Digital Writing offers a practical rhetorical framework for writing and analyzing content for social media and the web. In an age of disinformation, algorithmic influence, and hyper-targeted digital advertising, writers must approach the digital landscape with both critical awareness and strategic intent. Drawing on classical and contemporary rhetoric, the philosophy of technology, and digital media theory, the book offers an interdisciplinary foundation for real-world digital writing. It also prepares readers for careers in digital writing, marketing, and communications, with particular attention to the ethical challenges of social and digital media.
The second edition features major updates reflecting today’s rapidly evolving digital landscape, including a new chapter on artificial intelligence that critically examines the topic and emphasizes the value of human-driven writing. New end-of-chapter exercises further support readers in developing practical, adaptable skills for writing in digital environments.
An instructor site includes quizzes for each chapter, discussion board prompts, a sample syllabus, and links to digital skills training programs with certification opportunities.
Comments
“The second edition of Digital Writing is a fresh and up-to-date pedagogical resource for the study and teaching of rhetoric and digital composition. From lessons in the use of social media to an introductory chapter on GenAI, the book provides well-thought-out explanations of key rhetorical concepts. Teachers will appreciate the work Dan Lawrence has done creating thoughtful and engaging student exercises, making this new edition a thoroughly useful resource for designing and teaching undergraduate courses in rhetoric and writing studies.” — Jim Ridolfo, Professor and Chair, Department of Writing, Rhetoric, and Digital Studies, University of Kentucky
“Digital Writing is important, practical, and easily accessible for a wide audience of students. Though the idea of what it takes to create and analyze digital writing changes almost daily, Lawrence grounds his book in timeless rhetorical principles that are powerful enough to adapt to emerging genres and practices. In addition to giving students strong examples to help understand concepts, Lawrence provides a wealth of approaches to help student writers develop skills they need to write in the age of AI and beyond.” — Robert Folk, Kutztown University
“The new edition of Lawrence’s invaluable book is a timely and necessary contribution to the discourse around digital writing careers and artificial intelligence. Rather than either endorsing generative writing tools uncritically or dismissing them outright, Lawrence offers a welcome, nuanced perspective that I have not seen in other writing and rhetoric texts…. I used the first edition of this book for the last four years in a marketing writing course, and I am thrilled to incorporate the second edition into my class.” — Katie Sagal, Cornell College
