Describes an assignment designed to improve students' oral presentation skills in the context of making a short sales presentation to their peers. Notes that students work hard on the presentation and are rewarded by the reception they receive from their peers. (RS)

Points out how the work of Robert Zoellner helps students to achieve professional competence as speakers and writers. Discusses the "talk-write" model, which focuses on speaking and writing as behaviors and uses reinforcement to shape effective writing. (EL)

Examines the advantages and disadvantages of incorporating educational debate into a marketing class. Notes that marketing debates can provide valuable experience both to help students learn various sides of controversial issues and to develop oral communication skills. (MM)

Examines the table of contents and the indexes of nine business communication and five technical writing textbooks for coverage of the skills that are needed by businesspeople and engineers. Concludes that technical writing texts are preferable for writing skills, whereas business communication texts are better for oral skills. Makes…