Reflections on why engineering students don't like to write - and what we can do about it

Many engineering students approach a technical communication course with reluctance. They may have had unpleasant experiences with earlier English courses both in high school and college, and by nature they are drawn more towards things than towards words. Thus it is important to work on an attitude change during the early weeks of a communication course for engineers. This is not really as hard as it might seem, since such students are highly intelligent in the first place and are open to changing their minds if the facts convince them. My presentation will show various ways in which the classroom teacher can win engineering students over to recognizing the importance of communication skills in an engineering career. With the right approach, engineers can be persuaded to become as effective and competent writers and speakers as can be found in any profession.