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Persuasive Writing

WRITCOM X 402

Learn to use tools of persuasion in writing situations of all kinds

What you can learn.

Understand the types of arguments writers use to persuade readers to agree with them
Get insight into the psychology of decision making so you can write with impact in mind
Complete exercises that help you incorporate techniques of persuasion into your writing
Develop strategies to identify the most persuasive tools in your argument toolbelt

About this course:

Persuasive writing is all around us: in editorials, in advertising, social media and even in the emails we write to friends and coworkers. Persuasive messages can take the form of logical arguments, emotionally charged rhetoric or short narratives (e.g., a TV ad). Designed for writers of all experience levels, this course introduces you to major persuasion theories from social and media psychology and to some ideas from cognitive neuroscience relevant to persuasion in a manner that is both accessible and fun. You complete exercises that help you practice persuasive writing, participate in discussions and get feedback from peers. By the end of the course, you know how to choose the best route to persuasion, considering your audiences’ motivation and readiness to change and how to format and craft a message to make it more persuasive.

Winter 2025 Schedule

January 8 - March 23

This section has no set meeting times.

Available

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Instructor: Carlos Allende

400989

Fee:

$745.00

Online

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Notes

This online course is conducted through Canvas, a secure website that allows students to log in to access lectures, discussions, and other course materials on demand. There are no required live class meetings. Each course is structured with weekly assignments and deadlines. Lectures and coursework are accessible throughout the week. Workshops are conducted in writing via discussion boards with your instructor and classmates.

Enrollment limited to 15 students; early enrollment advised. Visitors not permitted. Internet access required.

Refund Deadline

No refunds after January 22, 2025

Course Requirements

Internet access required to retrieve course materials.

(Optional) Persuasion : Theory and Research by O'Keefe, Daniel J.

ISBN 9781452276670

(Optional) A Rulebook for Arguments by Weston, Anthony

ISBN 9781624666544

(Optional) Influence, New and Expanded : The Psychology of Persuasion by Cialdini, Robert B.

ISBN 9780062937650