Scientific Writing in English (AMC PhD Program)

Information about the course Scientific Writing in English for Publication.

Go to application form.

Goal:

This course on writing a scientific article will teach you to write well-structured, easily flowing scientifc texts that help get your message across clearly, through the study of theory, analysis of published texts, relevant exercises and writing assignments.

Format:

The course runs eight times a year. Each course consists of four sessions, plus written assignments that receive individual feedback from the instructor and peer reviewers (other course participants). Attendance at all four sessions and completion of all writing assignments is compulsory.

    Scheduled dates:

    • March 3, 17, 31 and April 14, 2021 (online)
    • May 20, June 3 and 17, July 1, 2021 (online)
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    Before the start of every edition of the Scientific Writing course, we will notify all the listed applicants by e-mail. You can then indicate whether you want to actually participate in that particular edition.

    Content:

    Topics covered include, but are not limited to

    1. Academic writing as a genre - how is academic English different from 'regular' English and why is that important
    2. Introductions - creating a research space; using the right tenses to get your message across
    3. Method section - how and when to use passives
    4. Discussion - structure, tense use, hedging, and writing about strengths and limitations
    5. Writing well-structured paragraphs
    6. Common errors - how to avoid them

    The course will require you to study some theory between sessions (videos and textbook sessions) and work on writing assignments (Introduction and Discussion). The sessions will consist of mini-lectures on theory, working on and discussing exercises and analyses directly relevant to your writing, and giving and receiving peer feedback of the writing assingments.

    You will also receive detailed feedback from your instructor on your written Introduction and Discussion..

    Target Audience:

    AMC PhD candidates with research experience who have finalized much of the theoretical and technical aspects of their research and have at least some results that are ready to be turned into a research article.

    Language:

    The course is given in English. All materials and assignments are in English.

    Certificate:

    Attendance at all 4 sessions is compulsory and registered. Issuance of the certificate is also based on progress in the participant's writing, as demonstrated by performance in the assignments.

    Study load:

    42 hours, which is comparable to 1.5 ECTS points.

    Number of participants:

    Maximum 15 per course.

    Costs:

    No charge for registered Amsterdam UMC PhD candidates. Employees of the AMC or AMC Medical Research BV can participate provided slots are available. All other participants are charged a fee of 500 euros.

    Instructors:

    Taalcentrum-VU

    More information:

    AMC Graduate School
    E-mail: graduateschool@amc.uva.nl
    Tel: +31 (0)20 - 566 4618