Online Portfolio Assessment
for
Technical Writing Programs

Procedure / Manual

• Task: write a technical procedure, or steps, for a specific function, such as how to use a specific function in Excel, PhotoShop, or AutoCAD, how to use a machine, how to modify an automobile, etc.
• Result: MS Word document, at least five pages long with headings, numbered steps, graphics and a table of contents.
• Audience: a moderately skilled user.

Proposal

• Task: write a proposal including the following sections (if necessary): cover letter, executive summary, table of contents, background, objectives, plan, personnel, budget, time line, conclusion, supporting materials.
• Result: MS Word document, at least five pages long, with formal and consistent formatting (no errors or typos).  Graphics and template layout are encouraged.
• Audience: decision-makers within the organization.

Technical Marketing Brochure

• Task: use graphics and text programs to create an attractive marketing brochure for the topic in your proposal.
• Result: a two-sided brochure, in color, incorporating both graphics and text in a carefully crafted layout.
• Audience: potential purchasers.

Oral Presentation

• Task: prepare an individual presentation that will be judged by other class members for clarity, interest, etc. on a presentation report.
• Result: you will receive written assessments from each classmate.
• Audience: class members.

Online Portfolio Website

• Task: create a website with links to the manual, proposal and brochure.  The documents can be in Word, PDF or HTML.
• Result: you will show your webpage to the class and submit it for the final assessment by handing in a page with your name and URL.
• Audience: technical communication professors and classmates.