Writing Tutors Are not Limited to English Subjects

     Analysis and Response to article 12

       Multiple subject tutoring is the latest trend in the academic community. But is multiple subject tutoring  just a trend or is it here to stay?


      Students in all disciplines are encouraged to visit the writing center at their college to get help with their different classes. Experts say it's a great way to bridge the gaps between all departments to get the whole college on board.


     At first there were some concerns about how an English/Writing tutor could help a student in a non-English class. However  writing is the same in every discipline. It starts with a strong thesis and logical argument and ends with a cunning and creative conclusion. Writing is a process. Students in other disciplines need help with their processes. That is why tutors don't have to be experts at a specific field to help another student with his/her writing. Tutors are good at the process.

      Ultimately tutoring multiple subjects is important because it gets students to become scholars. For example biology majors think like biologists when they write their lab reports. Political science students think like politicians when they write their debates. Many universities are taking up the "writing across curriculum" movement or WAC as some call it. The WAC program teaches students that it's okay to not be experts at certain subjects. What is important is that the tutor knows enough about reading/writing to be comfortable enough to teach the student about essays, biographies, labs, etc.

The relationship between a WAC tutor and student is unique. WAC's can be employed by writing centers or they can be in an informal network of faculty. WAC's can be online or in person. Most students go to a WAC in person so they can physically see and share their work.

Overall multiple subject tutors are not just a trend. They are a new and improved resource within the academic community. Multiple subject tutors and WAC's exhibit three characteristics that are important in any discipline:

1. strong listening and questioning skills
2. supportive feedback
3. co learning with the student writer

As long as tutors stick to these characteristics they can help any student in any discipline!

I'll leave you with this quote by scholar Paul Connolly, fellow writing tutor and scholar:

"Allowing more oral, colloquial,contingent speech and more informal tentative writing into the classroom allows students to think for themselves..."