Graduation Year

2021

Document Type

Dissertation

Degree

Ph.D.

Degree Name

Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.)

Degree Granting Department

English

Major Professor

Lisa Melonçon, Ph.D.

Committee Member

Norbert Elliot, Ph.D.

Committee Member

Kristen Gay, Ph.D.

Committee Member

Glen McClish, Ph.D.

Keywords

Curriculum, Ethics, Programmatic Research, Sustainability

Abstract

This study assesses cross-listed courses (courses with a mix of undergraduate and graduate students) to uncover current pedagogical and programmatic trends at a field-wide level. The applied mixed-methods study provides important foundational insights into an under researched area in Technical and Professional Communication (TPC). Research questions include: What courses are cross-listed? How does offering these courses affect writing programs and writing program administration? Through the use of three types of data: (1) course data from institutional documents, (2) interview data from program administrators and/or faculty, and (3) pedagogical materials (syllabi and assignment sheets) from the courses supplied by administrators or faculty, this study uncovers practical results that provide the field an understanding of the current pedagogical approaches to teaching cross-listed courses. First, collecting data online determines the type and number of cross-listed courses offered across the field. Second, interviewing program administrators and faculty reveals motivation and insight behind how and why programs offer cross-listed courses. Third, collecting syllabi and assignment sheets uncovers variations between course goals and assignments for the two student populations. The implications call for a more sustainable and ethical approach to programmatic and pedagogical issues including transparency of student learning. Additionally, this study uncovers a need for more clarity between degree levels and programmatic training in doctoral programs.

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