Writing material for educational courses

Principle 9Language

Glenn MartinMarch 2017

Principle 9 The language used and the tone of the

writing should reflect a respectful attitude towards students and appropriate assumptions about them.

Assumptions about students

The most constructive assumptions to make about students are that: (a) they are reasonably intelligent, (b) they are interested in the subject matter, but (c) they lack knowledge of the subject; hence, that is why they are enrolled in the course.

Tone and expressionThe tone and expression of the writer should be direct, personable and accessible, not aloof. But it should also avoid slang, colloquialisms and loose language, as is fitting for a tertiary education environment.

Voice Keep in mind that the text

on the web page is the voice of the teacher for the student.

Standard of writing Writing should be of a

good standard – plain, clear, direct English employing correct grammar, punctuation and spelling.

The standard of writing should be consistent across all the weeks of the course.

Students as unique individuals The language should convey the message

that each student is a unique individual, incorporating opportunities for recognition of and attention to individual abilities and experience.

Inviting a conversation The tone used should invite participation in

conversation around the ideas in the course, and this should be effected in opportunities to raise questions, participate in discussion and express views.