How Does Writer Preparedness in Writing Center Tutoring Sessions affect Student Success in Criminological Theory?

• In Event: Roundtable: Teaching Criminology

Abstract

Writing centers are designed to help students strengthen their written work and provide guidance through the writing process. This study assesses how the incorporation of an embedded writing center tutor affects student achievement. Data were collected from 23 students who completed a total of 90 papers in a writing-intensive criminological theory course. Specifically, students were required to meet with the tutor for 30 minutes before submitting their theory papers. Detailed notes were taken by the tutor on the quality of the session such as level of preparedness of the student, whether the student had questions, stage in the writing process, and whether any writing occurred during the session. We predict that writer preparedness will affect students’ paper grades and the likelihood of making content and grammar errors. Results and implications for the use of embedded writing center tutors are discussed in this paper.

Authors

• Shelley Keith, The University of Memphis

• Kristen L. Stives, Auburn University at Montgomery

• Laura Jean Kerr, Mississippi State University

• Kiley Forsythe, Mississippi State University