Keywords
writing center assessment, WCENTER, online tutoring
Abstract
In the summer that preceded our first semester at Wittenberg University, when questioned about our decision to commit to an intensive research program in a field we knew absolutely nothing about, the three of us likely gave the same robotic answer: “It is a wonderful opportunity.” We knew that we were paired with a faculty mentor to work collaboratively on a research project during our first year, and we knew that we’d been presented with a project intended to study the effectiveness of eTutoring comments in Wittenberg University’s Writing Center. And that was it. At the time, we had no idea just how true the statement about opportunity really was. Almost two full years later, it’s amazing to look back on what we’ve accomplished as a result of the FYRA (First Year Research Award) program. As soon as we began the research process in the fall semester, we were immersed in writing center literature, which helped us further develop our research question. Then, in the spring semester, we went through the semester-long training course to become advisors in the Writing Center. (A little bit backwards, we know!) We also participated in the Naylor Workshop on Undergraduate Research in Writing Studies and presented at both regional and international writing center conferences. How many people can say all that about their first two years in college?
Citation Information
Type of Source: Journal Article
Authors: Courtney Buck, Emily Nolan, and Jamie Spallino
Year of Publication: 2020
Title: “Experience and Innovation“
Publication: Comp Studies 48(1)