A Research Primer for Technical Communication

""In many introductory methods classes, instructors cobble together numerous sources to design a robust class. This volume has it all in one place—an explanation of research questions, a strategy to research the literature and annotate it, clear explanations of the major research methods of the field of technical communication, instructions on writing up the research report—plus examples of award-winning, full-length, peer-reviewed studies pulled from our own major journals, which are much more relatable to new researchers than trying to see how psychology or education studies apply them. Throughout, its tone is reassuring, its explanations crystal. I strongly recommend anyone teaching or becoming a new researcher use this volume as their introduction."" – Angela Eaton, PhD, Associate Professor of Technical Communication and Rhetoric, Texas Tech University ""This revised edition offers thorough, practical, and applied information for anyone interested in technical communication research. The rich content and supplementary materials give readers diverse techniques for improving their research practices. This is a must-read primer that is as effective for the classroom as it is the workplace."" – Ryan Boettger, PhD, Associate Professor of Technical Communication, University of North Texas ""As the field of technical communication has grown in the last decades, well-designed research has become especially crucial to the advancement of knowledge. Written in an accessible style, the second edition of A Research Primer for Technical Communication: Methods, Exemplars, and Analysis will prove useful to advanced undergraduates and graduate students studying technical communication research approaches."" – Marjorie Rush Hovde, PhD, Associate Professor of Technical Communication, Indiana University-Purdue University Indianapolis ""A Research Primer for Technical Communication: Methods, Exemplars, and Analysis (2nd ed.) delivers what its title promises […] [T]his edition retains the most important characteristic of the first one: clear, straightforward explanations that should be accessible and engaging to all readers. A must-have for any student or professional technical communicator."" – Saul Carliner, PhD, Professor of Educational Technology, Concordia University (Montréal)