Project Development Approach to Technical Writing in the Computer Science Classroom: A Template for Management

Abstract

Through a cross‐disciplinary approach, two researchers solved the problem of poorly written term papers in the computer science curriculum. Using software engineering techniques, students produced focused, well‐organized, well‐formatted papers, some of publishable quality. The three‐step assignment taught time and research management, organization, and accepted formatting style. The researchers developed supplemental materials to help students create and then assess their work. Any Computer Science teacher at any university level can use the material if a Writing Across the Curriculum (WAC) program exists or if the instructor has sufficient rhetorical skills.