Forms of Inquiry in Written Communication

3 credits · Undergraduate

(3 hrs Lecture) This course examines the methods and methodologies of the research community that takes writing as its subject-defining method as a technique of gathering evidence and methodology as the underlying theory and analysis of how research proceeds. We review how the community of researchers formed since the 1960s has relied upon diverse ways to make knowledge about writing and writing processes. Students examine qualitative approaches that are common or that are gaining prominence in this community, with emphasis on ethnography, case study, and teacher research narrative. The influences of feminism, pluralism, and collaborative scholarship are also considered. Students will become familiar with these methods by reading theory and research and by conducting their own research project. Restrictions: Students may not hold credit for this course and RHET-4320. Requisite Courses: Any section of Academic Writing or exemption from the writing requirement and completion of 24 credit hours [prerequisite(s)].