Writing On The Job

The Faigley, Miller article was an interesting one to read, mostly because I am always curious to know how reading and writing influence the economy and the workplaces of the country. Since it was written in 1982 I am not quite as certain how to respond to the conclusions set out in the article -- I am certain things have changed somewhat. Certainly the idea that persons do not dictate anymore and do have their own computers with word processing to write their own letters exists now. It was nice though to see how technology has advanced within my lifetime (born: 1980) and to see that even then their was but a modest emphasis within the culture on writing and communication skills -- reflected perhaps in the colleges and universities that led to the "literacy crisis" of the mid-seventies.

My own experiences with communication skills bumping against the disinterested technology students has lead me to believe in the fundamental necessity of reading and writing and critical analysis skills. I am not certain how to respond to the article because of its age -- I want to be able to read something late enough that I can apply it to the realities of the present. if for only my own sake, as I ponder why I even decided to study Professional Writing in the first place. But what I can readily take from this article is that there still is a difference between on the job writing and off the job writing.

The ways in which we write, as are the motivations and the means in which we do it. Many people write just the same as anyone in the past might have, with journals and lists and as entertainment. But there are more ways to write with new computer technologies (E-Mail, IM) and it seems like we are in an even greater "literacy crisis" now than any time before within the time of the industrial revolution. I am inclined to believe that communication, as viewed as a tool, rightly evolves and changes as technology does. So in that sense, as long as we effectively communicate then all is good, yet I can't get past the idea of proper "effectiveness" and "proper writing." As in there is a "correct" way of writing, spelling, audience, etc. that needs to be taught and emphasized more in school and in the work force.

I think that maybe the best way to ensure the future of writing is to better educate ourselves and our students of the power, influence and necessity of writing. As well, as acknowledging writing in different contexts -- on the job vs. off the job writing so as to better work in both arenas of life. I know for myself, as good, or effective a writer as I believe I am or capable of being, I am ignorant of how to write "practically" and that might be of concern to me or a potential employer. But I'd like to think that I know enough and am capable enough to learn. A background that allows for that to happen is what we should hope for, at least for younger students, especially high school graduates.