Effective Writing in Organisations
Course Overview:
This two-day course introduces advanced techniques for writing arguments and explanations that are well-reasoned, well-supported, psychologically-compelling and strategically-aligned with an organisation’s mission and priorities. The course uses argument mapping, deductive reasoning and inductive reasoning as tools for planning to write in the argument structure.
Four main features of this approach are brevity, clarity, readability and persuasiveness. These planning techniques encourage brevity, not by ‘dumbing down’ but by focusing in on what is logically-necessary and strategically-important. They achieve clarity by providing a structure that helps readers to understand the writer’s intent. Above all, they enhance persuasiveness by combining logical and psychological approaches to persuasive communication. Readability is also improved by applying some cognitive research findings on how readers read.
Who Should Attend:
This course is designed for the suitability of Public Sector levels APS5 - EL2, or equivalent.
Course Outline:
| DAY ONE | |
| Planning: Argument Mapping | |
| Deductive Reasoning: Deep Analysis of Logical Structure | |
| Inductive Reasoning: Using Evidence Effectively | |
| Strategic Alignment with Mission, Values & Priorities |
| DAY TWO |
| Dissecting Counterarguments |
| Structuring a Document for Clarity |
| Writing for Readability |
| Beyond Reasoning: Some Rhetorical Techniques for Writers |
Location:
Canberra - various locations
In-house:
All states and neighbouring countries, contact the Professional Education Course Unit for more information. Recommended for groups of 10 or more.
What you will receive:
- Comprehensive set of course notes
- UNSW Canberra certificate of attendance
- Morning tea, lunch and afternoon tea
DR JAMES HANSON
Dr James Hanson teaches strategic management and organisational leadership at UNSW Canberra. His research focuses on the use of structured analytical techniques to develop the decision making and strategic communication skills of people who work in large organisations. In 2009, James, Vice Admiral (retired) David Shackleton and Emeritus Professor Peter Hall shared a national teaching award for their innovative work in developing students' strategic thinking skills. James has an MBA in strategy and an MA in economics from Yale University, as well as an EdD in adult learning and cognition from the University of Sydney. The Effective Writing course combines practical techniques and research insights from across James's broad academic background. He has been delivering this very popular course to members of the Australian Defence and Intelligence communities, for over a decade.
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