Please note! Course description is confirmed for two academic years, which means that in general, e.g. Learning outcomes, assessment methods and key content stays unchanged. However, via course syllabus, it is possible to specify or change the course execution in each realization of the course, such as how the contact sessions are organized, assessment methods weighted or materials used.
LEARNING OUTCOMES
Upon completion of this course, participants will be able to
- Recognise the features of effective academic writing for their own fields
- Recognise ineffective sentences and utilise techniques for re-writing them
- Analyse sample texts to identify the language conventions and style particular to their own fields of study
Credits: 3
Schedule: 26.10.2020 - 02.12.2020
Teacher in charge (valid 01.08.2020-31.07.2022): Heli Dahlin, Susan Gamache, Pia Lappalainen, Signe-Anita Lindgren, Diane Pilkinton-Pihko
Teacher in charge (applies in this implementation): Diane Pilkinton-Pihko
Contact information for the course (valid 25.09.2020-21.12.2112):
diane.pilkinton-pihko@aalto.fi
CEFR level (valid 01.08.2020-31.07.2022):
C1 or higher
Language of instruction and studies (valid 01.08.2020-31.07.2022):
English
CONTENT, ASSESSMENT AND WORKLOAD
Content
Valid 01.08.2020-31.07.2022:
As part of this course, students must bring samples of their scientific writing-in-progress as this material forms a core part of the course. During the course, students work to improve their writing as they apply skills and techniques introduced in the course. The course content will include aspects of writing, such as
- Internal organisation of a text, including sequencing of information, paragraph writing and sentence structures
- Appropriateness to the reader (i.e. the target audience), including text structure, sentence and paragraph length, and vocabulary choice
- Clarity of the message (information organisation, referencing, and cohesiveness)
- Writing effective sentences, paragraphs and sections (such as abstracts, introductions, and conclusions)
- Argumentation and researcher positioning/stance
- Editing for accuracyThe coursework will enable participants to write more effectively and with greater confidence for an international readership. In response to student needs, the course design includes individual and pair exercises, analysis, and critiques, all of which focus on training participants with specific tools for producing improved text. Simultaneously, students will be guided in recognising stylistic and organisational features common to formal written English, and applying features appropriate in their specific fields. As part of feedback, students submit their written text(s) for teacher and peer review.
Working Life Skills: Skills in a foreign language, Written communication, Information retrieval, Ethical consciousness, Critical thinking, Lifelong learning, Self-confidence, Analytical skills, Time-management, Self-awareness, and Knowledge of research in own field.
Applies in this implementation:
The course content includes various aspects of writing, such as
- Internal organization of a text, including sequencing of information, paragraph writing and sentence structures
- Appropriateness to the reader (i.e. the target audience), including text structure, sentence and paragraph length, and vocabulary choice
- Clarity of the message (information organization, referencing, and cohesiveness)
- Writing effective titles, sentences, paragraphs, and sections (abstracts, introductions, results, discussion, and conclusions)
- Argumentation and researcher positioning/stance
- Editing for accuracy
Assessment Methods and Criteria
Valid 01.08.2020-31.07.2022:
Continuous assessment, completion of writing assignments and completion of course assignments. Note: Regular attendance and active participation required.
Applies in this implementation:
A pass requires the following:
- Keeping pace with the course, including timely preparation of assignments
- Active participation in the workshops and activities
- Completing the assignments and quizzes
- Peer reviewing a final assignment (with written and verbal feedback)
- Implementing teacher and peer feedback into the assignments
Workload
Valid 01.08.2020-31.07.2022:
Small-group instruction 24 - 36 h + independent work 45 - 57 h
DETAILS
Study Material
Valid 01.08.2020-31.07.2022:
Available in MyCourses
Applies in this implementation:
The course uses e-materials, which are linked in MyCourses.
Substitutes for Courses
Valid 01.08.2020-31.07.2022:
Kie-98.1340, LC-1340
Prerequisites
Valid 01.08.2020-31.07.2022:
The course is intended for doctoral students who have started writing their research articles and/or thesis. Therefore, participants must bring samples of their ongoing writing as this will be a part of the material used in the course.
FURTHER INFORMATION
Details on the schedule
Applies in this implementation:
See the Course Schedule on the MyCourses Homepage.
- Teacher: Pilkinton-Pihko Diane