Implementing an XML authoring project in a new media course

Abstract

XML authoring skills using specific tools are valuable for technical communications students, but are not commonly taught in technical communications curricula. There are also few published case studies that illustrate possible ways of adapting this type of workplace practice to technical communication courses. This article defines some basic concepts associated with this type of authoring and narrates the story of how the author implemented an XML authoring module in the context of a new media course. Details are provided on how the course approached the problems of how to teach practical XML authoring skills and at the same time contextualize them in terms of new media literacy and rhetoric, aiming for a balance between workplace practice and academic theory. The authoring tools and resources used for the project are described, including a description of a virtual technical communication lab.