Course List (Rhetoric and Writing)

The study of rhetorical theory, related issues in writing pedagogy, and the practice of teaching composition at the university level for GTAs in the Department of English. Pre–requisite: Graduate Standing and appointment as a GTA in the Department of English.

Study of the theory, research, and practice of teaching composition at the university level, including the integration of written, oral, and visual literacies and the uses of technology. Careful consideration of the epistemological and cultural implications of writing instruction.

Examination of the theories, research, and practices of visual rhetoric and document design. Emphasis on ways in which images and other visual methods of communication influence audiences.

Examination of theoretical and practical issues pertaining to writing and designing for intercultural and/or international audiences.

Introduction to the field of technical communication.  Key theories, methods, strategies, genres, and modes of written and multimedia technical communication and information design.  Intellectual history of the field and its relation to contributing disciplines.  Economic, political, cultural, and ethical contexts of technical communication. 

Analysis of the historical and philosophical development of the field of rhetoric of science and technology through benchmark publications; examination of scientific texts and technologies as objects of rhetorical criticism.

Study of major figures and concepts in classical rhetoric, with emphasis on applications to written communication.

Study of major figures, key concepts, and evolution of modern Western rhetoric.

Study of the relationship of language and human action, with emphasis on how rhetoric reflects and shapes social practices and how literate activity operates in a complex society; emphasis on written communication.

Study of the uses of digital media in research, information development and sharing, and advocacy regarding public issues.

Theory and practice of evaluating, designing, and conducting empirical research projects in rhetoric and writing. Focus on critiquing studies, developing research questions, selecting methods, and designing projects. Introduction to appropriate statistical concepts and methods as well as qualitative and hybrid methodologies.

Examination of field methods and methodology in rhetoric and writing, including case studies, ethnographies, qualitative interviews, and field/participant observations.

Studies in the history, topics, sites of practice, and major figures of rhetoric, with application to written communication and English Studies. May be repeated twice for a total of 9 hours credit when the topic varies.

Studies in theories applied to written communication. May be repeated twice for credit for a total of 9 hours when the topic varies.