Readability and the Production of Instructional Text in the Royal Navy,
Abstract
This report is an examination of readability and the production of instructional text in the Royal Navy. After defining readability, the history and reasons for development of the subject are outlined. The results of a survey to assess knowledge of the subject in Royal Navy training establishments are reported. The nature of reading and factors affecting compreshension are considered, and methods of assessing readability are examined in detail. It is proposed that the present methods of writing and designing instructional text in the Royal Navy could be improved. However, it is recognised that there is no single best method of writing and measuring the effectiveness of text. A compromise solution is recommended, involving the adoption of a general but systematic approach. This could be implemented by the development of a practical course and guide based on research findings for improving written communication. A review of guidelines for the production of instructional text based on empirical research is presented in Appendix F. An outline of proposed writer's production checklist or job aid is presented in Appendix G. (Author)
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Nov 01, 1980
- Accession Number
- ADA097272
Entities
People
- B. A. Brooking