The Pedagogy of Usability: An Analysis of Technical Communication Textbooks, Anthologies, and Course Syllabi and Descriptions

ABSTRACT

Usability has been widely implemented in technical communication curricula and workplace practices, but little attention has focused specifically on how usability and its pedagogy are addressed in our literature. This study reviews selected technical communication textbooks, pedagogical and landmark texts, and online course syllabi and descriptions and argues that meager attention is given to usability, thus suggesting the need for more in-depth and productive discussions on usability practices, strategies, and challenges.

KEYWORDS:

• Course syllabi
• pedagogy
• technical communication courses
• textbooks
• usability

Additional information

Notes on contributors

Felicia Chong

Felicia Chong is an assistant professor in writing and rhetoric at Oakland University. She has taught digital media, technical communication, and business writing courses. Her current research focuses on usability instruction in technical communication.