How ENGL393 Works

I.  Modules

This Blended Learning version of ENGL393 is divided into five learning modules, each with its own set of intended learning outcomes:

• Module 1: Fundamentals of Audience-Based Writing
• Module 2: Technical Instructions for Non-Specialists
• Module 3: Writing Proposals: Establishing Problems & Identifying Solutions
• Module 4: Employment/Application Materials
• Module 5: Final Project: Creating Professional-Level Technical Documents

Modules include readings and other resources, as well as both synchronous and asynchronous online and in-class exercises. Module 1, 2, 3 and 5 end with one of the course's four (4) major assignments

• Your participation in all exercises will be accounted for in your final grade.

In addition to these five primary learning modules, you will also find modules for

• Peer Review 
• Primary Research
• Secondary Research
• Reflective Writing.

These modules contain resources that we will use throughout the semester while developing the major assignments.

II.  Learning Process

Each module facilitates an organized approach to the learning process.

• In the first phase, you are expected to review the content provided and complete a quiz.
• In the Second phase, you will work collaboratively to begin developing the skills we are working on in each module.
• Finally, you will apply the foundational experiences in the first and second phases to developing the major writing assignment at the end of each module.

III.  Readings/Course Materials

For each module, a number of readings, videos and other resources will be provided. There is no required textbook for the course. All materials will either be found on this site or will be hyperlinked somewhere else. Examples of student work from past semesters will also be provided.

IV. Course Community

In this Blended Learning version of ENGL393, there will be many opportunities to interact both directly and indirectly with the Instructor and your fellow students. Both synchronous and asynchronous online and in-class exercises and discussions will allow you to share your perspective with the class, and to hear the perspectives of others. Peer review will allow you to give and receive important feedback as you craft your major assignments. Conferences will provide you opportunities for one-on-one interaction with the Instructor to ensure you are effectively progressing towards the final project. As in every course, you are expected to treat others with courtesy and respect.

V.  Draft Process/Peer Review

For most major assignments, the process for final submission will include:

1. submitting a first draft (a first draft is nonetheless a complete draft meeting the length requirements of the assignment)
2. completing one round of in-class peer review of another student's work,
3. submitting a second draft (also complete) based on the feedback received during in-class peer review,
4. completing one round of online peer review of another student's work, and 
5. submitting a third and FINAL draft of the document.

• Each of the steps leading to the final submission are included in the "Draft Submission/Online Work" component mentioned under Grades on the course Policies page.
  

VI.  Exercises

For each module, there will be at least one in-class and/or online exercise that you will normally complete within an assigned small group. These exercises are meant to complement the readings and other materials provided so that you may  fully understand the learning outcomes we are trying to achieve before beginning each learning module's major assignment.

VII.  Conferences

There will be two opportunities for in-person conferences, during which I will speak with each of you to discuss your progress in the course. As mentioned under course Policies under Attendance, not making your conference will count as an unexcused absence.

VIII. Time Commitment

Most students find their PWP courses to be more time consuming than they originally envisioned, regardless of the format of the class. In this Blended Learning version of the course, you may find your workload even more demanding because you will be completing so much of it on your own outside of class. As mentioned, while Blended Learning formats give you more flexibility with how you make your way through the content, you have more responsibility to ensure you complete all necessary components.

IX. Assessment
In addition to the grades you receive on your major assignments, there will be numerous other opportunities for assessment throughout the semester. This will include the feedback you receive from your peers, UTA, and me during the drafting process of each major assignment. Moreover, you will be asked to assess your own participation, and the participation of your classmates, following small group exercises and peer-review sessions