The use of oral communication approaches to enhance the instruction environment for MIS classes

Computer technologists are often considered to be poor communicators. In all too many instances, the communication problems are escalated by the fact that computer professionals must often interact with end-users who have limited knowledge of computer jargon (Hughes C.T., J. Systems Mgmt 37, 15 (1986); Ref. [1]). What seems to be lacking is the ability to narrate technological notions in a concise, businesslike fashion, as some have suggested (Benjamin R.I., Dickinson Jr C. and Rochhart J.F., MIS Q. 177 (September 1985); Ref. [2] and Rockhart J.F. amd Flannery, Commun. ACM 776 (October 1983); Ref. [3]). In order to adequately respond to the challenge of being able to communicate effectively, a binding together of the technology and ability to express oneself must take place. Professors could help business students avoid this potential problem by integrating oral communication skills into a MIS course. Studies consistently document that oral communication skills are important for career success (Behnke R.R., Sawyer C.R. and King P.E., Commun. Educ. 36, 140 (April 1987); Ref. [4]). This paper describes cooperative efforts between instructors and students to enhance the communication skills of information systems majors.