Blog 9: Hitt, O'Leary and Nan

11/17/2022

Summary:

     To start with, Hitt's writing is focused on addressing accessibility in writing centres for those with disabilities.  She outlines existing issues in the design and function of some centres which can make it difficult for disabled persons to be able to utilize the centre to the extent that someone without disabilities would be able to.  O'Leary's excerpt speaks on persistent issues within writing centres relating to gender, particularly with perceived stereotypes pertaining to traditionally masculine and feminine identities.  Nan's article addresses the rising number of Chinese students in American schools, and goes into how a tutor may be able to more effectively assist those whose primary language isn't English.  

Commentary:

    I feel as though these articles are a good way to round off the readings for this year, as they address issues which go beyond simple writing centre function or tutoring strategies.  At this point in the class, it is important to try to get into more complex facets of a writing centre so a prospective tutor will be able to go in with these issues in mind.  Being able to account for physical, social, and linguistic differences is an aspect of tutoring that isn't immediately apparent when learning how to tutor, but it is certainly advisable to not only be aware of such things in the writing centre, but to also have some prior knowledge so as to work to accommodate for them.  The readings provide good insight into lingering social dilemmas, and serve well in preparing a prospective tutor to work to overcome any possible issues relating to them.   

Question:

    Does CNU have any specific training for helping those who speak English as a secondary language?