Questions

My questions so far...

• Since the advent of the computer in the classroom, the impact of technology on student learning has been widely discussed in the field of computers and writing. In her text, (Selfe, 1999) notes the importance of educators “paying attention” in order to integrate computer technology in the classroom in socially viable and critically engaged ways. In your response, consider the issues of access and power relations evident in using technology in the writing classroom. Then, take this issues under consideration, as well as the work of prominent scholars in the field (Gee, Hawisher, Yancey) to create a teaching philosophy specific to using computers in the classroom.

• The concept of culture and cultural differences is popularly used in modern scholarship in a variety of disciplines, including rhetoric and professional communication. To understand the undeniable influence of critical/cultural studies in our and other fields, it is useful to first clarify the troubled and troubling term “culture.” Citing theorists and critics in the field, offer your own definition of culture. How do you consider the stakeholders in setting this definition? In crafting this definition also consider competing voices in this debate. What resistance might one find to labeling certain people or traditions as one culture or another? Finally, in your response consider the way this definition of culture will influence your future scholarly/teaching, etc. work.

• New technologies for writing and communication have radically changed the ways in which professional communicators interact and the ways in which work is composed. A number of scholars (e.g. The New London Group, iText Working Group, Cargile Cook, Wysocki, Yancey) argue that being literate in today’s society requires and ability to read and compose in a multitude of forms and media. This is particularly true of those responsible for developing texts on complex subject matter that are aimed at large and diverse audiences. Drawing on the relevant literatures, your coursework, and your own experience, address the various ways multimodal communication affect traditional notions of texts, literacy and communication and what are the most significant implications for technical and professional communication?

And my last question, my specific questions - well, I'm having some issues here. I think I know what I want to say, but can't figure out a way to say it. I think maybe I am putting too much pressure on myself, but it also needs to get done. So, what I have so far isn't even a question. Bah...

• Memory and commemoration have been important issues in rhetoric as many scholars have used commemoration speeches and memorials as artifacts of rhetorical criticism. Many scholars, through, ancient, contemporary and post-modern eras, have addressed the rhetoric of memorial.