Learning creative writing on line is an excellent idea. So much of the online medium is affected by our ability to write well. Through the courses at the CAE (Centre for Adult Education) people can learn a variety of writing skills- online.
The sample site demonstrates some particular uses of the purpose built online environment that support a collaborative learning environment.
Collaborative working environment
The emphasis in the creative writing courses is on writing, reading and participating in a collaborative working environment to accept and give critiques of one another’s work.
‘Workshopping’ written pieces is a good way of getting feedback from an audience.
It can be challenging, yet the response has been extraordinary with many people lining up for more and more courses. Retention rates in this distance learning course have been surprisingly high. CAE's innovative courses make the most of the online environment by offering frequent personal contact.
Varied communication forms
Discussion forums, instant messaging, email, chat, document sharing are used by students and teachers to create a dynamic online community of writers with an emphasis on student-centered learning. The teachers are experienced and published writers themselves.
Support for individual learner development
Writing can be an intensely personal experience and being online can offer unique ‘safety’ mechanisms – no one has to see your red face as you read your first effort out loud. People have time to refine critiques and frame responses. Students hone their writing skills no only in the set piece exercises but also in the responses to others and critical analysis of their own and others works. And for those who because of shift work, babies or personal preference prefer to work at night or early morning, online provides that flexibility.
Sample site
The sample site also demonstrates a small portion of the notes and additional references that support the course. Please note that this is a sample site only so all functionality is not activated.
