Integrating technical communication into engineering curricula - An implementation model and tools for assessment of success

The Louisiana State University (LSU) Communication across the Curriculum (CxC) Program is a campus-wide initiative that seeks to integrate four key communications components (spoken, written, visual and technological) into existing curricula. The LSU College of Engineering has served as a pilot for implementation of the CxC program at the discipline-specific level. Central to the program is a process that certifies selected courses that emphasize any two of the four communication "flavors" as Communications Intensive (C-I). Students and faculty in C-I courses are supported by the Engineering Communication Studio, a 3, 000 square foot facility that was opened in October 2005. Several tools are being employed to measure the effectiveness of this initiative and the supporting studio. Data generated to date have indicated positive responses by both faculty and students. Preliminary data have also been used to modify selected components of the initiative to enhance the potential for future success in the overall program.