The course was intellectually challenging and stimulating. "Less is more" as an STE principle is something that I quite like :). For a beginner, there is quite a lot of material to process, and study in a short time. On the plus side, Shumin presented the material intelligibly and gave sufficient number of examples during her lectures. Her presentations were very well-prepared, and I enjoyed her classes. 🙂
TCLoc Master's Student Technical Communication and Localization
"No phrasal verbs" is my favorite rule. Forming phrasal verbs in the English language remains as one of my biggest challenges in English grammar. STE Rule 9.3 makes it easier for me to fully understand technical English sentences.
TCLoc Master's Student Technical Communication and Localization
I find that STE rule 2.1 extremely useful in technical documentation to avoid ambiguity. Rule 3.6 is one of my favorites because you need to master well syntax and language to always avoid passive voice. It was a good excercise, thanks Shumin for this interesting and challenging topic!
Master's student, TCLoc for Technical Communication & Localisation University of Strasbourg
Rule 3.6 Use only the active voice in procedural writing is my favourite STE rule. Use the active voice as much as possible in descriptive writing. In my opinion, this rule would avoid a lot of translated texts misunderstandings. Thank you for the course and being flexible. You accepted moving the course to September to give us the opportunity to complete the TCTrainNet unit.
TCLoc Master's Programme University of Strasbourg
The presentation on rules clarified a lot of things of which I was unaware. I have a much better understanding of how to format lists with colons, when to use obey vs. comply, and the differences between notes, cautions, and warnings. Moving forward, I will be able to utilize the ASD-STE rules more effectively to write better documents.
I appreciated the exercises completed in this workshop because they helped me immediately practice and enforce the ASD-STE rules. I like the fact that they were timed. Writing under time-constraints forced me to think quickly and fully concentrate on my writing.
I will definitely recommend this training to writers of many fields, especially technical fields. The material, presentation, and instructor are fantastic. I learned a lot about ASD-STE. Even though I’ve been using this writing convention for almost eight years, formal training brought much clarity and comprehension that I had not previously realized. I now know that an aptitude for writing and a copy of the STE rules is a good start, but not enough. This course takes your understanding to a professional level!
Lauren Gelli Senior Technical Writer, Aerotech Inc.
A good 1 slide introduction on the history of STE100. Not too lengthy and still comprehensive enough to inform us about how the standard came about and who is the committee behind the updates. My favourite rule will definitely be the half rule since I can decide if I want to follow it or not. Jokes aside, I think all the rules will take some time to remember and put into practice. Interesting exercises during this training that allow us to practise what was just taught. Good that the answers were provided so we can refer back in future. Shumin enunciates her words well and is understandable, so I would recommend anyone who is interested in getting some knowledge about Simplified Technical English to take up this course with her. Having the class address the rules individually keeps us awake and on our toes!
Terence Ong Maintenance Systems Team Lead, Maersk Drilling
Dr Frans Wijma is a very professional and knowledgeable expert in the field of aircraft engineering and aviation documentation, especially ASD-STE100 Simplified Technical English and S1000D. He is also a great teacher who knows how to inspire a group of people across cultural boundaries, always having an open mind and the determination to make everybody perform as best they can. It is amazing how he can help us to convey complex technical content in a very clear and crisp way. Top Qualities: Great Results, Expert, High Integrity
Naeem-Ul-Hassan Pakistan International Airlines, Pakistan
Thanks for this course. I learned a lot and would have liked to spend more time improving these skills. My takeaway? Simplify and remove whatever is unnecessary.
TCLoc Master's Student University of Strasbourg
I know Frans from our involvement in a collaboration between companies to develop and market controlled language checking technology. Frans showed great talent and efficiency as a technology developer and communicator of technical ideas. He is fluent in multiple human and computer languages and his understanding of the principles of controlled language writing and clear communication enable him to provide great value to his customers.
Phil Harrison Advanced Computing Technologist, Boeing
Frans Wijma has done excellent work for The Boeing Company in providing translation, translation system design, custom translation processing software, translation tool training, and translation system troubleshooting and tuning. He is familiar with the data structures of technical publications and has the ability to create solutions for interfacing the customers data with translation aid systems. Top qualities: Great Results, Personable, Expert.