Grammar and Clarity in Technical Writing (CSCTS3-2022)

Synopsis

Correct grammar and language are essential for any professional who wishes to advance in their field. This module covers common errors, correct English grammar, and ways to make your written words clearer, faster, and more pleasing to read. Plain language and readability are covered. 

Upon successful completion of this module, participants are issued a digital verifiable badge.

This module is part of UBC Okanagan’s non-credit micro-credential, Critical Skills for Communication in the Technical Sector, an 8-module program that covers skills essential for employment and career advancement in the science and engineering sectors. Participants who successfully complete all eight modules will earn a UBC Okanagan Letter of Proficiency, a non-credit credential.

Course Structure, Delivery and Fees

• This module is designed to be completed in five to six hours. All work must be completed by December 20, 2022. 
• This module consists of asynchronous readings, video lectures, exercises, and assignments. Coursework is assessed as ‘Pass’ or ‘Fail’. All materials and engagement activities are delivered fully online through Canvas Catalog.
• The fee for this module is $150 and is non-refundable. Access to all instructional content required to complete the module is included and there are no additional fees for textbooks.
• Once enrolled, you may access the course through your Student Dashboard. Prior to the module start date, the course will appear with a lock symbol over the course card. 
• Please refer to the course syllabus for more information.   

Module Completion Recognition

Upon successful completion of this module, participants are issued a digital verifiable badge, which may be claimed and displayed on social media platforms (e.g., LinkedIn) and personal online e-portfolios, resumes, and CVs. This badge contains metadata that encapsulates the learning outcomes achieved.

Admission requirements

This non-credit learning opportunity has no pre-requisites nor does it require a prior or existing affiliation with UBC. The content is designed for adult learners; participants must be 18 years or older. Language of instruction is English.

This course is designed for professionals who will have typically earned a university degree or college diploma in a science or engineering discipline and are engaged in continuing professional development.

Technical Requirements

This module is delivered fully online using the Canvas learning management system.

It is expected that participants have access to a personal computer connected to the Internet with speakers, web-camera and a microphone and that the computer is installed with web browser, and word processor, spreadsheet and presentation software.

Course Materials

Course content, submission of coursework, and assessment are conducted in Canvas Catalog. Canvas Catalog software is accessed via a web browser. Links to optional and extended learning materials are also provided but are not required to complete the micro-credential.

Course notes are provided in a pdf format that can be downloaded for future use. Video content is available only through Canvas Catalog. 

All materials required for completion of the micro-credential are provided within Canvas Catalog. Participants do not have online access to the UBC Library system. 

Course Facilitator

Christa Bedwin, B.Ed., B.Sc. is a Senior Technical Editor, who has 20 years’ experience coaching scientific and engineering writers, and editing for industry, government, academia, and educational and trade publishers, with specialties in engineering and the environment. She has taught technical writing to professional engineers and scientists in Canada and internationally; has published three textbooks about writing for scientific reporting consultants; and among other projects has contributed chapters to Editors Canada’s two most recent publications, Editing Canadian English and its companion volume, Editorial Niches.

Additional Information

This credential is offered as part of the Career and Personal Development program administered by the Department of Earth, Environmental and Geographic Sciences at UBC Okanagan. Queries about the credential, or the EEGS Department CPD program more generally, should be submitted to: eegs.cpd@ubc.ca. The CPD Program coordinator is Ms. Marni Turek.

Last updated: August 24, 2022. MT LM.