On pages 30-33 of Conversation and Community, Anne Gentle provides a summary overview of social media tools. From audio and video to community and profile content, Gentle categorizes and defines what's available to technical communicators for relaying important information to users online. In most all social media, there is a strong collaborative element, and the same goes for much of technical communication. In both areas, there is an opportunity to not only work closer with like-minded individuals but also to learn how to use something. In working together toward the production of a technical document through the use of social media, we should garner firsthand experience and knowledge of what Gentle observes.
As we are already familiar with 'shared content' in the form of Posterous and 'microblogging' in the form of Twitter, this assignment asks that pre-established student groups pick a third social media tool to learn and use to produce technical documentation. Below are acceptable social media selections:
- audio
- community content
- discussions
- photo content
- profile content
- shared content
- syndicated content
- video
- virtual
At a minimum of 2400 words (or appropriate media equivalent), the end result should be some kind of technical communication. Instructions, technical specifications and background information are all appropriate, but must be presented through the use of a social media tool. It could also be a combination, e.g., a series on Flickr (photo content) accompanied by a podcast (audio) of the instructions and specifications of replacing a lightbulb. Given the focus of this assignment, further research is necessary. There is also an expectation that outside sources will be given appropriate credit. It should be clear, though, what product or service is of major focus.
The ultimate project deadline is due Week 8, but there are some prior documents required.
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Project proposal - Week 5
Posted to one group member's blog, the 400-word proposal should provide an overall approach to the assignment and justification for the group's choices of social media and technical documentation. For example, how/why did the group decide on using Tumblr to facilitate technical communication about gaining all achievements in Halo 3?
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Project progress report - Week 6 & Week 7
Posted to one group member's blog, the 400-word progress report should provide evidence of project gains as well as any problems encountered. For example, what issues did the group need to resolve in using Second Life to illustrate the correct process for changing oil in a automobile?
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Project reflection - Week 8
Posted to each group member's blog, the 400-word reflection should provide some perspective on the success of the group project. For example, who took the lead in learning PBworks (a wiki) vs. compiling and organizing content to be posted there?