BLOG # 3

PHILOSOPHIES:

Position of writing center model

• I believe writing centers should allow for an interchangeable atmosphere, where all 3 existing models are used, as need be. Sometimes, the tutor should give knowledge to the student. For example, if a student is writing a paper that requires a certain format, but it unsure of its content...the tutor should provide that information. This would be an example of a Storehouse Center.


• Other times, a Garret House model might be best, say if the student is more knowledgeable about the subject matter he/she chooses to write about. In this case, the tutor can simply ask the student to clarify their main points, form they think is best, tone of voice to be used, etc...


• Sometimes, Burkean Parlor models may be more effective. There may be instances where knowledge should be shared amongst tutor and student, since they speak the same 'language'. In this case, social constructivism can be used where the information about how to write is developed through their conversations, etc...


• I believe it is best to allow for all 3 writing center models to be used, so that all avenues are available to create the best writing possible.

Where knowledge is

• Because I would use all 3 models interchangeably, knowledge would be found in the tutor, the student and contextually.

How learners gain knowledge

• Different people learn in different ways, and that is why I would allow for whichever model helps each particular student to be used.


• Some students only absorb information when they are being told it.


• Others are better at stating what they know works for them, and just need help putting it into a proper format, or finding focus.


• Also, some students learn more when they collaborate with someone else, and bounce ideas off each other.

What Knowledge is

• I believe knowledge is a mix of fixed meanings, such as formats, etc...this would be objective, because it deals with facts


• Knowledge can also be subjective, and relate to a personal experience.

IMPLICATIONS:

Role of tutor

• The role of the tutor would shift in my writing center from leader, to advocate of students opinions, and facilitator of methods to improve writing...and to collaborator with the student to find knowledge that can be used through conversations, etc...

Physical set-up

• Sometimes the tutor would need to sit in front of the student, ie. when using the Storehouse model


• Sometimes the tutor would need to sit side by side with the student, when collaborating, and/or when allowing the student to share his/her knowledge (in Burkean Parlor and Garret House models).

Power relations

• Power would shift between the tutor (representing the University) and the student to allow for the interchange of models previously stated.