WRD 110 is a course in speaking and writing emphasizing critical inquiry and research. Our concept of research goes far beyond an ordinary (and, frankly, boring) idea of looking up information and plugging it into essays. Research is a creative, complex, and exciting process. Students engage in reflective thinking and analysis, conduct primary research in the community and secondary research using print and online resources, and learn how to write and speak effectively about a local issue not only for their classmates but also for audiences beyond the classroom. Student research is presented in a number of media, including text, images, sounds, and speeches. Students work independently, with a partner, or with a small group of classmates to investigate, share findings, and compose presentations of their research, as well as to practice and evaluate interpersonal and team dynamics in action.
