Mastering the art of technical writing in it: Making complex things easy to understand in Atate campus

Abstract

This research, conducted at the Atate Campus of Nueva Ecija University of Science and Technology, delves into the realm of technical writing within the Information Technology (IT) sector, focusing on the pedagogical strategies that facilitate the comprehension of complex technical topics by IT students. It seeks to uncover the challenges IT students face when engaging with technical documentation and the effective methods to surmount these obstacles. Through a qualitative and quantitative analysis involving a survey distributed to 100 IT students across various academic years, the study identifies significant challenges such as conceptual complexity, jargon prevalence, and the need for audience-tailored documentation. The research highlights best practices like the use of plain language, visuals, real-world examples, and the critical role of user testing in enhancing document clarity and understandability. Furthermore, it examines preferences in writing styles and document structures, offering insights into effective technical communication tailored to diverse audience needs. This study proposes a set of recommendations aimed at improving technical writing curriculum and pedagogy, encouraging future research, and fostering a deeper understanding of technical subjects among IT students through enhanced technical writing skills.