vcc.ca
CSTP 1207: Technical Communication
Effective date
September 2019
Department
Computer Systems Tech Diploma
School
Trades, Technology and Design
Description
In this course students will be introduced to the basic principles of effective technical writing in the computer industry. The necessity of following company standards for documentation will be emphasized. Learners will review grammar and style, and learn technical formats and report design. The production of technical documentation for a variety of user groups will be a course focus. Students will learn how to write effective business correspondence and instructions and how to deliver a formal oral presentation. Student will also learn the basics of resume preparation and cover letter writing.
Credits
2.0
Year of study
1st Year Post-secondary
Prerequisites
CSTP 1101 Communication and Workplace Behaviour
Corequisites
None
Course Learning Outcomes
Upon successful completion of this course, students will be able to:
- Identify documentation types required in the workplace
- Conduct situational analyses
- Plan documentation
- Draft technical documentation
- Perform revisions and editing of documentation
- Design technical documentation and reports
- Demonstrate effective presentation skills
- Prepare a resume and write a professional cover letter for a job posting
Prior Learning Assessment & Recognition (PLAR)
None
Hours
Lecture, Online, Seminar, Tutorial: 20
Clinical, Lab, Rehearsal, Shop, Kitchen, Simulation, Studio: 20
Total Hours: 40
Clinical, Lab, Rehearsal, Shop, Kitchen, Simulation, Studio: 20
Total Hours: 40
Instructional Strategies
Instructional strategies include classroom lectures, demonstrations, group discussions, computer lab and
hands-on practical work.
hands-on practical work.
Grading System
Letter Grade (A-F)
Passing grade
C
Evaluation Plan
|
Type |
Percentage |
Assessment activity |
|
Midterm Exam |
30 |
Midterm |
|
Assignments |
20 |
Sample bibliography, summary |
|
Assignments |
20 |
Memo/workplace document, recommendations report |
|
Assignments |
20 |
Presentations, cover letters, and resumes |
|
Quizzes/Tests |
10 |
Technical style quiz |
Course topics
- Documentation types required in the workplace
- Situational analyses
- Planning documentation
- Technical documentation
- Revisions and editing of documentation
- Technical documentation and reports
- Technical editing techniques
- Presentation skills
- Resume and Cover letter
Notes:
- Course contents and descriptions, offerings and schedules are subject to change without notice.
- Students are required to follow all College policies including ones that govern their educational experience at VCC. Policies are available on the VCC website at:
https://www.vcc.ca/about/governance--policies/policies/. - To find out if there are existing transfer agreements for this course, visit the BC Transfer Guide at https://www.bctransferguide.ca.