Program Overview

Program Overview

The Plain Language Principles course is designed to introduce students to the basics of preparing materials that are clear and understandable. This course will cover the writing standards and practices outlined within the plain language field, allowing students to develop a sensitivity to the issues of literacy and work toward empowering people who may have been marginalized or sidelined by complex language.

Course Details

• Location: Online
• Format: Self-paced within deadlines set by instructor
• Duration: 3 weeks
• Tuition: $375
• Can be applied to:
  • Plain Language Certificate
  • Editing Certificate

Course Objectives

After completing this course, students will be able to:

• Explain how and why written communication can break down
• Define and describe the importance of plain language
• Identify problematic words and phrases, and assess documents for plain language effectiveness
• Develop a process for plain language writing and editing on the job
• Recognize and use design elements that can contribute to plain language, including effective headings and subheadings, point form and lists
• Define the purpose of a document and its audience
• Organize information clearly for readers
• Write clear, direct and short sentences and paragraphs, eliminating unnecessary words and phrases
• Use active verbs and words with clear meaning

Course Structure

• Readings
• Assignments
• Online discussions Students are expected to spend 6-10 hours per week on coursework.

Evaluation

Students will be evaluated on:

• Assignments
• Participation in discussions

Learning Materials

No textbook is required, as all course materials will be provided online. However, the following book is recommended for further reading:

• Cutts, Martin. Oxford Guide to Plain English (5th Edition). Oxford University Press, 2020.

Technical Requirements

For online courses, students will need a computer with audio and microphone that is connected to the internet. Canvas is the online system that will be used for the course.

English Language Requirements

To succeed in this course, students will need an advanced level of written and spoken English. The recommended minimum English language proficiency is:

• Overall band score minimum 6.5
• No band below 6.0
• Writing band score minimum 8.0 as measured by the International English Language Testing System (IELTS).