First Paragraph
In his introduction to Wiring the Writing Center, Eric Hobson points out that, like those lured by the possibilities of the 19th century American land rush, today’s educators are being attracted to “seemingly endless possibilities for incorporating computers and electronic communication technology into the classroom and other learning environments”(ix). Unfortunately, like their historical predecessors, many educators are making decisions about using technology with little guidance or forethought. One of the emerging frontiers of electronic communication in education is synchronous technology, which is widespread in commercial use and which more closely resembles face-to-face education than do other online platforms. While many commentators have discussed the theoretical and practical uses of these other online platforms, little attention has of yet been given to synchronous tutorials. Even Hobson’s book, the most up-to-date on the subject of technology in the writing center, provides no detailed account of how synchronous tutorials have actually worked. An account of this type is sorely needed to open the discussion of its capabilities and limitations and to facilitate the progress of others interested in experimenting with this type of “virtual” tutorial.
Citation Information
Type of Scholarship: Newsletter Article
Author: Doug Enders
Year of Publication: 2000
Title: “Virtual Success: Using Microsoft NetMeeting in Synchronous, Online Tutorials”
Publication: Writing Lab Newsletter, Volume 24, Issue 6
Page Range: 12-16