Discusses instructing writing tutors, and tutorial classroom technqiues. Contains a list of different kinds of tutorial sessions to serve as a model for tutors. (HTH)

A writing center derives its definition from the services it renders. (HOD)

Shows how tutorial encounters enact gradations and extremes in the manner of Ernst Cassirer's concept of "word magic." Argues that tutorials in which students try to find the "right words" illustrate the need to make written language commensurate with human thought. Narrates several case studies illustrating these insights. (HB)

Discusses the reason for the delay of designing and executing a case study method for writing center tutorials. (EL)

Takes a "critical" look at the relationship between Writing across the Curriculum and the Writing Center at Dickinson College, which is typical of many institutions. Explains how Writing across the Curriculum principles have prompted the Writing Center to rethink its role and to examine its tutoring practices. (TB)

Argues that it is possible and desirable for writing tutors, acting out their role in classroom tutoring programs rather than in writing center programs, to play the dual role of teacher and tutor. Maintains that classroom tutoring projects have the potential to help educators practice the art of translating different philosophies, practices, and…

Examines some of the difficulties in peer tutoring and points out the dilemma of whether to emphasize the tutor component (apprentice model) or the peer component (colearner model). Offers a solution that incorporates elements from both stages, one that treats tutors developmentally. (NKA)

Providing a complex representation of a beginning writing tutor's role, this monograph, written as a journal, was drawn from a tutor's own perceptions and those of her students. While refinement of composition skills frames the entire narrative, the day-by-day record of the tutor's first quarter also emphasizes such skills as goal setting,…

Describes generic problem-solving model constructed by D. Koberg and J. Bagnall that can be used by writing center tutors and that progresses as follows: (1) accept situation, (2) analyze, (3) define, (4) ideate, (5) select, (6) implement, (7) evaluate. Provides tutors with coherent framework and with way of breaking larger framework down into…

Argues that while the writing laboratory cannot solve all problems inherent in teaching writing, it is a rich resource for both student and instructor. (MM)

Writing labs should utilize the knowledge gained from a variety of fields to enhance further their programs, particularly with regard to the study of nonverbal communication. Regardless of the sincerity and importance of the tutor's suggestions, nonverbal messages often are sent to the student which undermine the session. Various channels of…

Notes the inevitable tensions that arise between centripetal writing centers and centrifugal writing across the curriculum programs. Examines the tutoring program at an eastern university as an example of a decentralized writing center that resists pressures to assume a uniform composition pedagogy and coordinates its work with many parts of the…

Keeping writing center records is perhaps the director's most dreaded chore, and it is often seen as a negative duty detracting from the more important business of helping tutors and student clients. However, research data that computers now make almost instantly available reveals surprisingly positive results and ways of presenting those results…

In addition to its other services, the writing center offers its staff professional skills that can be of advantage in careers ranging from teaching to business. First of all, graduate students who have tutored have an advantage when applying for assistantships, for they already have experience in conveying content and developing student skills.…

Freshman and sophomore composition students who are required to write in response to literature frequently find that they are not yet secure enough in their basic writing skills to discuss a literary work. In order to help these students, writing center tutors must be familiar with the assigned writing tasks and what instructors expect from an…