📅 Assignment Description
Write a 5–7 page formal, researched technical report that explores an emerging trend, technology, or issue shaping the future of your chosen field. Your goal is to inform an audience of early-career professionals and/or college students about changes that are likely to affect the tools, expectations, or practices of your field in the next 5–10 years.
Purpose & Audience
- Purpose: To demonstrate your technical writing skills through analysis, synthesis, and forward-looking research.
- Audience: Readers in your field (e.g., early-career professionals and/or college students) who are familiar with current practices but want to understand what’s next.
Note: Over the next few weeks, the information and assignments in this module will guide you through writing this report.
📖 Research Requirements
- Minimum of 5 reputable sources (at least one scholarly, one trade/professional, and one visual or data source. Reputable websites are allowed. You may use Wikipedia for background, but not as a source).
- Use APA citation style consistently (in-text citations and a References page).
- Integrate visuals to clarify or enhance your points.
📝 Quick APA Citation Guide (7th ed.)
🌐 Website:
Author, A. A. (Year, Month Day). Title of webpage. Website Name. https://xxxxxxx
📖 Book:
Author, A. A. (Year). Title of book (Edition if needed). Publisher.
📺 YouTube / 🎧 Podcast:
Author or Channel Name. (Year, Month Day). Title of video or episode [Video or Podcast]. Platform. https://xxxxxxx
🔗 APA Style Resources
📈 Visuals or Data
- Include one or more visuals such as:
- Graphs, charts, tables
- Timelines
- Diagrams or side-by-side comparisons
- Explain each visual in the text and ensure it supports your claims.
- Number visuals, title them, and provide a source.
Body Section Guide
▶ 1. Trend or Issue Overview (1–2 pages)
- Define the trend clearly.
- Explain what it is and why it matters.
- Provide brief context: How is it currently used or viewed?
“3D printing in construction allows for entire building components to be manufactured off-site with customized precision.”
▶ 2. Origin and Development (1–2 pages)
- When and how did this trend emerge?
- What has contributed to its rise?
- Include one or more sources tracing the trend’s background or trajectory.
“According to a 2022 report by the National Construction Association, 3D printing use in housing projects has grown by 40% since 2018.”
▶ 3. Impact on the Field (1–2 pages)
- How will this trend change work in the field?
- Will it affect tools, job roles, communication, or required skills?
- Use examples and evidence to explain the practical effects.
“Construction managers will need to understand CAD modeling and operate specialized printing equipment.”
▶ 4. Challenges, Risks, or Controversies (1–2 pages)
- What are the possible downsides or concerns?
- Are there economic, legal, ethical, or social implications?
- Include differing viewpoints if applicable.
“Some industry leaders worry about job displacement among traditional construction laborers as automation increases.”
▶ 5. Connection to the Future (1–2 pages)
- What might this trend look like 5–10 years from now?
- How do you recommend students or new professionals prepare?
- End with a forward-looking insight.
✅ Final Tips
- Use headings and subheadings to organize your report clearly.
- Maintain a professional tone.
- Focus on clarity, conciseness, and evidence.
Reminder: Your goal is to analyze and explain—not just describe. Your audience wants to know what’s coming and how to respond to it.
“Effective technical writing doesn’t just deliver information—it helps the reader understand what to do with it.”
