About this course

In today’s globalising world, language and the ability to communicate effectively are two of the most critical skills you must have in order to succeed. Writing and composition are vital to communicating your ideas clearly, especially if you have to present yourself in important exams such as the TOEFL or IELTS or in admission essays for business schools. This introductory writing course will help you develop and express your ideas effectively for a variety of purposes, audiences and occasions.

During the course, you will complete several major written projects, each with a reflection. For each project, you can decide on the level of technology you wish to use.

If you wish to earn university credits for the course, which will count as credits for ASU’s First-Year Composition course, we will ask you to complete a portfolio which addresses what you have learned in the course and to provide evidence that you have acquired the skills and knowledge taught during the course.

What you'll learn

  • Rhetorical Knowledge: how to craft your writing to meet the needs of specific audiences for specific purposes.
  • Critical Thinking: how to make decisions about what to include and not include in your writing.
  • Writing Processes: how to use invention, research, drafting, revising and editing in your writing.
  • Knowledge of Conventions: how to use various formats and make stylistic choices, including genre conventions.
  • Digital Technology: how to use diverse technologies to write more effectively and efficiently.
  • Habits of Mind: how to benefit from an enquiring mind openness, engagement, creativity, persistence, responsibility, flexibility and reflection.

Starting date: 14 March 2016

Length: 8 weeks

Language: English

Instructor: Duane Roen

Institution: Arizona State University

GET DETAILS/SIGN UP