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To be a true educator one must make learning a life-long pursuit. That is how we educators can improve our teaching as well as improve our knowledge base, which is especially important in today's technological world. One easy, fun way to improve one's writing is through Writer's Village University (http://www.writersvillage.com/preview/me... ) Just recently I became involved in Fiction 99-a free writing course offered by 'the Village' in effort to interest people in their writing program. I'm enjoying it so much thatI thought I should share it with other teachers, parents, and even students who may want to take an online writing course.

What is Writer's Village University?

Writer's Village University, also affectionately known as 'the Village,' is a full-support online service which offers non-credit courses and seminars for a $59 full year membership. Courses in Fiction, Non-fiction, Poetry, and Literature are designed to give a friendly, non-threatening opportunity to improve one's writing. Members are instructed to use tact and specifics when responding to writing. Basically, Writer's Village University is a gathering place for aspiring writers as well as those individuals who simply want to develop their creative expression.

What is Fiction 99?

Fiction 99 is a free, workshop course designed to introduce beginning writers as well as advanced writers to Writer's Village University. This is the one course that does not require the $59 membership. It functions as an opportunity to experience 'the Village' as it improves fiction writing skills by teaching/reteaching the basic terminology of fiction writing. The course's aim can be summed up as providing a supportive, non-threatening medium to learn how to write, to meet and develop friendships with writers from around the world, and to write without fear. This seven-week course consists of an orientation and six subsequent lessons each assigned on Sunday and due the following Sunday. One's study group (a group of about 15 to 25 students) and mentors give constructive criticism helping one improve his/her writing.

Personal Experience with 'the Village' My personal experience with Writer's Village University and Fiction 99 has allowed me to meet individuals from Washington D.C., Texas, New York, Oklahoma, Ireland, and Australia (so far) and I've been able to receive feedback on my writing. Posting my writing for everyone to see allowed me to feel the same apprehension students feel when required to read personal writing aloud. Writing is part of the soul. The words people put to paper are important to them. This course allows individuals to realize that everyone has the same vulnerabilities when it comes to writing. Teachers especially need to remember that students are merely human; their fear is real.

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