New models for sharing responsibilities in the preparation of technical communicators

In response to advances in computer technology, academic programs in technical communication are challenged to rethink the basic curriculum. To prepare students for work, we now need expensive and specialized computer labs as well as software training not regularly available in university settings. New partnerships are being formed with work place and community mentors, with shared responsibilities for the preparation of technical communicators, and faculty members are sometimes assuming roles traditionally assigned to development officers.