Yeqing Kong

As organizations increasingly adopt AI technologies, there is a growing recognition of its potential to enhance the efficiency and effectiveness of technical communication processes. AI-powered language models, chatbots, and natural language processing algorithms are revolutionizing the creation and dissemination of technical content. For example, the production of manuals, documentation, and instructional materials has been automated by generative AI tools, resulting in significant time savings and elevated content quality. In this talk, I will discuss major AI-driven revolutions in technical communication, such as user experience, content strategy, document design, science writing, and health and medical writing. By examining specific instances of AI implementation, I aim to provide a nuanced understanding of the profound changes reshaping these domains.

I will also address the challenges and ethical considerations arising from the integration of AI in technical communication. As AI algorithms autonomously generate content, there is a need for scrutiny to ensure accuracy, clarity, and adherence to ethical standards. Moreover, the discussion will extend to the importance of maintaining equilibrium between automated and human elements in technical communication, emphasizing the collaborative potential embodied in AI-human partnerships, often referred to as the “human-in-the-loop” approach.

In summary, this presentation invites attendees to engage in insightful discussions on navigating the evolving rhetorical situations of technical communication in the era of generative AI. By exploring both the advancements and ethical dimensions, participants will gain valuable insights into strategies for effectively adapting to the transformative impact of AI on technical communication practices.