Introduction to Academic Writing

Go to Course: https://www.coursera.org/learn/introduction-to-academic-writing

Introduction

### Course Review: Introduction to Academic Writing on Coursera In today's knowledge-driven economy, the ability to write and communicate effectively is more critical than ever. Whether you're an aspiring researcher, a student, or a professional looking to improve your writing skills, the *Introduction to Academic Writing* course on Coursera offers a comprehensive overview of the essential skills required to excel in academic communication. #### Overview of the Course The *Introduction to Academic Writing* course aims to provide learners with a solid foundation in the pivotal skills of reading and writing. By the completion of this course, participants will not only refine their writing abilities but also enhance their capacity to conduct thorough research that is both critical and robust. The course emphasizes the significance of conveying research questions and findings clearly and effectively, a crucial skill in today’s interconnected academic and professional landscapes. #### Course Structure and Syllabus The syllabus is divided into four detailed modules, each targeting different aspects of academic writing: 1. **Introduction to Academic Reading and Writing**: This introductory module sets the stage by distinguishing academic writing from other genres. Students are guided through the anatomy of an academic paper, focusing on constructing arguments grounded in evidence. The use of annotated examples enables learners to grasp the process of creating evidence-based arguments easily. 2. **Literature Review and Referencing**: This module delves into the essential processes of literature review and citation, highlighting their importance in academic writing. Participants will learn to synthesize insights from various texts, presenting them coherently. The module also addresses the technical requirements of referencing and its role in establishing the credibility of one’s work. 3. **Writing Policy Briefs and Writing for Popular Media**: Expanding on academic writing, this module introduces learners to writing for broader audiences. It covers the essentials of policy briefs, op-eds, and blogs, encouraging participants to adapt their arguments to suit diverse readerships. The guidelines offered in this module are crucial for those who aim to extend their influence beyond academic circles. 4. **Dissertation Writing**: In the final module, students will focus on the intricacies of dissertation writing. Building on previously acquired skills, learners will explore the research question formulation process and the stages involved in dissertation development. Additionally, this module offers insights into writing guidelines necessary for publication in peer-reviewed journals, preparing students for future academic endeavors. #### Strengths of the Course - **Structured Learning Path**: The course is methodically designed, progressing from foundational concepts to more complex writing tasks, ensuring that learners develop a comprehensive skill set. - **Practical Instruction**: Each module provides actionable insights and practical exercises, enabling students to apply their learning in real-world contexts. - **Diverse Writing Genres**: The exploration of various writing genres broadens students' understanding and prepares them for different writing situations, be it for academia or public discourse. - **Expert Contributions**: The course is crafted by seasoned educators and researchers, ensuring learners receive guidance from those with extensive experience in the field. #### Why You Should Enroll If you’re serious about enhancing your academic writing skills, this course is a valuable investment. With its robust curriculum, practical approach, and expert-led instruction, students will emerge better equipped to express complex ideas clearly and effectively. Whether you're preparing to write your first academic paper or looking to refine your existing skills for future research, the *Introduction to Academic Writing* course on Coursera will provide you with the tools you need to succeed. In conclusion, if you aspire to navigate the academic landscape with confidence and precision, look no further than this course. Enroll today and take the first step towards mastering the art of academic writing!

Syllabus

Introduction to Academic Reading and Writing

This module introduces you to the genre of academic writing and its distinction from other writing genres by focusing on the structure of an academic paper. You will learn how to develop your arguments based on claims and evidence. Through a detailed annotation of a sample academic paper, you will learn the basic building blocks of making an evidence-based argument.

Literature review and referencing are two fundamental aspects of research writing. In this module, you will learn how literature review can help you assimilate insights from multiple texts into clear insights. You will discover that referencing is a technical requirement in academic writing and a crucial way to show the credibility of the evidence. This module focuses on the logic and place of literature review and citation in an academic text.

This module introduces you to a different writing genre, which will enable you to communicate with a wider audience. You will learn about writing policy briefs and writing for popular media in the form of op-eds and blogs. You will gain insights into the useful guidelines for formulating arguments and thinking about diverse audiences.

In this module, you will learn about the process of writing a dissertation. You will build upon the skills learned in the earlier modules and focus on the stages of dissertation development. You will learn how to arrive at a research question. This module discusses some writing guidelines for publication in peer-reviewed academic journals.