I analyzed how science and technology are presented to the public. Topics I studied include rhetorical perspectives, contextual connections, and techniques for writing engaging nonfictional prose. Using this theoretical framework as a critical lens, I examined coverage of the DARPA Robotics Challenge. Many articles failed to explain the historic significance, technological complexity, and military applications of the nominally-humanitarian technology of the Challenge. I conclude by writing an article about the Challenge that attempts to improve public understanding of robotics.

• This report represents the work of one or more WPI undergraduate students submitted to the faculty as evidence of completion of a degree requirement. WPI routinely publishes these reports on its website without editorial or peer review.

Creator

• Mowris, Ransom Philip

Publisher

• Worcester Polytechnic Institute

Identifier

• E-project-050114-132119

Advisor

• Demetry, Chrysanthe

Year

• 2014

Date created

• 2014-05-01

Resource type

• Major Qualifying Project

Major

• Professional Writing

Rights statement

• In Copyright