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Alice Llanos
and
Rachel Kraut, Ph.D.
The English and Academic Preparation – Grad Track non-credit course is for students who wish to strengthen their academic skills in preparation for graduate studies. This certificate course is designed to help both domestic and international students communicate more effectively in spoken and written contexts, read and comprehend scholarly texts, and take notes more efficiently. Ideally, prospective students have completed or are near completion of a bachelor’s degree and would like to study for a master’s or doctorate degree in the United States.
Read more
The English and Academic Preparation – Grad Track non-credit course is for students who wish to strengthen their academic skills in preparation for graduate studies. This certificate course is designed to help both domestic and international students communicate more effectively in spoken and written contexts, read and comprehend scholarly texts, and take notes more efficiently. Ideally, prospective students have completed or are near completion of a bachelor’s degree and would like to study for a master’s or doctorate degree in the United States.
Read more
The English and Academic Preparation – Grad Track non-credit course is for students who wish to strengthen their academic skills in preparation for graduate studies. This certificate course is designed to help both domestic and international students communicate more effectively in spoken and written contexts, read and comprehend scholarly texts, and take notes more efficiently. Ideally, prospective students have completed or are near completion of a bachelor’s degree and would like to study for a master’s or doctorate degree in the United States.
The total length of time required to complete the course is approximately 4 weeks. Students should expect to spend about 3-4 hours per week working with the materials and assignments.
The course is made up of 4 modules:
• Listening, Speaking, and Critical Thinking
• Writer’s Workshop
• Reading and Note-taking
• Capstone Project
Each module consists of video lessons, opportunities for practicing English and academic skills, interactive discussion boards with classmates, and graded activities. The course is asynchronous, which means that the lessons and their activities can be completed at any time of day or night.
Register for this course and see more details by visiting:
OpenCourser.com/course/8t2hus/english
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What's inside
Syllabus
Listening, Speaking and Critical Thinking
In this module, we will learn some skills necessary for listening to and speaking about academic topics at the graduate level.
Read more
Syllabus
Listening, Speaking and Critical Thinking
In this module, we will learn some skills necessary for listening to and speaking about academic topics at the graduate level.
Read more
Traffic lights
Traffic lights
Read about what's good
what should give you pause and
possible dealbreakers
Focuses on developing essential skills for success in graduate studies
Taught by instructors with expertise in English language instruction and academic preparation
Offers a comprehensive overview of key academic skills, including listening, speaking, writing, reading, and note-taking
Provides opportunities for interactive practice and feedback through discussion boards and graded activities
Ideal for students who are nearing completion of a bachelor's degree and plan to pursue a graduate degree in the United States
Asynchronous format allows students to complete the course at their own pace
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Reviews summary
Graduate academic skills preparation
According to what prospective learners might anticipate, this academic preparation course from Rice University is designed to provide essential English and academic skills for graduate studies. It focuses on improving communication in spoken and written contexts, comprehending scholarly texts, and efficient note-taking. The asynchronous format offers flexibility, covering listening, speaking, critical thinking, writing, reading, and note-taking across its four modules, culminating in a capstone project. Learners may find the 4-week, low-commitment structure manageable, though success would likely hinge on consistent engagement with the video lessons and graded activities.
Delivers key skills within a concise and manageable timeframe.
"The 4-week duration feels efficient for covering these essential preparatory skills."
"Spending just 3-4 hours a week seems manageable, even with other commitments."
"It's a good condensed program for a quick academic skill boost before grad school."
The course design culminates in a project applying all learned academic skills.
"The capstone project is a great way to synthesize everything learned in the previous modules."
"It allows me to practice applying graduate-level academic skills in a realistic scenario."
"I expect the capstone to be the crowning achievement, demonstrating my progress."
Offers convenient self-paced learning suitable for busy schedules.
"The asynchronous nature of the course is perfect for my busy schedule, letting me learn anytime."
"Being able to complete lessons at my own pace would be a huge advantage."
"It's great for students who need flexibility and cannot attend live sessions."
Aims to build essential English and academic skills for graduate studies.
"I appreciate how this course covers all the key areas: listening, speaking, reading, and writing for graduate school."
"It truly prepares you for the academic rigor required in a Master's or PhD program."
"The modules on note-taking and critical thinking seem particularly valuable for academic success."
Provides broad academic preparation but may not delve into highly specialized areas.
"This course offers a broad overview, which is great for general preparation, but perhaps not for deep dives into niche academic writing styles."
"If you're already very proficient in some areas, certain content might feel like a review."
"It seems to be an excellent foundation, but I wouldn't expect it to replace extensive individual tutoring for specific weaknesses."
The asynchronous format may demand strong self-management and motivation.
"Since it's self-paced, you really need to be disciplined to keep up with the modules and assignments."
"Without live classes, staying motivated and on schedule is entirely up to the individual learner."
"I anticipate needing to actively set aside dedicated time each week to truly benefit from the materials."
Activities
Be better prepared
before
your course. Deepen your understanding
during
and
after
it. Supplement your coursework and achieve mastery of the topics covered
in English and Academic Preparation - Grad Track with these
activities:
Review Basic English Grammar
Show steps
Get a refresher on English grammar fundamentals to prepare for academic coursework.
Browse courses on
English Grammar
Show steps
-
Go over the parts of speech (nouns, verbs, adjectives, adverbs, etc.)
-
Review sentence structure (subject, verb, object, modifiers)
-
Practice identifying and correcting common grammatical errors
Practice Active Listening Exercises
Show steps
Engage in active listening exercises to enhance your understanding of spoken English.
Browse courses on
Active Listening
Show steps
-
Listen attentively to conversations, focusing on understanding the main points
-
Summarize what you've heard in your own words
-
Ask clarifying questions to ensure comprehension
Follow Online Writing Workshops
Show steps
Enroll in guided online workshops to sharpen your writing skills.
Browse courses on
Writing Skills
Show steps
-
Choose workshops that cover topics like thesis development, argumentation, and research methods
-
Complete exercises and assignments to receive feedback and improve writing
-
Apply techniques learned to your own academic writing
Five other activities
Expand to see all activities and additional details
Show all eight activities
Develop a Glossary of Academic Terms
Show steps
Compile a comprehensive glossary of academic terms relevant to your field of study.
Browse courses on
Academic Vocabulary
Show steps
-
Identify key terms and concepts from your coursework and readings
-
Provide clear definitions and explanations for each term
-
Organize the glossary alphabetically or by topic
Read and Critique 'The Elements of Style'
Show steps
Read and analyze Strunk's classic guide to improve your writing clarity and conciseness.
Show steps
-
Read the book thoroughly, paying attention to the principles of clear writing
-
Identify specific examples of well-written and poorly-written sentences
-
Rewrite passages from the book to demonstrate your understanding of the principles
Attend Weekly Discussion Groups
Show steps
Participate in weekly discussion groups to engage with classmates and practice using academic English.
Browse courses on
Collaborative Learning
Show steps
-
Join or form a discussion group with classmates
-
Prepare for discussions by reading the assigned materials
-
Actively participate in discussions, sharing your ideas and perspectives
Volunteer as a Tutor or Mentor
Show steps
Volunteer as a tutor or mentor to practice your communication and teaching skills in an academic setting.
Browse courses on
Tutoring
Show steps
-
Identify opportunities to volunteer at local schools or community organizations
-
Prepare lessons and activities that support students' academic development
-
Provide guidance and support to students, both in academic and non-academic areas
Attend Workshops on Thesis Writing
Show steps
Attend workshops to develop your skills in formulating a research question, conducting research, and writing a thesis.
Browse courses on
Thesis Writing
Show steps
-
Identify workshops that align with your research interests and career goals
-
Actively participate in the workshops, asking questions and engaging in discussions
-
Apply the knowledge and techniques learned to your own research project
Review Basic English Grammar
Show steps
Get a refresher on English grammar fundamentals to prepare for academic coursework.
Browse courses on
English Grammar
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Go over the parts of speech (nouns, verbs, adjectives, adverbs, etc.)
- Review sentence structure (subject, verb, object, modifiers)
- Practice identifying and correcting common grammatical errors
Practice Active Listening Exercises
Show steps
Engage in active listening exercises to enhance your understanding of spoken English.
Browse courses on
Active Listening
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Listen attentively to conversations, focusing on understanding the main points
- Summarize what you've heard in your own words
- Ask clarifying questions to ensure comprehension
Follow Online Writing Workshops
Show steps
Enroll in guided online workshops to sharpen your writing skills.
Browse courses on
Writing Skills
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Choose workshops that cover topics like thesis development, argumentation, and research methods
- Complete exercises and assignments to receive feedback and improve writing
- Apply techniques learned to your own academic writing
Five other activities
Expand to see all activities and additional details
Show all eight activities
Develop a Glossary of Academic Terms
Show steps
Compile a comprehensive glossary of academic terms relevant to your field of study.
Browse courses on
Academic Vocabulary
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Identify key terms and concepts from your coursework and readings
- Provide clear definitions and explanations for each term
- Organize the glossary alphabetically or by topic
Read and Critique 'The Elements of Style'
Show steps
Read and analyze Strunk's classic guide to improve your writing clarity and conciseness.
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Read the book thoroughly, paying attention to the principles of clear writing
- Identify specific examples of well-written and poorly-written sentences
- Rewrite passages from the book to demonstrate your understanding of the principles
Attend Weekly Discussion Groups
Show steps
Participate in weekly discussion groups to engage with classmates and practice using academic English.
Browse courses on
Collaborative Learning
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Join or form a discussion group with classmates
- Prepare for discussions by reading the assigned materials
- Actively participate in discussions, sharing your ideas and perspectives
Volunteer as a Tutor or Mentor
Show steps
Volunteer as a tutor or mentor to practice your communication and teaching skills in an academic setting.
Browse courses on
Tutoring
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Identify opportunities to volunteer at local schools or community organizations
- Prepare lessons and activities that support students' academic development
- Provide guidance and support to students, both in academic and non-academic areas
Attend Workshops on Thesis Writing
Show steps
Attend workshops to develop your skills in formulating a research question, conducting research, and writing a thesis.
Browse courses on
Thesis Writing
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Identify workshops that align with your research interests and career goals
- Actively participate in the workshops, asking questions and engaging in discussions
- Apply the knowledge and techniques learned to your own research project
Career center
Learners who complete English and Academic Preparation - Grad Track will develop knowledge and skills
that may be useful to these careers:
College Professor
College Professor
College Professors teach and mentor students in higher education institutions. The English and Academic Preparation - Grad Track course may be useful for individuals interested in becoming College Professors as it provides foundational skills in communication, critical thinking, and academic writing, all of which are essential for success in teaching and research.
Writer
Writer
Writers create and produce written content for a variety of purposes, including news articles, blog posts, marketing materials, and creative works. The English and Academic Preparation - Grad Track course may be useful for individuals interested in becoming Writers as it provides foundational skills in academic writing, grammar, and critical thinking, all of which are essential for success in this field.
Editor
Editor
Editors review, revise, and prepare written content for publication. The English and Academic Preparation - Grad Track course may be useful for individuals interested in becoming Editors as it provides foundational skills in grammar, punctuation, and style, all of which are essential for success in this field.
Public Relations Specialist
Public Relations Specialist
Public Relations Specialists manage the public image of organizations and individuals. The English and Academic Preparation - Grad Track course may be useful for individuals interested in becoming Public Relations Specialists as it provides foundational skills in communication, critical thinking, and media relations, all of which are essential for success in this field.
Marketing Manager
Marketing Manager
Marketing Managers develop and execute marketing campaigns to promote products and services. The English and Academic Preparation - Grad Track course may be useful for individuals interested in becoming Marketing Managers as it provides foundational skills in communication, critical thinking, and consumer behavior, all of which are essential for success in this field.
Sales Manager
Sales Manager
Sales Managers lead and motivate sales teams to achieve revenue targets. The English and Academic Preparation - Grad Track course may be useful for individuals interested in becoming Sales Managers as it provides foundational skills in communication, negotiation, and customer relationship management, all of which are essential for success in this field.
Business Analyst
Business Analyst
Business Analysts identify and analyze business needs and develop solutions to improve efficiency and productivity. The English and Academic Preparation - Grad Track course may be useful for individuals interested in becoming Business Analysts as it provides foundational skills in critical thinking, problem-solving, and data analysis, all of which are essential for success in this field.
Project Manager
Project Manager
Project Managers plan, execute, and close projects to achieve specific objectives. The English and Academic Preparation - Grad Track course may be useful for individuals interested in becoming Project Managers as it provides foundational skills in communication, leadership, and project management, all of which are essential for success in this field.
Human Resources Manager
Human Resources Manager
Human Resources Managers manage the human capital of organizations. The English and Academic Preparation - Grad Track course may be useful for individuals interested in becoming Human Resources Managers as it provides foundational skills in communication, conflict resolution, and employee relations, all of which are essential for success in this field.
Nonprofit Manager
Nonprofit Manager
Nonprofit Managers lead and manage nonprofit organizations to achieve their missions. The English and Academic Preparation - Grad Track course may be useful for individuals interested in becoming Nonprofit Managers as it provides foundational skills in communication, fundraising, and stakeholder management, all of which are essential for success in this field.
Social Worker
Social Worker
Social Workers help individuals, families, and communities address social and emotional challenges. The English and Academic Preparation - Grad Track course may be useful for individuals interested in becoming Social Workers as it provides foundational skills in communication, counseling, and social work practice, all of which are essential for success in this field.
Counselor
Counselor
Counselors help individuals address mental health and emotional issues. The English and Academic Preparation - Grad Track course may be useful for individuals interested in becoming Counselors as it provides foundational skills in communication, counseling, and mental health, all of which are essential for success in this field.
Teacher
Teacher
Teachers educate and support students in their academic and personal development. The English and Academic Preparation - Grad Track course may be useful for individuals interested in becoming Teachers as it provides foundational skills in communication, lesson planning, and classroom management, all of which are essential for success in this field.
Librarian
Librarian
Librarians manage and provide access to information resources in libraries. The English and Academic Preparation - Grad Track course may be useful for individuals interested in becoming Librarians as it provides foundational skills in information literacy, research, and library management, all of which are essential for success in this field.
Archivist
Archivist
Archivists preserve and manage historical records and artifacts. The English and Academic Preparation - Grad Track course may be useful for individuals interested in becoming Archivists as it provides foundational skills in archival theory, preservation, and research, all of which are essential for success in this field.
For more career information including salaries, visit:
OpenCourser.com/course/8t2hus/english
Reading list
We've selected 14 books
that we think will supplement your
learning. Use these to
develop background knowledge, enrich your coursework, and gain a
deeper understanding of the topics covered in
English and Academic Preparation - Grad Track.
Is the definitive dictionary of the English language. It contains over 600,000 words and phrases, and it is the ultimate authority on spelling, pronunciation, and usage. The book is also a valuable resource for etymologists and lexicographers.
Save
Is the essential reference guide for academic writing. It provides detailed guidance on grammar, punctuation, style, and formatting. The book is also a valuable resource for researchers and professionals.
Classic guide to academic writing for graduate students. It provides clear and concise advice on how to write effective research papers, theses, and dissertations. The book also includes helpful examples and exercises.
Save
Comprehensive guide to the history, structure, and usage of the English language. It provides clear and concise explanations of complex linguistic concepts, and it is an essential resource for anyone who wants to learn more about English.
Classic guide to research methods. It provides clear and concise advice on how to design and conduct research projects. The book valuable resource for anyone who wants to learn more about research methods.
Classic guide to clear and concise writing. It provides simple and effective advice on how to write effective sentences, paragraphs, and essays. The book valuable resource for anyone who wants to improve their writing skills.
Save
Practical guide to writing well. It provides clear and concise advice on how to write effective essays, articles, and books. The book valuable resource for anyone who wants to improve their writing skills.
Save
Is the official style guide for Reuters. It provides clear and concise instructions on how to write news stories in Reuters style. The book valuable resource for anyone who writes news stories.
Comprehensive guide to writing for college students. It provides clear and concise advice on how to write effective essays, research papers, and other academic documents. The book valuable resource for anyone who wants to improve their writing skills.
Save
Comprehensive guide to MLA, APA, and Chicago style formatting. It provides clear and concise instructions on how to cite sources correctly. The book valuable resource for anyone who wants to improve their research skills.
Is the official style guide for the American Psychological Association (APA). It provides clear and concise instructions on how to cite sources correctly in APA style. The book valuable resource for anyone who writes in APA style.
Save
Is the official style guide for the Modern Language Association (MLA). It provides clear and concise instructions on how to cite sources correctly in MLA style. The book valuable resource for anyone who writes in MLA style.
Is the official style guide for The Associated Press (AP). It provides clear and concise instructions on how to write news stories in AP style. The book valuable resource for anyone who writes news stories.
Comprehensive guide to writing scientific papers and reports. It provides clear and concise advice on how to write effective introductions, methods, results, and discussions. The book valuable resource for anyone who wants to improve their scientific writing skills.
For more information about how these books relate to this course, visit:
OpenCourser.com/course/8t2hus/english
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Effort
4 weeks of study, 3-4 hours/week
Level
Intermediate
Via
Coursera
Institution
Rice University
Instructors
Alice Llanos
Rachel Kraut, Ph.D.
Language
English
Transcripts
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