How's your academic writing???

We covered reading last week, but how's your writing??

 

Many students with disabilities have to develop strategies to manage the impact of their disability on writing tasks. Students who experience pain or fatigue when writing, schedule frequent rest breaks, and may work in a variety of positions, such as lying down with a laptop, standing at a lectern and sitting at a desk. It is important to ensure that your working environment is ergonomically designed and that you are aware of good working postures, especially when working at a computer for long periods.

 

Many students find simple strategies can minimise pain and fatigue associated with long writing stints. These include:

• Frequent rest breaks.
• Ergonomic work station. See here for tips: http://www.unisa.edu.au/ohsw/procedures/workstationarrangement.asp 
• Get started early. Having short days writing is better than a few days of cramming.
• Learn to use keyboard shortcuts.
• Be mindful of your body. Stop and rest if you are experiencing additional pain or fatigue.
• Work at times of the day that suit you. No point starting at 7.00am if you can't think.
• Make sure your keyboard and mouse suit your needs.
• Use writing resources to improve your academic writing skills. For example the academic writing online tutorial: http://resource.unisa.edu.au/course/view.php?id=1335

If you need help to manage the impact of your disability on writing speak with a Disability Adviser: http://www.unisa.edu.au/disabilityservices/contact/appointment.asp