Technical Writers' Perceptions on the Effect of CEIT Undergraduate Courses on Technical Documentation

Abstract

This study investigates the professional knowledge, and skill sets of individuals employed in the technical documentation sector who have graduated from the Computer Education and Instructional Technologies (CEIT) program. The research further aims to propose enhancements to the CEIT curriculum through the inclusion of relevant elective courses tailored to this field. The study utilized a mixedmethods research design, incorporating surveys and semi-structured interviews, and involved a total of 40 participants. Data was gathered through a survey administered to 10 technical writers employed across various organizations, alongside semi-structured interviews conducted with 30 additional technical writers. The findings indicate that CEIT graduates employed as technical writers perceive themselves as competent in their field and regard the current curriculum as effective in supporting the production of technical publications. Participants also recommended the inclusion of an elective course within the CEIT undergraduate program to provide instruction on technical documentation tools and the documentation standard S1000D.

Keywords

• Technical Documentation
• Technical Documentation Standards
• Technical Writer
• Technical Writer Competencies
• Computer Education

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