Professional Technical Writing
Online-learning.com's Professional Technical Writing was just what I needed to start my new career as a freelance technical writer. My first contract paid for the course twice over.-- Michael
Professional Technical Writing is a 12-week online technical writing course. During the course you will learn how to write technical documents such as reports and manuals, but you will also learn how to author technical documents in XML. XML is a key skill for technical writers, and technical writers who understand XML are in demand. It's like learning two skills for the price of one!
In this course, you'll learn how to use a systematic writing process. You'll learn how to write and revise technical reports and manuals (two key technical writing formats). You will also get the chance to practice your skills by completing four hands-on assignments. In the first assignment, you'll learn how to write clearly and concisely. You'll practice these techniques by writing a resume and a letter. In assignments two and three, you'll create your first technical document, develop and conduct a document usability test, and revise your document based on the test results. In these two projects, we try to simulate a typical development environment by having you work in project teams. (Students can also choose to work alone.) In the last assignment, you'll get the chance to write a formal technical report. The course takes you through the entire writing process, step-by-step!
View sample of course reading materials
Highlights
- 570 pages of course materials
- Downloadable HTML and PDF versions of materials
- 12 weeks of instructor mentoring
- Expert feedback on all assignments
- Optional instructor-led text chat sessions
- BONUS: XML Converter included
- BONUS: Trial version of XMLSpy included. Please note that as a condition of using XMLSpy for the duration of the course, we are obliged to provide your email address to Altova - the manufacturer of this fine product.
Prerequisites
- Working knowledge of English
- Familiar with browsers, email and computer file system functions
Computing Requirements
- Internet access
- Windows XP/Vista/7. Note: Students with a Mac can also participate in this course. Please contact us for details.
Class Start Dates
— February 6
— March 5
— April 2
— May 7
Price
$499US/$499CDN
Check our discounts page before you register to see if you qualify for a discount!
About The Instructor
The instructor will guide you throughout the course by providing one-to-one mentoring. During the course, the instructor will answer your questions by email, provide you with feedback on your assignments, and lead optional text chat sessions to discuss the materials and assignments.
Kitty Bucsko has been teaching business communications and computer technology courses for over 30 years including courses for the Canadian Institute of Management. She has been a member of the Ontario College of Teachers since its inception and has a passion for the Internet and telecommunications technology. She is also an active member in the Society for Technical Communication.
Student Reviews
The instructor (Kitty) responded to all emails with timeliness and precison. She was most helpful and supportive. The extra readings gave me an opportunity to learn more about a topic if desired. Course materials were fantastic. The length of the course was perfect although sometimes I felt like I needed more time but in fact, there was just enough to do what was needed. The instructor was very knowledgeable with the software and gave excellent feedback on assignments. Overall, it's a great way to learn something new, learn a new program and understand the benefits of using such a program in a business sense. -- Not specified
This was my first online learning experience and it has had a positive impact on my attitude to online learning. I am now considering what to do next. -- Robert
It was a great learning experience. Great course overall, I've learned a lot and I really enjoyed being able to do this from the office and my home, at my own pace. -- France
The course had an instructor who took the time to find out how each student was progressing. She was fair, helpful and highly professional. Keep up the good work. What I have learned in this course, I will be able to apply in the real world. You go to great lengths to ensure that students understand what is expected of them and to let them know that you are concerned about their progress. See you on another course in the near future. -- Dana
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