This paper describes the methodology component of a funded project which has brought together faculty on technical communication and the learning sciences from our campuses in the US and the Middle East. The goal of the project is to research, develop and disseminate in classrooms and local workplaces online modules aimed at improving professional communication practices. In order to understand such global practices, we developed a methodology which would accurately capture these practices and align them with learning objectives and goals. This methodology combines quantitative and qualitative approaches, including discourse-based interviews, student and professional work products, and literature research on student writing development.