Writing and Communication Program Enhances First-Year Curriculum

Posted August 26, 2024

Writing is getting a big boost in the introductory composition class taken by about one of every three Georgia Tech students.

ENGL 1101 — the first of the required two-course composition sequence for new Georgia Tech students — will now feature more research, idea synthesis, and revised writing than in previous years after a revamp by Writing and Communication Program in the School of Literature Media and Communication.

The changes will better prepare students for success in college and their careers, said Melissa Ianetta, Class of 1958 Professor in Communication and executive director of writing and communication.

“Georgia Tech students are brilliant and capable, and to lead effectively, they need strong communication skills, Ianetta said. “Our new more writing-focused approach in ENGL 1101 does two key things: it meets students where they are, helping them develop revision and composition strategies, and it ensures that they have the foundation needed to succeed in ENGL 1102 and beyond.”

ENGL 1102 is the second of two introductory composition courses offered by LMC. It is taken by nearly all Georgia Tech students and will continue to offer a broader approach to communication, emphasizing visual and multimedia communication in addition to writing.

Senior lecturer Rachel Dean-Ruzicka piloted the new curriculum last year.

“My students seemed to appreciate the distinct skills they take away from each class, and they’re more engaged with the research projects,” Dean-Ruzicka said.

Some of those projects included work on topics including women in Formula One racing, Japanese rock music culture, cultural appropriation in Dune, and mythological influences on the God of War videogame series, she said.

Andy Frazee, principal academic professional and director of writing and communication in LMC, said the revamped curriculum hones in on the persistently vital role of writing, in academia, business, and personal life.

“Writing also plays a vital role in developing critical thinking and clarity of thought, and the changes we’ve made emphasize writing as the basis for communication, which ultimately helps students in both their academic and professional lives,” he said.

In addition to the new curriculum for students, the Writing and Communication Program is also requiring instructors who teach ENGL 1101 an ENGL 1102 to take an additional postdoctoral seminar on teaching writing. Ianetta will lead the seminar.