A Synthesis of Qualitative Studies of Writing Center Tutoring, 1983-2006

by Babcock, Rebecca Day; Manning, Kellye; Rogers, Travis; Goff, Courtney; McCain, Amanda

• ISBN13: 9781433117879
• ISBN10: 1433117878
• Format: Paperback
• Copyright: 2012-09-28
• Publisher: Peter Lang Pub Inc

Excerpts

This volume is a synthesis of qualitative studies of writing centers published between 1983 and 2006. Most research that has been done on writing centers has been qualitative, hence the qualitative focus of this book. Up until now, writing center tutoring, rather than being based on research, has been based on common practice, lore, and theory imposed from outside disciplines such as psychology and literary studies. In order to develop a framework of the current state of research, the co-authors used a team approach to grounded theory, using published research, theses and dissertations as data. In a typical setting, tutor and tutee encounter each other bringing background, expectations, and personal characteristics into a context composed of outside influences. Through the use of roles and communication they interact, creating the session focus, the energy of which is generated through a continuum of collaboration and conflict. the temperament and emotions of the tutor and tutee interplay with the other factors in the session. the confluence of these factors results in the outcome of the session (affective, cognitive, and material). This volume will be of value to writing center tutors, directors, researchers, and college administrators.