If you are taking classes in the technology building on the second floor you certainly have heard of Dr. Joseph A. Rice. Dr. Rice received his B.A. from the University of Texas at Austin and his Ph.D. from Florida State University. Dr. Rice has published several books on technical writing. He is a consultant to industry in technical communications.
When I signed up for the technical writing class I was told by fellow students, "Are you crazy?" and "Just CLEP out, pay your 40 bucks and be done with it." I said, "I have nothing better to do, so why not take the class? It can't be that bad."
After a few classes, I am lost. What are all these code words of which Dr. Rice speaks? DBL's CYA, layout, organization, level and tone (I thought this was English, not music). I get my first paper back and look for the grade. What is this comment on the paper, "You just don't get it?" Oh well, another rewrite.
Halfway through the semester, our class (the dumbest class Dr. Rice has ever taught) is working in groups, rewriting reports, using simpler language. We are inserting charts and graphs in our reports to better explain things. We are organizing out papers and thinking differently. We realize the concerns industry has with safety. "Hey, girls - I think we learned something."
I even get the idea to write a paper about Dr. Rice. I tell some of the faculty about my idea. I wonder why some of them turn white, as if they've seen a ghost. I go to the Daily Cougar and submit it to the editor. The editor tells me to rewrite it. Get the level down, use some humor, etc. He suggests I run over to the English Department and get one of the professors to help me use proper language and grammar. Hell no - this works for me.
Dr. Rice, you are an inspiration. We have been given new ideas on how to write with your guidance. Years from now when we reminisce or visit the UH for your lifetime career planning consultation (you told us they would find us a job no matter how long it takes) our thoughts will go back to when we attended your class. Good luck on your retirement. You will be missed.
Marvin Granit is a senior industrial technology major