Using a grounded theory approach, this investigation addresses how an interdisciplinary research (IDR) team negotiates meaning and struggles to establish and sustain a sense of collective communication competence (CCC). Certain communication processes were foundational to building CCC, such as spending time together, practicing trust, discussing…

The purpose of this study was to conduct a content analysis of educational psychology textbook vocabulary published during or after 2000. Seven textbooks have been published and are currently in print. Textbook keywords, key concepts, vocabulary words and/or glossaries were analyzed to create a descriptive account of all words defined in the…

Each profession has its own insider language. Thick with acronyms and polysyllabics, such argot helps colleagues communicate complex ideas precisely and with as few words as possible. But even by the standards of technical talk, the jargon of education often seems unnecessarily, perhaps willfully, opaque--even to other educators. To the…

This library automation style guide lists specific terms and names often used in the library automation industry. The terms and/or acronyms are listed alphabetically and each is followed by a brief definition. The guide refers to the "Chicago Manual of Style" for general rules, and a notes section is included for the convenience of individual…

Asserts that teaching conceived of as translation of complex material into plain language is actually refusal to teach. Using Lacan's psychoanalytic theory, describes teaching framed by clarity is suspect and exclusionary. States that no text speaks for itself, without context. (Author/SK)

Focuses on technical sub-languages to reveal sociological functions of language that transcend mere transfer of substantive information. Finds one sociological feature, the shibboleth, acting widely throughout technical fields. (PA)

An electronic newsletter, or "eNewsletter" for short, is a cost-effective informational publication typically distributed weekly or monthly using e-mail. If properly implemented, it can become an effective customer service tool, providing an opportunity to share information with children, parents, and families. It can also serve as a powerful…

The terminological situation of computer graphic arts in French is addressed. This report consists of an outline of the current relationship of the visual arts and computer science, the report of a feasibility study for a dictionary to be used as a potential bilingual reference tool, a bibliography of over 200 related resources, and related…

Notes that prescriptions for scientific writing about jargon and the passive voice do not take into account that language varies with rhetorical setting. Argues that prescriptions to avoid them are not well adapted to their functions. (SR)

Discusses kinds of jargon found in technical writing, how much jargon is acceptable, and the best way to handle jargon. (SR)

Quotes a variety of leaders in higher education who decry the use of highly specialized terminology (jargon) in the higher education field. Includes a list of 30 "catch phrases" and examples of their use. Recognizes that jargon may streamline communication within the discipline but urges educators to be wary of using jargon with non-educators,…

We all hate jargon that we do not understand. It leaves us feeling confused, frustrated, and belittled. We simultaneously wonder why we do not know what the terms mean and why the speaker does not explain them or use more understandable language. Communication between those "in the know" and those not in the know has always been an issue and will…

This paper reports the findings of a survey conducted to investigate students' knowledge of geography, such as an accurate understanding of the basic vocabulary and essential concepts associated with the representative geographic locations, described here as "spatial landmarks". The factors that influence their learning, and how their…

This paper explores the use of "legalese" in non-policy debate resolutions. After defining legalese as legal jargon and terminology, the paper discusses how resolutional words and terms function within intercollegiate debate. It next deals with the purpose and practice of legal jargon within legal scholarship and practice, noting that…

Marble games, or pitch, are among the most widely played of traditional boys' games in Trinidad and Tobago and have declined in the last two decades. Nearly 200 marbles terms found in Trinidad and Tobago English Creole are documented. Although most are British in origin, there are East Indian, French Creole, and possible African influences on this…