The primary aim of the course is to enable the student to write accurately and comprehensively about complicated topics using international academic writing standards. Language is surprisingly dynamic and especially in the last decennia our way of communication has been influenced by rapid developments of new communication channels. WhatsApp, Discord, WeChat, Twitter/X, Snapchat, Facebook, and a growing list of other applications are affecting the way we communicate with each other, generally in a much more informal way than in the past. This inevitably clashes with more traditional, "academic" styles that are still required for publications, grant writing, and professional communication on important matters. The course tries to point out these areas of "friction". A secondary aim of the course, in response to the requests of students, is the discussion of effective techniques to plan, study, and prepare for exams and other important events. The lectures will present lots of links to valuable information online, often with convenient QR codes presented. This course will hopefully help the students coming from all over the world to make a good start with their new life in Pavia at University studying an incredible course in medicine.
Prerequisiti
Secondary school level English.
Metodi didattici
Lectures with open discussions, Mentimeter and Poll Everywhere interactive slides, and small writing exercises.
Verifica Apprendimento
No (marked) final examination. Instead, an essay is written by each student. These essays will be discussed in the final lecture to provide constructive suggestions and comments on common errors and argumentation. After all this...the students are able to develop their own personalised way to efficiently tackle the demanding next six year in the most efficient and enjoyable way.
Testi
References given to books, articles and web-based resources such as: - Students Must Write: A Guide to Better Writing in Coursework and Examinations (Routledge Study Guides) by Robert Barrass. - Scientists Must Write: A Guide to Better Writing for Scientists, Engineers and Students (Routledge Study Guides) by Robert Barrass - English for Science: Student's Book by Fran Zimmerman - Many many QR-coded references to YouTube videos and other sources.
Contenuti
1) Introduction - the importance of good writing and communication skills; 2) Understanding rules and requirements (for exams, written assessments, grants and competitions; 3) Understanding your target audience 4) Planning you busy life 5) Writing styles, formats and formalities (and changes); 6) Plagiarism and anti-plagiarism software, essential to stay out of prison 😅; 7) Referencing and reference managers (to avoid plagiarism); 8) AI tools, how to use this emerging power to your advantage; 9) You input, your essay, your advice to others.