The ME Rats Discourse Community uses plain talking and engineering papers as its main methods of communication.

Talking is used as the main method of communication. In our community people talk about VMI, life, but mainly school work. With talking, one can clear up a misunderstanding in a lectur or explain a concept a classmate simply does not understand. Talking is the primary form of communication because it is quick and easy. This is great because Rats never have time, and the quickest method of communication must be utilzed. Also, since the ME Rats common area is sort of cramped with tables, moving around is hard and communication such as talking that requires no moving makes life much easier.

Engineering paper is another method of communication. 99% of ME Rats use engineering paper for homework, so when somebody needs a problem explained, this paper is used to communicate the answer. I have personally not seen it, but it is possible that this paper could be used as scratch paper for quick notes too.