In this unit, we were required to define a complex term, used in our field of study, to an audience of non-technical readers. I chose to define the scrum methodology frequently used in the field of computer science. I had previous knowledge of the term and worked in an environment where it was utilized. Thus, I felt confident in my ability to define this term to a typical layperson. As a bonus, I learned a few knew things about the scrum methodology while completing this assignment.
During the writing process, I felt that the parenthetical and sentence definition was much harder to write, as opposed to the expanded definition, because they are meant to clarify a term without going into detail. It was difficult to summarize a type of methodology into a single sentence without including other complex words that also required further clarification. Writing the expanded definition was slightly tricky, as I did not want to offend the reader by over-defining the term, while also including enough detail to convey the concept.
I learned a lot about my own writing during the peer-review process. From reviewing my partner’s work, I realized some of the changes I suggested could also be applied to my own work. For example, a word that is intuitive to you may not be to others. Since I was somewhat familiar with my partner’s term, it made it slightly difficult to identify possible areas of confusion. I was able to point out the strengths that made my partner’s definition excel.
In my revised definition, I added a section on the history of scrum, suggested by my reviewer. While writing this section, I realized the significance of the history of the word and how it could help the reader solidify their understanding of the term. Another great suggestion was to number each role and ceremony as I was describing it to re-establish an earlier statement I made. I would not have realized that these minor changes could help provide a better overall conceptual explanation for the reader if not for the peer review process.
Overall, this lesson helped me understand the importance of knowing your audience and writing from your reader’s perspective. It has taught me the various levels of detail between a parenthetical, sentence, and expanded definition, including when to use one over the other. The peer-review process was a useful learning tool for identifying my strengths and weakness, and the ways in which I could improve my writing skills.
Word document: 301 Daniel Chen Revised Definition