Argues that business communication is a hybrid field representing a melding of interests and characteristics in a new form. Considers the various intellectual traditions that have contributed to the emergence of the discipline. Proposes new ways of conceptualizing the discipline. (HB)

Explores the significance of claims to organizations and businesses, makes a case for integrating and networking communication throughout the organization, describes how the classroom unit on claims can increase student motivation and enthusiasm, and makes a case for improving students' persuasive powers. (Author)

Considers how vignettes or scenarios are particularly effective tools for instruction in cross-cultural business communication and negotiations; they serve the same function as a story that a trainer or professor might use to bring a particular issue to life. Suggests that teachers in intercultural or international business communication should…

Through scrutinizing three simulated negotiation cases of Chinese MBA students in an American business school, the study illustrates how Chinese face ideology functioned to orient and complicate the students' (pseudo-)business communications with Americans. The students' bone-deep sensitivity to maintaining harmony and interrelationships in the…

Student peer review has proven an effective technique for improving student writing in both English and business communication classes, yet the technique is not widely used in business courses other than business communication. In this article, the author discusses using student peer review in business classes to improve students' final written…

A corporation's image is a powerful persuasive tool for reaching external publics such as competitors, regulators, and prospective employees. Corporations should avoid disparities between the actual and the desired image, as well as disparities between the external perception and the internal perception of employees. A course was developed at…

Describes a study in which a 1982 survey was replicated to (1) determine the present status of business communication instruction in postsecondary institutions in the United States and (2) observe instructional changes within the past four years. Indicates that major differences in instruction were found between 1982 and 1987 and between two and…

Proposes general semantics as the ideal means of teaching a process-oriented analysis of ethical standards. Discusses general semantics principles and their applicability in teaching business ethics. (PD)

Discusses changes in technology and culture described in the following books and implications for business communication instruction: William Glasser's "The Identity Society," Morris Massey's "What You Are Is Where You Were When," Alvin Toffler's "Future Shock" and "The Third Wave," and particularly, John…

Surveyed 100 corporations to identify and analyze current practices in writing international letters. Analyzed data relative to language, letter format, writing style, and communication skills needed by foreign correspondents. Identified curricular implications. (PD)

Describes a method of teaching business communications that cuts down on paperwork and emphasizes the process of writing. Termed the "office tutorial," the method is built upon a series of short, direct conferences between student and teacher. (FL)

Describes two teaching methods that use (1) oral reports to end student term paper plagiarism and (2) newspapers in business communication classes. (FL)

Points out that by using a cassette tape recorder, the teacher of report writing can better make a useful evaluation that explains more fully, clearly, and sympathetically how reports can be improved in both major and minor ways. (FL)

A survey of 14 business managers possessing outstanding dictating skills reveals that preparation is the key to efficient dictation, dictation is not confined to brief letters or memos, the ability to dictate over the phone and to machines is important, and you cannot dictate if you cannot write. (FL)