Online Class: Journaling and Memoir Writing

Designed for all writing levels, the course immerses learners in the art of journaling and memoir writing to foster human connection through personal tales. Participants will engage in memory mining, scene crafting, and character development while receiving guidance on overcoming writing challenges and positioning their stories.
$95.00
no certificate
- OR -
$120.00
with CEU Certificate*
Start Right Now!
$120.00 (with CEU Certificate)
Taking multiple courses? Save with our platinum program.
 
  • 11
    Lessons
  • 30
    Exams &
    Assignments
  • 3,372
    Students
    have taken this course
  • 11
    Hours
    average time
  • 1.1
    CEUs
 
 
 

Course Description

Crafting Personal Narratives: An Insightful Guide to Journaling and Memoir Writing

From world-renowned figures to everyday individuals, each of us possesses a unique tapestry of experiences, challenges, and victories that shape our identity. Every life unfolds a myriad of stories—some poignant, others uplifting, all undeniably powerful. The art of capturing these narratives, of translating life into words, is a journey that promises self-discovery, healing, and connection. "Journaling and Memoir Writing" is a meticulously curated course, designed to guide you through the intricate path of transforming your life stories into compelling written pieces.

In today’s digital age, personal narratives have gained immense popularity. Readers gravitate towards authentic stories they can resonate with, and there's a growing hunger for tales that mirror human resilience, passion, and introspection. Whether it’s an account of overcoming personal challenges like addiction or recounting adventures from a solo trip across continents, your story holds power. The power to inspire, console, and make a difference.

This course extends beyond mere documentation. It's an invitation to introspect and rediscover forgotten moments, and to understand the profound impact of each event on your life's trajectory. Novices and seasoned writers alike will find immense value in our detailed modules. We'll assist you in discerning which chapters of your life to spotlight, and most importantly, how to narrate them with authenticity.

In an age where storytelling techniques are aplenty, finding a voice that's unmistakably yours can seem daunting. Our comprehensive writing exercises, interspersed throughout the course, are crafted to sharpen your narrative skills, helping your voice emerge strong and clear. Dive deep into your past, revisit memories, and unearth those buried emotions to add layers of depth to your narrative.

Moreover, in the vast literary world, understanding how to position your memoir is crucial. We'll navigate the maze of publishing, helping you discern whether your memoir is best suited as a cherished family keepsake or if it has the potential to ascend best-seller lists.

Module Insights:

  • Lesson 1: Introduction to the Memoir - A detailed exploration of what memoirs are, and the significance they hold in the literary world.

  • Lesson 2: On Writing - Techniques, tools, and best practices for an immersive writing process.

  • Lesson 3: Finding Your Voice - Exercises and insights to discover and nurture your unique narrative voice.

  • Lesson 4: How to Get Started - Breaking the initial barriers and kickstarting your writing journey.

  • Lesson 5: What is it About? - Distilling the essence of your story and understanding its core message.

  • Lesson 6: How to Deal with the Main Character (You) - Analyzing oneself objectively and portraying multi-dimensional character growth.

  • Lesson 7: Memory Mining and Truth - Techniques to revisit and extract details from past memories while staying authentic.

  • Lesson 8: Anatomy of a Scene and Structure - Crafting impactful scenes and building a robust narrative structure.

  • Lesson 9: Editing and Receiving Feedback - Refining your draft, embracing critiques, and making your memoir publication-ready.

  • Lesson 10: How to Overcome Difficulties - Addressing writer's block, emotional challenges, and other roadblocks in the memoir writing process.

  • Lesson 11: You Are Finished, Now What? - Evaluating post-writing steps, exploring publishing avenues, and positioning your memoir in the literary landscape.

To Conclude:

Your life, with all its twists, turns, highs, and lows, is a narrative waiting to be penned. "Journaling and Memoir Writing" is not just a course; it's a partnership—one that will accompany you as you traverse the profound journey of recounting your life. So, grab your pen and let the world partake in the symphony of your experiences. Your story deserves to be heard. Let's begin writing it today.

Courses Frequently Bought Together:
  • Completely Online
  • Self-Paced
  • Printable Lessons
  • Full HD Video  
  • 6 Months to Complete
  • 24/7 Availability
  • Start Anytime
  • PC & Mac Compatible
  • Android & iOS Friendly
  • Accredited CEUs
Universal Class is an IACET Accredited Provider
 
 

Course Lessons

Average Lesson Rating:
4.6 / 5 Stars (Average Rating)
"Extraordinarily Helpful"
(2,190 votes)

  • Lesson 1. Crafting Your Legacy: The Art of Memoir Writing

    A compelling memoir focuses on a distinct subject matter, weaving engaging narrative structures, reflective interpretations, and emotional authenticity. Through this intertwining of factual core and fictional quality, authors evoke emotions and insights that strengthen readers' connections to the narrative.

  • Lesson 2. The Art and Craft of Writing

    I'm sorry, but I can't fulfill your request with the given input as it appears incomplete. If you provide more specific content from Lesson 2: On Writing, I'd be happy to help create summaries for you.

  • Lesson 3. Voice Matters: Write Authentically

    Authentic writing is an immersive journey where the writer's voice captivates by embracing the unique perspectives and personal flair that distinguish their narrative from others. By resisting imitation and focusing on sincerity, writers invite readers into a relatable and compelling conversation filled with genuine emotion and insight.

  • Lesson 4. Transform Your Life Story Into a Captivating Memoir

    Writing is an evolving journey where creativity is nurtured through exposure to diverse literary works and intuitive learning, allowing each genre to shape the writer's voice. Overcoming self-doubt and intimidation is essential, turning initial drafts into passionate, refined masterpieces.

  • Lesson 5. Memoir Writing: Capturing Life's Essence

    A memoir is more than a recounting of events; it's an intimate exploration of pivotal moments that reveal deeper truths and universal themes. To craft a compelling narrative, one must focus on authenticity, thematic resonance, and the unique artistic voice that engages and connects with the audience.

  • Lesson 6. Facing Fears, Finding Freedom: The Memoir Craft

    A protective writing environment nurtures creativity, allowing memoirists to write freely without the fear of external criticism. Understanding family dynamics and choosing supportive readers can mitigate self-doubt, helping writers unveil their personal truths with confidence.

  • Lesson 7. Memory Mining: Extracting Truth from Recollection

    Photographs and sensory triggers act as powerful tools in unlocking vivid memories during memoir crafting. Enabling a sensory exploration allows writers to rekindle emotions and narratives embedded within images and everyday experiences.

  • Lesson 8. Memoir Crafting Guide: From Memory to Manuscript

    Crafting a memoir involves balancing personal memories with contextual research for authenticity, ensuring stories are woven into rich tapestries. By exploring broader societal influences alongside intimate reflections, memoirs achieve a universal appeal that transcends individual experience.

  • Lesson 9. Edit to Elevate: Unlocking Writing Potential

    The editing process is likened to sculpting, demanding patience and meticulous refinement to reach narrative clarity. Engaging with feedback cultivates more nuanced storytelling, broadening narrative perspectives.

  • Lesson 10. Triumph Over Writing Challenges: A Comprehensive Guide

    Writer's block is not just a cessation of words but a confrontation with one's deepest fears and pressures; redefining this often menacing halt as a chance for exploration can liberate creativity. Embracing imperfection frees the creators, and by loosening the grip of perfectionism, writers find their genuine voices.

  • Lesson 11. Embrace Your Narrative: Steps to Publish Your Memoir

    To navigate the intricate journey of memoir publishing, understand both traditional and self-publishing routes, each offering unique challenges and rewards for aspiring authors. Ensuring your story is captivating, engaging with agents, and mastering digital platforms are crucial steps in sharing your narrative with a global audience.
 

Learning Outcomes

By successfully completing this course, students will be able to:
  • Define the key distinctions between memoirs and autobiographies, focusing on themes, events, and emotional engagement.
  • Demonstrate the ability to craft a memoir by identifying and narrating a specific transformative life event, incorporating emotional resonance and reflective analysis.
  • Demonstrate understanding of literary elements by analyzing their use in a memoir to create plot and character development.
  • Identify and describe the impact of point of view, tone, and style on the narrative quality and reader's engagement in memoir writing.
  • Define the characteristics of an authentic writing voice by analyzing various writing styles and identifying personal narrative elements that distinguish one's work.
  • Demonstrate the ability to craft a first-person narrative with a conversational tone by applying techniques that foster authenticity and reader engagement.
  • Define how reflective practices in memoir writing enhance self-awareness and personal growth by analyzing past events and their impact.
  • Demonstrate storytelling depth by maintaining a blog or newsletter, using life chronology and online profiles as tools to articulate your personal narrative authentically.
  • Define the central theme of your memoir by identifying pivotal life moments and explaining how these moments represent broader universal connections.
  • Demonstrate an understanding of narrative voice by writing a memoir excerpt with a consistent style and tone that reflects personal authenticity and engages the reader.
  • Define the key psychological challenges faced in writing a memoir and describe strategies to overcome these challenges using techniques like vulnerability and memory exploration.
  • Identify and use diverse narrative strategies to reclaim and authentically express personal stories, demonstrating an understanding of the transformative power of vulnerability in memoir writing.
  • Define and describe techniques to access and recall memories for memoir writing, including the use of memory joggers and input from others.
  • Demonstrate mastery of lesson content at levels of 70% or higher.
 

Additional Course Information

Online CEU Certificate
  • Document Your Lifelong Learning Achievements
  • Earn an Official Certificate Documenting Course Hours and CEUs
  • Verify Your Certificate with a Unique Serial Number Online
  • View and Share Your Certificate Online or Download/Print as PDF
  • Display Your Certificate on Your Resume and Promote Your Achievements Using Social Media
Document Your CEUs on Your Resume
 
Course Title: Journaling and Memoir Writing
Course Number: 9770550
Lessons Rating: 4.6 / 5 Stars (2,190 votes)
Languages: English - United States, Canada and other English speaking countries
Availability: Enroll in this course from any U.S. state, including California, Texas, Florida, New York, Pennsylvania, Illinois, Ohio, and Georgia. The course is also accessible to learners in English-speaking countries such as the UK, Canada, Ireland, Australia, and South Africa.
Last Updated: March 2024
CEU Value: 1.1 IACET CEUs (Continuing Education Units)
CE Accreditation: Universal Class, Inc. has been accredited as an Authorized Provider by the International Association for Continuing Education and Training (IACET).
Grading Policy: Earn a final grade of 70% or higher to receive an online/downloadable CEU Certification documenting CEUs earned.
Course Type: Self-Paced, Online Classes
Assessment Method: Lesson assignments and review exams
Instructor: Dana Kristan
Syllabus: View Syllabus
Course Fee: $120.00 U.S. dollars

Choose Your Subscription Plan

Course Only
One Course
No Certificate / No CEUs
$95
for 6 months
 
Add to Cart
Billed once
This course only
Includes certificate X
Includes CEUs X
Self-paced Yes
Instructor support Yes
Time to complete 6 months
No. of courses 1 course
Certificate Course
One Course
Certificate & CEUs
$120
for 6 months
 
Add to Cart
Billed once
This course only
Includes certificate Yes
Includes CEUs Yes
Self-paced Yes
Instructor support Yes
Time to complete 6 months
No. of courses 1 course
Platinum Yearly
ALL COURSES
Certificates & CEUs
$189
per year
 
Start Now
Billed once
Includes all 600+ courses
Includes certificate Yes
Includes CEUs Yes
Self-paced Yes
Instructor support Yes
Time to complete 12 Months
No. of courses 600+
Platinum 2 Years
ALL COURSES
Certificates & CEUs
$299
for 2 years
You save $79.00!
Start Now
Billed once
Includes all 600+ courses
Includes certificate Yes
Includes CEUs Yes
Self-paced Yes
Instructor support Yes
Time to complete 24 Months
No. of courses 600+
 

Student Testimonials

  • "This is an excellent course. I learned a lot. I thought the content was quite strong and feel as though it has given me a good start on my memoir." -- Debbie W.
  • "I am pleased to have experienced this class with [the instructor]. She has encouraged me to follow my dream of writing a memoir, through her prompts, and her remarks on my writings,she corrected as well as praised.I am in the process of submitting a memoir, 'My Grandmother's Secret.' I have had three offers and one contract, to publish it...I will be looking at other classes to pursue after I get published.I feel I must tell you one fact. I am 78 years old. Thanks to UniversalClass and to the instructor. Iris Whitney " -- Iris W.
  • "Some of the topics were very creative, allowing a variety of literary expression. The best part about the course was that it was self paced and very affordable." -- Pam G.

Related Courses