Volunteer Writers

As I near the end of my diploma studies (Sorry, I forgot to mention I completed the Certificate IV at the end of 2008) I'm finding myself feeling less satisfied with my studies. It's not that I'm not still learning; it's because I'm feeling myself needing to take flight into the world of writing and learn the things I can't learn in a classroom. 

To help build my writing resume I joined CSL (Centre for Sustainability Leadership) as a volunteer writer. I transcribe interviews from the 2009 Copenhagen Climate Change Summit and create short (5-7 mins) inspirational scripts for their online teaching course.  I'm enjoying the challenge and the producer is not only happy with my work, she's agreed to be a referee on my writing CV. 

CSL - Centre for Sustainability Leadership

I've since suggested to the course co-ordinator at GippsTAFE that a non-fiction script writing course might be beneficial and was pleased that her response was that it was definitely a consideration.  I only hope it's available before I finish the diploma.

Online Study

I have found studying online convenient but challenging. Applying myself and completing what is required of me isn’t a problem; it’s leaving the study to do the housework that requires self-discipline.

Online study gives new meaning to effective communication for both teacher and student. The teacher has to ensure that their words are clear and not open to misinterpretation and the student must take the time to read things thoroughly, often more than once to ensure they fully understand what is required. If the student doesn’t understand they can always ask questions and are encouraged to do so. The problem is when the student believes they have understood the instructions only to learn they have misinterpreted on a grand scale.

Online study is a learning curve for both teacher and student. As long as both accept and embrace this, online study can only be improved.

Since commencing the Certificate IV in Professional Writing and Editing, I have felt like a sponge soaking up more and more knowledge everyday. I feel like a child in a candy shop not knowing which shelf to start looking at first. The big test will be my results, when I discover if I did fully understand all I've been taught and used this knowledge correctly.