Discusses the cultural elements in developing a technical manual. Shows, through a comparison of two mythical cultures, how the manual will differ when organized for those two cultures. Considers the influences of culture on developing technical documents, specifically manuals. Concludes that the attitudes of a culture are significant factors in…

Looks at a sample of instructional documents using Restricted and Elaborated Code and metadiscourse analysis to determine how easily users can read and understand the material. Suggests that the documents do not send a clear message to authors and editors and can be stylistically hard to understand and consequently, the approved standards…

Reports that, since its beginnings in 1973, the Council for Programs in Technical and Scientific Communication (CPTSC) has grown into a 200-member-strong organization with members from schools, corporations, and 3 foreign countries. Recounts the history of the organization and gives its precepts. (PA)

Considers that, since the textbook is the main teaching tool for instructors, typically teachers select a text based on how well it supports their views of and approach to the subject. Examines pre-1970 texts to see how technical writing has been taught over the years. Examines such features as author's background, contents, assumed reader, and…