MODULE DETAILS

MODULE 2: Technical and Specification Writing

Nominal duration: 4 weeks (48 hours total time commitment)

This time commitment includes the preparation reading, attendance at each webinar (1 hour plus 15-30 minutes for discussion), and the time necessary to complete the assignments and further study.

MODULE PURPOSE

To equip the participants with the required skills to systematically design and write accurate and comprehensive technical specifications and to collect, organize, analyse and evaluate information and also develop effective communication at all levels.

PRE-REQUISITES
MODULE, UNITS /
CO-REQUISITES

Nil

ASSESSMENT STRATEGY

To evaluate the achievement of the learning outcomes; written assignments, group projects and practical exercises are set.

SUMMARY OF LEARNING OUTCOMES

1.   Examine and discuss the fundamentals of technical writing

2.   Create technical reports in the appropriate format(s)

3.   Create a specification in the prescribed format

4.   Convert technical reports into oral presentations

Learning Outcome 1

Examine and discuss the fundamentals of technical writing

Assessment Criteria

1.1         Examine and discuss the development process for technical documents

1.2         Establish the outline for a technical document

1.3         Create a simple technical document with due consideration for appearance

Learning Outcome 2

Create technical reports in the appropriate format(s)

Assessment Criteria

2          

2.1         Identify the various report types

2.2         Compare the formats for:

(a) Technical memo reports

(b) Technical proposals

(c) Equipment/maintenance manuals

(d) Journal articles

2.3         Compile a formal report

Learning Outcome 3

Create a specification in the prescribed format

Assessment Criteria

3          

3.1         Prepare a formal technical specification

Learning Outcome 4

Convert technical reports into  oral presentations

Assessment Criteria

4          

4.1         Prepare a PowerPoint slideshow to present the essence of a technical article

4.2         Discuss the issues to be kept in mind while preparing for and conducting a live presentation

Delivery Mode

A combination of asynchronous and synchronous e-learning delivery comprising a judicious mix of interactive online web conferencing, simulation (virtual labs) software, remote online labs, online videos, PowerPoints, notes, reading and study materials (in pdf, html and word format) accessed through the Moodle Learning Management System (LMS).