Writing for Science and Engineering (ELS) OpenCourseWare: MIT's Free Undergraduate Technical Writing Class

Published Feb 09, 2009

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Advanced non-native speakers of English can hone their technical writing skills with this free online OpenCourseWare from MIT. 'Advanced Workshop in Writing for Science and Engineering (ELS)' is an undergraduate-level course that is recommended for students who are working towards their Bachelor of Science degree in any technical discipline.

Advanced Workshop in Writing for Science and Engineering (ELS): Course Specifics

Degree Level Free Audio Video Downloads
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Lectures/Notes Study Materials Tests/Quizzes
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Advanced Workshop in Writing for Science and Engineering (ELS): Course Description

From an engineering student's thesis to a researcher's journal article, strong technical writing skills are important throughout a scientist's or engineer's career. MIT's 'Advanced Workshop in Writing for Science and Engineering (ELS)' addresses the unique challenges faced by non-native speakers of English as they master the nuances of technical writing. Students practice writing a variety of technical documents, including memos, job applications, conference papers, and research or thesis documents. Recommended for advanced students, the course briefly covers basic issues of grammar and punctuation, focusing primarily on issues of clarity and style. Other key skills covered in the course include strategies for the writing process, writing to a broad audience, professionalism and proper citation. This writing course was originally taught on the MIT campus in conjunction with the English Language Studies program by Professor Jane Dunphy.

A recommended reading list, writing assignments and writing guidelines are offered on the course website, in addition to a collection of relevant technical writing links. If you're interested in taking this free online course, visit the advanced ESL technical writing course page.

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