I tend to
write formal rather than informal and so when one reads it, it does not read
with a conversational tone. This is what
is expected in child welfare with the numerous court reports that must be
written in a professional manner.
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I don’t
usually free write, rather I edit as I type; however the exercises we have done
this semester have shown me how helpful free writing can be and I have used the
technique a few times. I enjoy free
writing, it is kind of fun and allows my mind to just go and not worry about syntax
or grammar or spelling and that frees my mind to just write the words as they
come. This is not how I would turn a
paper in but it does provide a space to develop my thoughts.
In regards to sharing my writing with those of a different culture, I am
more cautious with my words to make sure it is written in a way that is clear
and does not contain subtle meanings. I
acknowledge that I do not know everything about other cultures and I do not
wish to offend anyone so I am careful to say what I mean and mean what I say.
In reading Patterns of Thinking pdf it is interesting how different
cultures organize and write in different ways.
With that information, even my careful, diligent writing can be taken as
offensive, simplistic, blunt, rude, and aggressive. I am not sure how to avoid this
interpretation of my words because if I attempt to write the way another
culture may prefer then I offend my own.
It is a quandary and may not be preventable. I think the best I can do at this point is to
be aware of the differences and write honestly.
Deidra, I think that it is important that you know how to write formally die to the cat that we as social workers are going to have to write like that in the field (as you already do). We don't want to sound like we are unsophisticated and unprofessional. Just like you, I don't usually free write either because I do not find it enjoyable as I would rather do something else with my time. In the context of school, free I too have found that the free writing activities we have done have been helpful. It is great that you know your patterns of thinking as well as writing not only for professional use but also personal reflection as well. Great post!
ReplyDeleteThanks for the feedback Dani. Only a few weeks to go before break....yeah!
ReplyDeleteDeidra, continue to write honestly as you do it so well and it is the way you write. The saying "we can't please everyone" comes to mind when you suggest changing the way you write. I think as long as you write what you believe it can't go wrong.
ReplyDeleteSometimes I think I should bring my reports to you to read and make the grammatical and spelling corrections because you do it so well, but then I remember you are so busy and ask someone else. Don't change anything.