Abstract
This paper delves into the role of the humanities within professional writing courses, particularly amidst declining undergraduate enrollment in humanities fields across American universities. In this study, I explore the value of integrating narrative studies into the business communication undergraduate curriculum, not as a substitute for traditional English classes, but rather as a means to broaden the presence of the humanities beyond its conventional domains while simultaneously reimagining traditional business communication pedagogy. Specifically, I examine how an emphasis on storytelling techniques in business can not only cultivate students’ interest in writing but also enhance their ability to communicate clearly and persuasively. I look at the growing significance of storytelling in both popular and academic discussions on business communication, and propose leveraging this research within the classroom to craft assignments that engage students, thus challenging their inclination towards AI. Looking at student writing samples, I demonstrate how creativity and personal expression through storytelling helps counteract the challenges AI creates for the writing classroom. By concentrating on storytelling, students are encouraged to view professional writing as a space for creative expression rather than formulaic and thus susceptible to automation. Instead, emphasizing storytelling as a core element of persuasive and compelling forms of writing such as formal reports and grant applications, teaches the importance of individual voice and the broader value of the humanities in professional contexts.
Presenters
Nicole ZeftelClinical Assistant Professor, School of Management, University at Buffalo, New York, United States
Details
Presentation Type
Paper Presentation in a Themed Session
Theme
Past and Present in the Humanistic Education
KEYWORDS
Writing, Communication, Professional Communication, Storytelling, Narrative, Humanities, Pedagogy, Business
