Defining the interface between technical communication academics and professionals

Abstract

The interface between academics and professionals is important to both the academy and industry. Students entering the field need a solid theoretical foundation and an understanding of the application of theory to real world communication problems. Without this knowledge, these new technical communicators may find themselves in subservient roles to other disciplines or as nothing more than glorified tool jockeys. The academics can show professionals in industry how theory can work in an actual application while professionals can help academic programs by contributing to curricula and program objectives based on industry trends. The current interface between academics and professionals does exist, but not without weakness.