English 301 is an online course offered at UBC taught by Dr. Erika Paterson designed to introduce students to the elements of writing that are specific to professional, business and technical contexts. Students will first learn the principles of technical writing like style, format and knowing one’s audience. Then, students will progress to the practice and refinement of these techniques by producing various documents commonly used in such settings like abstracts, reports, e-mails and resumes. A peer-review system between students of their assignments will serve to facilitate discussion about concepts learned in class while also allowing for them to practice working collaboratively.
Since the use of sites such as Facebook or LinkedIn are crucial to building one’s career nowadays the course will introduce students to social networking strategies and to creating an online presence. Thus, students are expected to complete three main assignments: a final formal report, a LinkedIn profile accompanied by a job application package and finally a WebFolio.
Today, both people and companies practically live on the internet. Often one’s Facebook profile precedes one’s reputation while many first interactions are increasingly made through text rather than in person. Fluency in technical writing, as well as the proficiency at navigating and maintaining social networks are becoming truly necessary for job-getting and job-keeping. I am very excited for this course because I plan not only on learning and practicing the art of technical writing but also on crafting an online resume that I will actually employ in kindling my own career.