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Michael Lazarou
The course focuses on enhancing academic writing understanding and skills, providing essential foundational tools for success. For school leavers, it bridges the gap between prior education and tertiary requirements, while for professionals returning to higher education, it ensures effective communication of ideas in an academic setting.
The course incorporates material to address AI technology's increasing influence on academic writing. This AI module stands as an independent section, allowing review and updates without disrupting the coherence of the entire course.
Register for this course and see more details by visiting:
OpenCourser.com/course/f98l9f/academic
What's inside
Learning objectives
- Clo1: explain the expectations of academic writing, including the differences between academic genres and diverse writing contexts.
- Clo2: apply methods for structuring and logically arranging pieces of writing in academic contexts, as well as how to clearly communicate to distinct target audiences.
- Clo3: implement strategies and practices around effective writing and research skills, with an emphasis on source integration and analysis.
- Clo4: summarise the role of artificial intelligence in contemporary tertiary educational settings, including how to appropriately use it in an ethical manner.
- Clo5: develop confidence and competence in practical study skills and effective study habits, developing a foundation for commencing academic study with confidence.
- Clo1: explain the expectations of academic writing, including the differences between academic genres and diverse writing contexts.
- Clo2: apply methods for structuring and logically arranging pieces of writing in academic contexts, as well as how to clearly communicate to distinct target audiences.
- Clo3: implement strategies and practices around effective writing and research skills, with an emphasis on source integration and analysis.
- Clo4: summarise the role of artificial intelligence in contemporary tertiary educational settings, including how to appropriately use it in an ethical manner.
- Clo5: develop confidence and competence in practical study skills and effective study habits, developing a foundation for commencing academic study with confidence.
Syllabus
Module 1
• Analyse assignment directives
• Demonstrate a comprehensive understanding of the features and conventions of a range of genres of academic writing.
Read more
Syllabus
Module 1
• Analyse assignment directives
• Demonstrate a comprehensive understanding of the features and conventions of a range of genres of academic writing.
Read more
Traffic lights
Traffic lights
Read about what's good
what should give you pause and
possible dealbreakers
Appropriate as a bridge between secondary and post-secondary education
Suitable for re-entering professional students
Provides an independent module on ethics and responsible use of AI
Meets tertiary-level expectations and audience needs
Integrates study, research, and writing skills for academic success
Incorporates emerging AI technology, enhancing writing skills
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Reviews summary
Foundational academic writing with ethical ai focus
According to learners, this course provides a solid foundation in academic writing, particularly praised for its clear lectures and logical structure that helps students build confidence in expressing ideas. Many highlight the highly relevant AI module, appreciating its focus on ethical usage and practical implications. While some experienced learners found the content basic or slow-paced, it is widely considered a game-changer for those new to academic writing or returning to study. The course effectively covers critical reading, source integration, and practical study skills.
Highly beneficial for those new to or returning to academic study.
"I highly recommend this for anyone returning to university!"
"As someone who hadn't written academically in years, this course re-ignited my skills."
"I think the material in this course is really good for absolute beginners."
Addresses AI's role and ethical use in academia.
"The module on AI was particularly insightful, providing a practical understanding of how to use these tools ethically..."
"I found the focus on ethical AI usage timely and relevant."
"The new AI content is a definite plus, even if I felt the overall pacing was a bit slow."
"The AI section was interesting, though I felt it was a bit tacked on rather than fully integrated."
Offers valuable strategies for essay structure and research.
"The course structure, from understanding assignment directives to constructing persuasive arguments, was very logical."
"I found the practical advice on note-taking and critical reading invaluable."
"I particularly appreciated the advice on structuring arguments and integrating evidence properly."
"The guidance on source integration and avoiding plagiarism was extremely helpful."
Provides a strong base for academic writing skills.
"This course was a game-changer for my academic writing... I feel much more confident in structuring my arguments and integrating sources now."
"It's absolutely brilliant! I now approach my essays with far greater confidence."
"The course really broke down complex concepts into manageable, understandable parts, leading to noticeable improvement in my academic performance."
"I gained a solid foundation in academic writing, which was very useful for improving my clarity."
May feel basic or slow-paced for those with prior experience.
"I found the course a bit basic for someone with a little prior experience in academic writing."
"This course felt somewhat redundant, much of it was a rehash of what I learned in high school."
"If you already have some experience, you might find the pace a bit slow."
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 Academic Writing with these
activities:
Organize your notes, assignments, quizzes, and exams
Show steps
This will help you stay organized and make it easier to find the information you need when you are studying or writing papers.
Show steps
-
Gather all of your notes, assignments, quizzes, and exams in one place.
-
Sort the materials by course and topic.
-
Create a system for filing the materials so that you can easily find them later.
Read a book on academic writing, such as 'The Craft of Research' by Wayne C. Booth, Gregory G. Colomb, and Joseph M. Williams
Show steps
This book provides a comprehensive overview of the principles of academic writing, from developing a research question to writing a final draft.
View
The Craft of Research, Fifth Edition (Chicago...
on Amazon
Show steps
-
Purchase or borrow a copy of the book.
-
Read the book carefully, taking notes as you go.
-
Complete the exercises and assignments in the book.
-
Apply the principles you learn from the book to your own academic writing.
Find a mentor who can provide guidance on academic writing
Show steps
A mentor can provide you with support and advice on your academic writing journey.
Show steps
-
Identify someone who is experienced in academic writing and who is willing to mentor you.
-
Contact the person and ask them if they would be willing to mentor you.
-
Meet with your mentor regularly to discuss your writing and get feedback.
Five other activities
Expand to see all activities and additional details
Show all eight activities
Practice identifying and analyzing academic writing genres
Show steps
Practice will help you become more adept at analyzing the structure and features of different types of academic writing, which is essential for understanding and producing effective academic texts.
Show steps
-
Review the different types of academic writing genres, such as essays, research papers, and literature reviews.
-
Find examples of each genre and analyze their structure, purpose, and language use.
-
Complete exercises that require you to identify and analyze the genre of academic texts.
Watch video tutorials on how to use specific academic writing software, such as Microsoft Word or LaTeX
Show steps
These tutorials will help you master the technical aspects of academic writing, such as formatting, referencing, and grammar checking.
Show steps
-
Identify the specific software you need to use for your academic writing.
-
Search for video tutorials on how to use the software.
-
Watch the tutorials and take notes on the key features and functions of the software.
-
Practice using the software by completing exercises or creating your own documents.
Join a study group or writing group
Show steps
This will give you the opportunity to get feedback on your writing and learn from other students.
Show steps
-
Find a study group or writing group that is relevant to your interests.
-
Join the group and participate in the meetings.
-
Share your work with the group and get feedback.
-
Help other students with their work.
Attend a conference or workshop on academic writing
Show steps
This will give you the opportunity to learn from experts in the field and network with other students and professionals.
Show steps
-
Find a conference or workshop on academic writing that is relevant to your interests.
-
Register for the event.
-
Attend the event and participate in the sessions.
-
Network with other students and professionals.
Write a short essay on a topic related to your field of study
Show steps
Writing an essay will allow you to apply the principles of academic writing, such as structuring your argument, using evidence, and writing in a clear and concise style.
Show steps
-
Choose a topic that you are interested in and that is relevant to your field of study.
-
Research the topic and gather evidence to support your argument.
-
Structure your essay with an introduction, body paragraphs, and a conclusion.
-
Write your essay in a clear and concise style, using proper grammar and punctuation.
-
Get feedback on your essay from a teacher, tutor, or peer.
Organize your notes, assignments, quizzes, and exams
Show steps
This will help you stay organized and make it easier to find the information you need when you are studying or writing papers.
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Gather all of your notes, assignments, quizzes, and exams in one place.
- Sort the materials by course and topic.
- Create a system for filing the materials so that you can easily find them later.
Read a book on academic writing, such as 'The Craft of Research' by Wayne C. Booth, Gregory G. Colomb, and Joseph M. Williams
Show steps
This book provides a comprehensive overview of the principles of academic writing, from developing a research question to writing a final draft.
View
The Craft of Research, Fifth Edition (Chicago...
on Amazon
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Purchase or borrow a copy of the book.
- Read the book carefully, taking notes as you go.
- Complete the exercises and assignments in the book.
- Apply the principles you learn from the book to your own academic writing.
Find a mentor who can provide guidance on academic writing
Show steps
A mentor can provide you with support and advice on your academic writing journey.
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Identify someone who is experienced in academic writing and who is willing to mentor you.
- Contact the person and ask them if they would be willing to mentor you.
- Meet with your mentor regularly to discuss your writing and get feedback.
Five other activities
Expand to see all activities and additional details
Show all eight activities
Practice identifying and analyzing academic writing genres
Show steps
Practice will help you become more adept at analyzing the structure and features of different types of academic writing, which is essential for understanding and producing effective academic texts.
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Review the different types of academic writing genres, such as essays, research papers, and literature reviews.
- Find examples of each genre and analyze their structure, purpose, and language use.
- Complete exercises that require you to identify and analyze the genre of academic texts.
Watch video tutorials on how to use specific academic writing software, such as Microsoft Word or LaTeX
Show steps
These tutorials will help you master the technical aspects of academic writing, such as formatting, referencing, and grammar checking.
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Identify the specific software you need to use for your academic writing.
- Search for video tutorials on how to use the software.
- Watch the tutorials and take notes on the key features and functions of the software.
- Practice using the software by completing exercises or creating your own documents.
Join a study group or writing group
Show steps
This will give you the opportunity to get feedback on your writing and learn from other students.
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Find a study group or writing group that is relevant to your interests.
- Join the group and participate in the meetings.
- Share your work with the group and get feedback.
- Help other students with their work.
Attend a conference or workshop on academic writing
Show steps
This will give you the opportunity to learn from experts in the field and network with other students and professionals.
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Find a conference or workshop on academic writing that is relevant to your interests.
- Register for the event.
- Attend the event and participate in the sessions.
- Network with other students and professionals.
Write a short essay on a topic related to your field of study
Show steps
Writing an essay will allow you to apply the principles of academic writing, such as structuring your argument, using evidence, and writing in a clear and concise style.
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Choose a topic that you are interested in and that is relevant to your field of study.
- Research the topic and gather evidence to support your argument.
- Structure your essay with an introduction, body paragraphs, and a conclusion.
- Write your essay in a clear and concise style, using proper grammar and punctuation.
- Get feedback on your essay from a teacher, tutor, or peer.
Career center
Learners who complete Academic Writing will develop knowledge and skills
that may be useful to these careers:
Academic Writer
Academic Writer
An Academic Writer creates articles, study guides, reports, and other written content for academic audiences. This course may be useful in providing a foundation for understanding academic writing conventions and expectations.
Professor
Professor
A Professor teaches and mentors students at a college or university. This course may provide a foundation for developing pedagogical skills and effectively communicating complex information to students.
Editor
Editor
An Editor reviews, corrects, and refines written content for various purposes. This course may help build a foundation for understanding editorial processes and best practices.
Technical Writer
Technical Writer
A Technical Writer creates instruction manuals, documentation, and other materials that explain technical concepts. This course may be useful in providing an understanding of clear and concise writing for a technical audience.
Journalist
Journalist
A Journalist researches, writes, and reports on news and current events. This course may be useful in developing skills in research, analysis, and clear writing for a general audience.
Content Writer
Content Writer
A Content Writer creates written content for websites, social media, and other digital platforms. This course may help build a foundation for understanding content writing principles and audience engagement.
Grant Writer
Grant Writer
A Grant Writer prepares and submits grant proposals to secure funding for various projects and initiatives. This course may be useful in developing skills in writing persuasive and well-structured grant proposals.
Policy Analyst
Policy Analyst
A Policy Analyst researches, analyzes, and develops public policies. This course may provide a foundation for understanding policy writing conventions and effectively communicating policy recommendations.
Researcher
Researcher
A Researcher conducts studies and experiments to gather and analyze data. This course may be useful in developing skills in writing research reports and presenting research findings.
Speechwriter
Speechwriter
A Speechwriter creates speeches and presentations for public figures and organizations. This course may be useful in developing skills in writing persuasive and engaging speeches.
Copywriter
Copywriter
A Copywriter creates written content for advertising and marketing campaigns. This course may provide a foundation for understanding copywriting techniques and effective messaging.
User Experience Writer
User Experience Writer
A User Experience Writer creates written content for websites, apps, and other digital products to enhance user experience. This course may be useful in developing skills in writing clear and concise user-centered content.
Instructional Designer
Instructional Designer
An Instructional Designer creates and develops educational materials and learning experiences. This course may provide a foundation for understanding instructional design principles and effective writing for educational purposes.
Curriculum Developer
Curriculum Developer
A Curriculum Developer designs and develops educational programs and curricula. This course may be useful in providing a foundation for understanding curriculum development principles and writing effective educational materials.
Technical Communicator
Technical Communicator
A Technical Communicator creates and delivers technical information to various audiences. This course may provide a foundation for understanding technical communication principles and effectively conveying complex technical concepts.
For more career information including salaries, visit:
OpenCourser.com/course/f98l9f/academic
Reading list
We've selected 13 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
Academic Writing.
Provides comprehensive guidance on the conventions and practices of academic writing at the graduate level. It is particularly relevant for students who are new to academic writing or who need a refresher on the fundamentals.
Save
Provides comprehensive guidance on academic writing for graduate students. It is particularly relevant for students who are new to academic writing or who need a refresher on the fundamentals.
Provides practical advice on how to effectively integrate sources into your academic writing. It valuable resource for students who want to improve their research and writing skills.
A classic guide to clear and concise writing, this book is essential reading for anyone who wants to improve their writing skills. It is particularly useful for students who are struggling with the basics of grammar and punctuation.
Save
Explores the potential and challenges of using AI in education. It must-read for students who want to learn more about the role of AI in contemporary higher education.
Provides a comprehensive guide to the research process. It valuable resource for students who are conducting research for their academic writing.
Provides practical advice on how to write a successful thesis. It valuable resource for students who are in the early stages of their research.
Save
This style guide is the standard for academic writing in the United States. It is an essential reference for students who want to ensure that their writing meets the highest standards of academic excellence.
Save
This style guide is the standard for academic writing in the humanities. It is an essential reference for students who want to ensure that their writing meets the highest standards of academic excellence.
Provides practical advice on how to use sources in your academic writing. It valuable resource for students who want to improve their research and writing skills.
This dictionary is the definitive guide to the English language. It is an essential reference for students who want to improve their vocabulary and writing skills.
This online thesaurus valuable resource for students who want to expand their vocabulary and improve their writing skills.
This online grammar checker valuable tool for students who want to improve their grammar and writing skills.
For more information about how these books relate to this course, visit:
OpenCourser.com/course/f98l9f/academic
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Effort
3 to 10 hours per week for 4 weeks
Level
Introductory
Via
edX
Institution
University of Adelaide
Instructor
Michael Lazarou
Language
English
Transcript
English
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