Re: grammar & workplace writing, reply

["Jeanne H. Simpson" <csjhs@ux1.cts.eiu.edu>]

Lynne

You got it.  The status markers that indicate fitness for tenure and
promotion are quite clear.  Just like having the right dress to wear for tea
with the Queen.   Standard grammar and punctuation, publications, service
on the right committees...yup, that's how it's done, tenure and promotion
being prime examples of status.  

And since you mention it, I'd like to call the attention of the group to a
very interesting piece of work on this subject, Promotion and Tenure:
Community and Socialization in Academe, by William G. Tierney and Esstela
Mara Bensimon, SUNY press, 1996.   One of the things they point out is
that there is only the perception of consistency of procedure in the
academy, not reality.  And very strongly held beliefs about the culture of
tenure/promotion on each campus.

Jeanne Simpson
csjhs@eiu.edu


Lynne Belcher > 
> I'm not sure I buy the argument that "grammar" isn't important in 
> work-place writing.  I would like to see how anyone who has the 
> power over termination and promotion would respond to something 
> written with the kinds of errors Hairston identifies as being 
> "status markers."  It really don't make me no nevermind, though.  
> 
> Lynne Belcher
> 
>