We may earn an affiliate commission when you visit our partners.
Amber Vanderburg
This course will teach you how to communicate technical information, ideas, and approaches to a non-technical audience effectively
Read more
This course will teach you how to communicate technical information, ideas, and approaches to a non-technical audience effectively
Read more
This course will teach you how to communicate technical information, ideas, and approaches to a non-technical audience effectively
In this Speaker Series, you will learn how to effectively communicate technical information, ideas, and approaches to a non-technical audience. First, you will explore the tools to assess the baseline knowledge, relevance, and best approach for your intended audience. Next, you will discover how to craft a compelling message with effective formatting, relatability, and comprehensiveness. After that, you’ll learn how to deliver your message, both in-person and digitally, in a way that increases understanding, buy-in, and action. When you finish this course, you’ll have the skills and knowledge of technical communication needed to be an effective change agent in your organization.
Register for this course and see more details by visiting:
OpenCourser.com/course/tsoti7/technical
What's inside
Syllabus
Technical Communication for Non-Technical Audiences
Good to know
Good to know
Know what's good ,
what to watch for , and
possible dealbreakers
Focuses on explaining technical information, concepts, and methodologies in a way that non-technical audiences can understand
Covers essential tools to gauge audience knowledge, relevance, and appropriate strategies
Provides techniques for crafting compelling and relatable messages with proper formatting and comprehensiveness
Guides learners through effective delivery methods, both in-person and digitally, to enhance understanding and engagement
Empowers individuals with skills to effectively communicate technical information and drive positive change in their organizations
Save this course
Save Technical Communication for Non-Technical Audiences to your list so you can find it easily later:
Save
Save
Activities
Be better prepared
before
your course. Deepen your understanding
during
and
after
it. Supplement your coursework and achieve mastery of the topics covered
in Technical Communication for Non-Technical Audiences with these
activities:
Read a book on technical writing
Show steps
Gain comprehensive knowledge and insights from a comprehensive resource on technical writing, solidifying your foundation for effective communication.
View
Ecce Homo: On the Divine Unity of Christ...
on Amazon
Show steps
-
Acquire a copy of the recommended book or identify an alternative reputable text.
-
Read through the chapters, focusing on key concepts and practical advice.
-
Take notes, highlight important passages, and engage in critical thinking.
-
Reflect on how the principles apply to your own communication practices.
Watch videos or tutorials on technical communication techniques
Show steps
Supplement your understanding by seeking out expert guidance through videos and tutorials, enhancing your knowledge of best practices and strategies.
Show steps
-
Identify and select reputable sources for technical communication tutorials.
-
Watch or listen to the tutorials actively, taking notes and making annotations.
-
Apply the techniques and strategies covered in the tutorials to your own communication efforts.
Review Past Coursework
Show steps
Revisit materials from previous courses in technical communication to strengthen background knowledge and set up for success in this course.
Browse courses on
Technical Communication
Show steps
-
Look over old syllabi and notes from previous technical communication courses.
-
Review textbooks and resources used in past courses.
-
Take practice quizzes or exams to test your retention.
Ten other activities
Expand to see all activities and additional details
Show all 13 activities
Identify and describe scenarios that require technical communication
Show steps
Identify and analyze diverse situations that call for effective technical communication to build a strong foundation for the following course modules.
Browse courses on
Technical Communication
Show steps
-
Review your past experiences and identify instances where technical communication was required or could have been applied.
-
Analyze the situations, considering the audience, objectives, and constraints.
-
Describe and document the scenarios, highlighting the key communication challenges and opportunities.
Compile a list of resources for technical communication
Show steps
Build a valuable collection of resources, such as articles, websites, and tools, to enhance your understanding and access to best practices and strategies in technical communication.
Browse courses on
Resources
Show steps
-
Identify and gather resources related to technical communication.
-
Categorize and organize the resources based on topics or themes.
-
Create a document or online platform to share the compilation.
Join a Study Group
Show steps
Collaborate with fellow students to discuss course concepts, share insights, and practice communicating technical information effectively.
Browse courses on
Collaboration
Show steps
-
Find a study group or create your own with classmates.
-
Meet regularly to discuss course materials, work on assignments together, and give each other feedback.
-
Participate actively in group discussions and contribute your own ideas and perspectives.
Attend meet-ups or conferences focused on technical communication
Show steps
Engage with professionals in the field, learn about industry trends and best practices, and expand your network for potential collaborations or job opportunities.
Browse courses on
Networking
Show steps
-
Research and identify upcoming meet-ups or conferences related to technical communication.
-
Register and attend the event.
-
Actively participate in discussions, ask questions, and connect with other attendees.
-
Follow up with new connections after the event.
Find Online Tutorials
Show steps
Supplement your learning with online tutorials that provide additional explanations and examples of technical communication concepts.
Browse courses on
Technical Communication
Show steps
-
Search for online tutorials on specific topics covered in the course.
-
Follow along with the tutorials, taking notes and practicing the concepts.
-
Reach out to the instructors of the tutorials if you have any questions.
Create a blog post or article on a technical topic
Show steps
Produce a written piece that demonstrates your understanding of technical communication principles and your ability to convey complex information clearly to a non-technical audience.
Browse courses on
Technical Writing
Show steps
-
Choose a specific technical topic that you are familiar with.
-
Research and gather information from reliable sources.
-
Organize your content logically and write in a clear and concise style.
-
Proofread your work carefully before publishing it.
Form a study group or join a peer support community
Show steps
Collaborate with fellow learners, discuss course materials, share insights, and provide support, fostering a deeper understanding of technical communication concepts and enhancing your learning experience.
Browse courses on
Peer Support
Show steps
-
Identify or form a study group with peers in the course.
-
Establish regular meeting times and set goals.
-
Discuss course materials, ask questions, and share perspectives.
-
Provide support and encouragement to group members.
Develop a Communication Plan
Show steps
Design a comprehensive communication plan that outlines how you will effectively communicate technical information to a specific audience.
Browse courses on
Technical Communication
Show steps
-
Identify the target audience and their needs.
-
Define the communication objectives.
-
Develop key messages and supporting materials.
-
Choose the appropriate communication channels.
-
Establish a timeline and budget for the communication plan.
Develop a technical document for a specific audience
Show steps
Apply your technical communication skills by creating a comprehensive document tailored to a specific audience, demonstrating your ability to synthesize and present complex information effectively.
Browse courses on
Technical Documentation
Show steps
-
Identify a specific audience and their needs.
-
Determine the purpose and scope of the technical document.
-
Research and gather relevant information from various sources.
-
Organize and structure the document logically.
-
Write, edit, and revise the document, ensuring clarity and accuracy.
Create a Technical Report
Show steps
Apply your understanding of technical communication by creating a report that effectively conveys technical information to a non-technical audience.
Browse courses on
Technical Writing
Show steps
-
Identify a technical topic to write about.
-
Research and gather information on the topic.
-
Organize and structure the information in a logical way.
-
Write the report using clear and concise language.
-
Proofread and edit the report carefully.
Read a book on technical writing
Show steps
Gain comprehensive knowledge and insights from a comprehensive resource on technical writing, solidifying your foundation for effective communication.
View
Ecce Homo: On the Divine Unity of Christ...
on Amazon
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Acquire a copy of the recommended book or identify an alternative reputable text.
- Read through the chapters, focusing on key concepts and practical advice.
- Take notes, highlight important passages, and engage in critical thinking.
- Reflect on how the principles apply to your own communication practices.
Watch videos or tutorials on technical communication techniques
Show steps
Supplement your understanding by seeking out expert guidance through videos and tutorials, enhancing your knowledge of best practices and strategies.
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Identify and select reputable sources for technical communication tutorials.
- Watch or listen to the tutorials actively, taking notes and making annotations.
- Apply the techniques and strategies covered in the tutorials to your own communication efforts.
Review Past Coursework
Show steps
Revisit materials from previous courses in technical communication to strengthen background knowledge and set up for success in this course.
Browse courses on
Technical Communication
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Look over old syllabi and notes from previous technical communication courses.
- Review textbooks and resources used in past courses.
- Take practice quizzes or exams to test your retention.
Ten other activities
Expand to see all activities and additional details
Show all 13 activities
Identify and describe scenarios that require technical communication
Show steps
Identify and analyze diverse situations that call for effective technical communication to build a strong foundation for the following course modules.
Browse courses on
Technical Communication
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Review your past experiences and identify instances where technical communication was required or could have been applied.
- Analyze the situations, considering the audience, objectives, and constraints.
- Describe and document the scenarios, highlighting the key communication challenges and opportunities.
Compile a list of resources for technical communication
Show steps
Build a valuable collection of resources, such as articles, websites, and tools, to enhance your understanding and access to best practices and strategies in technical communication.
Browse courses on
Resources
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Identify and gather resources related to technical communication.
- Categorize and organize the resources based on topics or themes.
- Create a document or online platform to share the compilation.
Join a Study Group
Show steps
Collaborate with fellow students to discuss course concepts, share insights, and practice communicating technical information effectively.
Browse courses on
Collaboration
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Find a study group or create your own with classmates.
- Meet regularly to discuss course materials, work on assignments together, and give each other feedback.
- Participate actively in group discussions and contribute your own ideas and perspectives.
Attend meet-ups or conferences focused on technical communication
Show steps
Engage with professionals in the field, learn about industry trends and best practices, and expand your network for potential collaborations or job opportunities.
Browse courses on
Networking
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Research and identify upcoming meet-ups or conferences related to technical communication.
- Register and attend the event.
- Actively participate in discussions, ask questions, and connect with other attendees.
- Follow up with new connections after the event.
Find Online Tutorials
Show steps
Supplement your learning with online tutorials that provide additional explanations and examples of technical communication concepts.
Browse courses on
Technical Communication
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Search for online tutorials on specific topics covered in the course.
- Follow along with the tutorials, taking notes and practicing the concepts.
- Reach out to the instructors of the tutorials if you have any questions.
Create a blog post or article on a technical topic
Show steps
Produce a written piece that demonstrates your understanding of technical communication principles and your ability to convey complex information clearly to a non-technical audience.
Browse courses on
Technical Writing
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Choose a specific technical topic that you are familiar with.
- Research and gather information from reliable sources.
- Organize your content logically and write in a clear and concise style.
- Proofread your work carefully before publishing it.
Form a study group or join a peer support community
Show steps
Collaborate with fellow learners, discuss course materials, share insights, and provide support, fostering a deeper understanding of technical communication concepts and enhancing your learning experience.
Browse courses on
Peer Support
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Identify or form a study group with peers in the course.
- Establish regular meeting times and set goals.
- Discuss course materials, ask questions, and share perspectives.
- Provide support and encouragement to group members.
Develop a Communication Plan
Show steps
Design a comprehensive communication plan that outlines how you will effectively communicate technical information to a specific audience.
Browse courses on
Technical Communication
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Identify the target audience and their needs.
- Define the communication objectives.
- Develop key messages and supporting materials.
- Choose the appropriate communication channels.
- Establish a timeline and budget for the communication plan.
Develop a technical document for a specific audience
Show steps
Apply your technical communication skills by creating a comprehensive document tailored to a specific audience, demonstrating your ability to synthesize and present complex information effectively.
Browse courses on
Technical Documentation
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Identify a specific audience and their needs.
- Determine the purpose and scope of the technical document.
- Research and gather relevant information from various sources.
- Organize and structure the document logically.
- Write, edit, and revise the document, ensuring clarity and accuracy.
Create a Technical Report
Show steps
Apply your understanding of technical communication by creating a report that effectively conveys technical information to a non-technical audience.
Browse courses on
Technical Writing
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Identify a technical topic to write about.
- Research and gather information on the topic.
- Organize and structure the information in a logical way.
- Write the report using clear and concise language.
- Proofread and edit the report carefully.
Career center
Learners who complete Technical Communication for Non-Technical Audiences will develop knowledge and skills
that may be useful to these careers:
Technical Writer
Technical Writer
Technical Writers create instruction manuals, how-to guides, and other explanatory materials. Tech writers have a background in a particular subject matter and are able to simplify it for lay audiences. Technical Communication for Non-Technical Audiences helps students develop the skills they need to become exceptional Technical Writers.
User Experience Designer
User Experience Designer
User Experience Designers are part of the development process that makes sure a product or service is usable, enjoyable, and accessible. A UXD must be able to take complex technical information and translate it into effective designs for products or services that anyone can use. Technical Communication for Non-Technical Audiences gives learners the technical writing skills and background needed to succeed as a UXD.
Instructional Designer
Instructional Designer
Instructional Designers create educational content for students of all ages. They most often work in technology companies, government, and schools. One who wishes to succeed as an Instructional Designer must be able to effectively communicate with non-technical audiences. Technical Communication for Non-Technical Audiences gives students the opportunity to learn how to effectively communicate to those who may not have the background or knowledge to understand specialized technical terms or concepts.
Product Manager
Product Manager
Product Managers are responsible for the development and launch of new products and services. They need to be able to communicate complex technical information to a variety of stakeholders, including customers, engineers, and executives. Technical Communication for Non-Technical Audiences will help learners develop the skills they need to succeed in this critical role.
Information Architect
Information Architect
Information Architects create and organize websites and other information systems. They need to be able to communicate with both technical and non-technical stakeholders. Technical Communication for Non-Technical Audiences will help learners develop the skills to do this effectively.
Sales Engineer
Sales Engineer
Sales Engineers apply technical expertise to the sales process. This often involves educating potential customers about complex products and services. Technical Communication for Non-Technical Audiences will help equip learners with the expertise needed to succeed in this field.
Consultant
Consultant
Consultants provide expert advice to clients on a variety of topics. They need to be able to communicate complex technical information to clients who may not have the background or knowledge to understand specialized terms or concepts. Technical Communication for Non-Technical Audiences can help learners develop the skills needed to do this effectively.
Journalist
Journalist
Journalists find, analyze, and report on news and current events. They work for media companies like newspapers, magazines, and websites. It is important for Journalists to be able to explain complex topics to the general public. With Technical Communication for Non-Technical Audiences, learners will gain the skills necessary to convey information to a wider audience.
Project Manager
Project Manager
Project Managers plan and execute projects. They need to be able to communicate complex technical information to a variety of stakeholders, including clients, team members, and executives. Technical Communication for Non-Technical Audiences may be helpful for project managers who want to develop the communication skills necessary for success in this role.
Technical Support Specialist
Technical Support Specialist
Technical Support Specialists provide technical assistance to customers. They need to be able to understand and explain complex technical information to customers who may not have the background or knowledge to understand specialized terms or concepts. Technical Communication for Non-Technical Audiences may be helpful for learners who wish to develop the skills to succeed in this role.
Patent Attorney
Patent Attorney
Patent Attorneys help inventors protect their intellectual property. They need to be able to understand and explain complex technical information to both clients and the courts. Technical Communication for Non-Technical Audiences may be helpful for learners who wish to develop the communication skills necessary for success in this role.
Business Analyst
Business Analyst
Business Analysts study and analyze an organization's needs and processes to help improve them. They need to be able to communicate complex technical information to stakeholders who may not have the background or knowledge to understand specialized terms or concepts. Technical Communication for Non-Technical Audiences may be helpful for business analysts who want to develop the skills to better explain technical concepts to stakeholders.
Trainer
Trainer
Trainers develop and deliver training programs to employees. They need to be able to communicate complex technical information to trainees in a way that is easy to understand. Technical Communication for Non-Technical Audiences may be helpful for trainers who want to develop the skills to better explain technical concepts to trainees.
Teacher
Teacher
Teachers educate students of all ages. They need to be able to communicate complex information to students in a way that is easy to understand. Technical Communication for Non-Technical Audiences may be helpful for teachers who want to develop the skills to better explain technical concepts to students.
Software Engineer
Software Engineer
Software Engineers design, develop, and maintain software systems. They need to be able to understand and explain complex technical information to both technical and non-technical stakeholders. Technical Communication for Non-Technical Audiences may be helpful for software engineers who want to develop the communication skills necessary for success in this role.
For more career information including salaries, visit:
OpenCourser.com/course/tsoti7/technical
Reading list
We've selected 20 books
that we think will supplement your
learning. Use these to
develop background knowledge, enrich your coursework, and gain a
deeper understanding of the topics covered in
Technical Communication for Non-Technical Audiences.
Save
Explores the principles of effective communication and how to make ideas stick in the minds of audiences. Provides insights into how to craft messages that are memorable, meaningful, and persuasive.
Save
Must-read for anyone who needs to give presentations. It covers topics such as creating effective slides, using visuals effectively, and delivering presentations with confidence.
Valuable resource for anyone who needs to design technical documents, even if they don't have a background in design. It covers topics such as typography, layout, and color theory.
Practical guide to building successful startups. It covers topics such as customer development, product development, and marketing.
Thought-provoking exploration of the future of technology and innovation. It covers topics such as artificial intelligence, virtual reality, and the future of work.
Save
Practical guide to getting customers for your startup. It covers topics such as marketing, sales, and customer service.
Practical guide to creating products and services that customers want. It covers topics such as customer segmentation, value proposition design, and business model design.
Specifically tailored for engineers, this book provides guidance on writing technical reports, proposals, and presentations. Covers the specific challenges of communicating technical information to non-technical audiences.
Cautionary tale about the challenges of starting and running a startup. It covers topics such as founder conflict, funding, and exit strategies.
Save
Practical guide to navigating the challenges of the middle stage of any startup or business venture. It covers topics such as team management, product development, and marketing.
Classic in the field of innovation management. It explains why successful companies often fail to innovate, and how to avoid this trap.
Brutally honest account of the challenges of building a successful business. It covers topics such as hiring, firing, and dealing with failure.
Focuses on the art of explaining complex ideas in a clear and engaging way. Provides techniques for breaking down complex concepts, using analogies and metaphors, and creating visuals that aid understanding.
Provides a practical approach to technical writing, covering topics such as audience analysis, document structure, and style. Includes examples and exercises to help readers apply the concepts to their own writing.
Aimed at engineering students and professionals, this book provides guidance on writing clear and effective technical documents. Covers topics such as report writing, proposal writing, and presentations.
Aimed at researchers and scientists, this book provides guidance on writing and publishing scientific papers. Covers topics such as manuscript preparation, peer review, and journal selection.
Focuses on the craft of scientific writing, providing guidance on writing clear and concise scientific prose. Covers topics such as sentence structure, paragraph organization, and the use of jargon.
Provides guidance on writing scientific papers and proposals that are likely to be accepted and funded. Covers topics such as structure, style, and the use of evidence.
Specifically tailored for biologists, this book provides guidance on writing scientific papers, grants, and other documents. Covers topics such as structure, style, and the use of scientific language.
Specifically tailored for computer scientists, this book provides guidance on writing technical documents, including research papers, technical reports, and software documentation. Covers topics such as structure, style, and the use of technical language.
For more information about how these books relate to this course, visit:
OpenCourser.com/course/tsoti7/technical
Share
Similar courses
Here are nine courses similar to
Technical Communication for Non-Technical Audiences.
Technical Troubleshooting: Diagnostics, Networks, Customers
OpenCourser.com/course/9v2dv8/technical
Technical Troubleshooting: Diagnostics, Networks,...
Visual Media for Effective Healthcare Communication
OpenCourser.com/course/nnp9wb/visual
Visual Media for Effective Healthcare Communication
The Technical Business Analyst
OpenCourser.com/course/vdbe87/the
The Technical Business Analyst
GL210: Technical Writi
OpenCourser.com/course/wbu7dq/sayloracademy
GL210: Technical Writi
Communicating Model Results and Data Insights for Data Scientists
OpenCourser.com/course/8qqtmv/communicating
Communicating Model Results and Data Insights for Data...
Technical Communication Using AI for Technical Professionals
OpenCourser.com/course/020z47/technical
Technical Communication Using AI for Technical...
Effective Preaching and Teaching
OpenCourser.com/course/ubk5yo/effective
Effective Preaching and Teaching
Business Communication
OpenCourser.com/course/xgty16/business
Business Communication
Business Writing & Technical Writing Immersion
OpenCourser.com/course/ci8vay/business
Business Writing & Technical Writing Immersion
Time
54 hours
Level
Introductory
Via
Pluralsight
Instructor
Amber Vanderburg
Language
English
Good to know
Focuses on explaining technical information, concepts, and methodologies in a way that non-technical audiences can understand
Covers essential tools to gauge audience knowledge, relevance, and appropriate strategies
Provides techniques for crafting compelling and relatable messages with proper formatting and comprehensiveness
Guides learners through effective delivery methods, both in-person and digitally, to enhance understanding and engagement
Empowers individuals with skills to effectively communicate technical information and drive positive change in their organizations
Our mission
OpenCourser helps millions of learners each year. People visit us to learn workspace skills, ace their exams, and nurture their curiosity.
Our extensive catalog contains over 50,000 courses and twice as many books. Browse by search, by topic, or even by career interests. We'll match you to the right resources quickly.
Find this site helpful? Tell a friend about us.
Affiliate disclosure
We're supported by our community of learners. When you purchase or subscribe to courses and programs or purchase books, we may earn a commission from our partners.
Your purchases help us maintain our catalog and keep our servers humming without ads.
Thank you for supporting OpenCourser.
© 2016 - 2024 OpenCourser