Broadening the Technical Communication We Teach

A key feature of the field of materials science and engineering is its breadth, which is exemplified in the broad careers pursued by our students in both industry and academia. To succeed in these careers, students will need to be technically prepared and possess robust interpersonal and communication skillsets. Engaging stakeholders at all levels, including the general public, is expected of technical professionals now more than ever. Accordingly, as instructors we need to teach our students forms of technical communication beyond traditional joumal articles and conference talks. Here, Chambers shares some unique communication assignments, such as press releases, online symposia, and infographics, from his laboratory courses.