationships will result in a cluster that expresses both the participants' experiences and their understanding of the intended audience.…

Audio- or videotaping and one-way mirrors are often used in clinical supervision. Yet, the effects of audio- or videotaping on supervisees have yielded equivocal results. Some studies suggest that audio- or videotaping increases trainee anxiety and hinders performance, whereas other studies suggest negligible effects. The authors present 2 studies…

A controversial new curriculum unveiled this month at one of the nation's leading journalism schools is sparking heated debate over the role that marketing and technology should play in the education of future reporters and broadcasters. The most controversial change, though, is the increased emphasis on "audience understanding." Some praise the…

While peer observation of teaching is regarded as an important part of a faculty member's promotion and tenure portfolio, little has been reported on its usefulness. Results from this study indicate that both observers and observees value the peer observation process, are neutral about the adequacy of observer training, use a variety of…

Since written reports are completed on most calls to which emergency medical technicians (EMTs) respond, report writing is an important part of their professional lives. Discourse analysis focused on how EMTs establish professional authority using specific rhetorical strategies when completing "run reports." One way of understanding the…

Acknowledging that the fear of public speaking is widespread, this book guides the reader/communicator through 10 steps of writing and presenting a speech. The book is based on the idea that solid preparation and following a few basic rules makes public speaking easier and the finished product more dynamic. The book is divided into the following…

Forensic program alumni returning for reunions or speech tournaments sometimes find difficulty in keeping pace with changing forensics practices and procedures. Elements influencing the evolutionary process in forensics include: a growing number of debate philosophy formats, bringing diversity in competitive options; expansion of standard…

This guide aims to help parents choose stimulating, educational, and fun videos for their children from the more than 7,000 currently available. The guide includes: 10 tips for evaluating and choosing videos; interviews with and advice from experts; annotated descriptions of more than 400 recommended videos; essential information such as suggested…

The Stipulations Chart is a simple summary of some 90 tenets of communication theory, arranged in a way that allows students in basic communication courses to access those tenets which are relevant to a communication at hand. The 5-page chart organizes theoretical tenets in 2 columns; according to the communication "situation" and the…

Aimed at writers, speakers, students, and all who wish to communicate with clarity and strength, this book illuminates the principles of effective word use. It features dozens of helpful guidelines and memorable examples--from Tennessee Williams to Oprah Winfrey, from Demosthenes to Dr. Seuss--that illustrate the basics of choosing words and using…