Dr. Jeanne Linsdell, Director of Technical Communication at the College of Engineering at San Jose State University in California traveled to Ukraine to share her expertise with Mykolayiv State Petro Mohyla Humanities University faculty over a three week period. Her goal was to further develop the techincal English writing skills and research practices of computer science students. She was hosted by the Dean of the Foreign Language Department, Oleksander Pronkevych.

Following a presentation on technical writing to the faculty, Dr. Linsdell observed 10 English teachers in their class periods and gave them individual feedback. She studied the curriculum of teaching technical English writing and consulted with the department faculty. After observing computer science and lab classes, she supplied the faculty with detailed class handouts, specific assignments, and teaching tools.

Plans were initiated to develop a new course which will be co-taught by a teacher of technical English together with one in computer science. Dr. Linsdell will continue to Consult on this project as the syllabus is being developed.

During her stay, Dr. Linsdell was also able to participate in the International Conference, Olbian Forum 2008: “Strategies of Ukraine in Geopolitical Space.”

On a personal note:

This has been an amazing experience. The people are WONDERFUL, the food is great, and it is a fascinating time in history to be in Ukraine. The Fulbright programs have a strong history in Mykolaiv. The university faculty and administrators are very supportive. Fulbright and Peace Corps workers are also involved at the local level with the English Club; I attended three of their meetings and am very impressed with their local outreach.