Our approach: Teaching (with) Writing
- Teaching writing refers to the idea that learning to write always means learning how to write as a member of a discipline, field, or community of practice. What counts as “good writing” differs from field to field, and the University Writing Programs aim to help faculty across the disciplines articulate their values for writing and integrate them into assignment and course design.
- Teaching with writing, on the other hand, refers to the idea that writing is a tool for learning. The very act of writing helps students connect ideas, clarify thinking, explore topics, and demonstrate understanding. The University Writing Programs help faculty develop new ways of using writing as a learning tool.
Click here for more information on past and future workshop topics.
The University Writing Program offers faculty opportunities to develop strategies for teaching writing and teaching with writing. Contact the Director of the University Writing Programs for more information.
Topical workshops
The University Writing Program, often teamed with the Center for Excellence in Teaching and Learning provides workshops for faculty in all disciplines with a special focus on teachers of WI courses. Grounded in current writing theory and research,, each workshop serves as a forum for faculty to swap ideas, learn new strategies and hone teaching practices. Recent workshops have dealt with a range of topics from assignment and syllabus design to assessing integrating peer review. All faculty are encouraged to attend and to suggest workshop topics. Click here for more information.
Department and program workshops
In addition to topical workshops, the Writing Program will work directly with departments or programs to tailor faculty workshops in context. These have ranged from an overview of the Writing Intensive Guidelines to building critical thinking with writing. Contact the Director of the Writing Program for details or to request a workshop. Click here for more information.
One-on-one consultations
Writing Program representatives are available for individual consultation with faculty. Such consultations may address a range of instructor concerns, such as: course and assigment design, drafting and revision, incorporating meaningful feedback, the uses of writing, time and workload management. Contact the Associate Director of the University Writing Programs.