Chapter 1 Reflection: The Purpose of a Writing Center

Read Stephen M. North’s seminal work The Idea of a Writing Center (1984), then reflect: Did anything surprise you? Focus specifically on the idea of a Writing Center as a space for intellectual growth vs. fixing errors. You may draw upon your own assumptions and/or experiences of a Writing Center and discuss how your instructors have approached the idea of a Writing Center with you in the classroom.

If turning in a written reflection to your director (yes, for UW), please write a minimum of three paragraphs. 

Next, read Mike Mattison’s decision to cut Stephen North from his syllabus in his blog post, Heading East, Leaving North (2016). Reflect on what Mattison writes when he says ‘We are moving away from North, away from an identity claimed through frustration and ideals. We are, instead, starting with the talk, with research that targets specifically the words exchanged by writers and readers in a one-to-one setting.’ Do you agree with his decision to move beyond North in shaping Writing Center pedagogy, specifically in the context of the University of Wyoming’s attitudes toward the Writing Center? Is there any value to reading North as a new Writing Center consultant? Why or why not?

If turning in a written reflection to your director (yes, for UW), please write a minimum of one paragraph.