Simon Fraser University
Engaging the World

Course Outlines

Spring 2018 - EDUC 832 G001

The Art and Discipline of Writing and Teaching Writing (5)

Class Number: 10196

Delivery Method: In Person

Overview

  • Course Times + Location:

    Jan 3 – Apr 10, 2018: Tue, 4:30–9:20 p.m.
    Burnaby

Description

CALENDAR DESCRIPTION:

Through narrative inquiry and traditional study, students develop a deep understanding of, appreciation for and ability to access composition as an artistic experience and a teachable craft.

COURSE DETAILS:

This course is designed for ALL students in the university. (not limited to students in the Arts Education Program).  It is of special interest to:

  • students who want to complete their theses or dissertations
  • art education students
  • students studying language arts
  • practicing teachers wanting to improve their teaching of composition
  • any one wanting to improve their writing skills, graduate or undergraduate level. (undergrad students sometimes take as directed study) The primary goal of this program is to give you skills and attitudes that will ensure that your experience as a university student is pleasurable and successful as regards your ability to think clearly and produce quality writing.
The course consists of four integrated sections. 
  • Personal and Professional Writing
  • Integration between personal and scholarly writing. Discovering a subject that is worthy and personally relevant
  • Creativity and personal transformation.
  • Teaching and Learning the art and craft of composition. (this could include n invitation to the professor’s farm to experience animal assisted learning.  It is not compulsory and will not be graded; it is an invitation only for interested students).

COURSE-LEVEL EDUCATIONAL GOALS:

OBJECTIVES: Students will be able to the following, and can choose to focus on the two that are of most importance to them:

  1. WRITING: Improve personal and professional writing.
  2. MA THESIS or PH.D. DISSERTATION WRITING or Academic Writing: Develop specific skill in writing a project or thesis proposal OR writing a draft of article for a journal in your area of interest.
  3. EXPERIENCE: Examine and engage in creative process and transformative learning.
  4. TEACHING AND LEARNING:  Study and practice education practice around composition learning and teaching.  Though students will experience all units as a method of skill and knowledge and attitude acquisition, they will be asked to complete the final projects of two units, based on individual need and interest.

Grading

  • Participation and Professionalism 30%
  • (2) Major Assignments 35% each 70%

REQUIREMENTS:

EXPECTATIONS: Students will be expected to: complete 2 of the 4:

  1. Submit a portfolio of writing demonstrating evidence of meaningful revision demonstrating knowledge of four aspects of writing process.
  2. Write a revised research proposal or article or essay.
  3. Present evidence of personal transformation through an experience with the arts - may include other forms of art.  Painting.  Dance. Creative Writing. May be digital.  May include digi-stories, web sites, U tube presentations, etc.  Must include a written reflection.
  4. Examine classroom practices and/or curriculum models related to the teaching of composition and produce an original piece of work demonstrating critical analysis or synthesis of classroom practice in a personally meaningful way.

Graduate Studies Notes:

Important dates and deadlines for graduate students are found here: http://www.sfu.ca/dean-gradstudies/current/important_dates/guidelines.html. The deadline to drop a course with a 100% refund is the end of week 2. The deadline to drop with no notation on your transcript is the end of week 3.

Registrar Notes:

SFU’s Academic Integrity web site http://students.sfu.ca/academicintegrity.html is filled with information on what is meant by academic dishonesty, where you can find resources to help with your studies and the consequences of cheating.  Check out the site for more information and videos that help explain the issues in plain English.

Each student is responsible for his or her conduct as it affects the University community.  Academic dishonesty, in whatever form, is ultimately destructive of the values of the University. Furthermore, it is unfair and discouraging to the majority of students who pursue their studies honestly. Scholarly integrity is required of all members of the University. http://www.sfu.ca/policies/gazette/student/s10-01.html

ACADEMIC INTEGRITY: YOUR WORK, YOUR SUCCESS