Research and Writing Workshop

Fall 2019
Wed 2:00 PM - 4:00 PM
Sept. 18; Sept. 25; Oct. 2; Oct. 9; Oct. 23; Oct. 30

This workshop will teach research and writing skills to enable students in any program(MTS/MDiv/DPT/MA/PhD/Cert) to engage successfully with their academic work. Focusing on the areas of content, argumentation, and written presentation, this workshop will introduce tools for proper research, clear and logical argumentation, proficiency with language, and oral presentations. A major component of this workshop will be providing students with the technological expertise to successfully carry out online research in a 21st century context. The cost is $180 per student, of which MDC pays $80.
N.B.: This is not a credit course, neither is it a remedial course. It is workshop designed for any student, in any program, who wishes to improve their skills in researching, writing, and presenting. It may appeal to:

  • those who would simply like to refresh and extend their academic skills,
  • those who have not worked in an academic context for some years,
  • those whose undergraduate degree was in a program such as Mathematics or Architecture that does not usually require essay writing skills,
  • those who are not familiar with the Canadian culture and education system,
  • those who would like to be more informed about internet and computer based, resources, or
  • those who want to learn more about the academic expectations at MDC.

Knowing…

  • To understand how to use modern technologies effectively for research andwriting, including online journals and databases, online books, bibliographicsoftware, biblical language software, Avenue to Learn, and other vital resources.
  • To understand the characteristics of academic writing.
  • To understand the fundamental elements of clear argumentation.
  • To understand best practices in quotation and documentation of resources.
  • To know the academic expectations of MDC.
  • To understand the criteria for the types of assignments at MDC (e.g., book reviews, essays, research papers).
  • To become aware of resources that can be useful for continuing improvement in research and writing skills.

Being…

  • To develop increased confidence in one’s ability to research and write.
  • To grow by voicing academic concerns and difficulties and exploring strategies for dealing with these.
  • To understand the potential for academic work to be a spiritual endeavor.
  • To cultivate a community of trust by freely sharing challenges and offering positive feedback and resources to others to help alleviate these concerns.

Doing…

  • To develop organizational skills in researching and writing.
  • To gain facility in using the English language, including its grammar and syntax.
  • To apply to skills learned in researching and writing in credit courses.
  • To think more critically, express oneself more clearly, and research more effectively.