Understanding the Rhetoric of Research

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Students who pursue research in English and composition studies can familiarize themselves with specific rhetorical conventions by studying journals, books, and other forums where established members of the research communities present their work. Scholars who look at the historical development of English and composition journals find that what is thought to be appropriate and desirable research methodology and rhetorical style changes along with English studies and the influence of journal editors. What might not be so obvious to the reader is that during the past century, members of the English community have drawn on other disciplines to widen the breadth of their research methods and presentation formats.

For a look at the history of four journals in English studies, see our discussion of The Evolution of Four Key Journals.