Writing and Structure

Abstract

Language is a fundamental element of any community, and academia is no exception. The styles of language that are used and valued reflect the principles and purposes of research and higher education. There is an established traditional ‘voice’ in academic writing, which aims to emphasise objectivity and accuracy, but at the expense of expressiveness and personal style. (I am writing this precis in this ‘voice’!) This chapter discusses how alternative and unusual styles of writing about research can be used to express different aspects of the research process, contextualise results and engage non-traditional demographics with research. The current formal academic writing style, typically utilising third-person and passive voice constructions, is intended to express accurate information objectively. Alternatives to the highly formal and technical style can be very effective and broaden the impact of the work. Literary techniques (narrative, fictionalisation, rhyme and meter) can be used to engage diverse audiences with research or express dimensions of research that may otherwise be lost, such as emotionality. This chapter discusses the why and how of creativity in academic writing.

Citation

Neenan, E.E. (2022), "Writing and Structure", Gibson, A.G. (Ed.) The Affective Researcher (Great Debates in Higher Education), Emerald Publishing Limited, Leeds, pp. 35-62. https://doi.org/10.1108/978-1-80262-333-820221002