"Power and Authority in Peer Tutoring" Response

Over the course of these past two weeks these reading assignments have taken me on a journey towards one conclusion. There is no specific format that is best when consulting with a client about their writing. This article was the perfect addition to this realization.

This article goes further then the previous one which discusses the pros and cons of directive and nondirective tutoring. It speaks of the importance of retaining our tutoring power while remaining a peer to our clients when they come in to consult with us. As with direct and non direct consulting, a balance must be struck between authority and humility as we deal with each unique writing situation and writer. We need to become an expert at quickly assessing both our knowledge and the writer's knowledge on their subject and assignment, as well as the client's ability as a writer. The stage of their process needs toncome in as a factor to determine your tutorial balance as well.

After feeling so strongly about the powers that nondirective tutoring can offer I was relieved to see this article. Some students simply need more guidance then others. I was able to witness this firsthand this week in my first two days as a writing center consultant.

My first day I had the opportunity to witness an experienced tutor as she guided a student through helpful practices in writing a compare and contrast paper. This tutor says that she has a very direct approach with clients such as these who simply need some one on one time with someone who knows what they are doing and can give them the tools that they will need in order to write sucessful future papers.

My second day was different because I was given the unexpected opportunity to lead my first session. Thankfully the previous consultant the student had seen had given him virtually everything he needed to know. In this case I had the chance to use a nondirect approach by simply acting as a sounding board and guiding him towards his reconciliation between his topic, his teacher's suggestions, his teacher's requirements, and the previous consultant's suggestions. It was amazing to watch as he put all the prices together and created an outline that he felt confident in.

Why give these examples? Each situation, each session, each student is different. Treat them as such. The takeaway from all of this reading should be let the student do the work as much as possible, 'gift' them knowledge as they need it, and treat each session as a blank slate. The student will tell you what they need, our job is to listen.


Sorry if this post sounds like I am pounding the pulpit. I am simply sharing my takeaways and what I have learned so far. I know that I still have a lot to learn when it comes to being a helpful writing consultant. I just feel these are the most important tools we can have as we dive in next week. Good luck everyone!