Course Description
for

English 377 / 01 - Peer Tutoring and Composition Theory
Offered Fall Semesters at Shepherd University, Shepherdstown, WV.
Instructor: Karen D. Austin
last updated 14 August 2005

English 377: Peer Tutoring and Composition Theory has a threefold purpose, two of which are evident by the course title.

1. The course introduces the student to basic peer tutoring theory. During the semester, students will read about tutoring, watch others tutor and practice tutoring. Students should develop a model for tutoring based on theory and practice. Students who successfully complete the course may apply to work in the Shepherd University Writing Center.
2. The course also surveys general composition theory that forms the foundation for peer tutoring. Students will read about process theory, collaboration theory, and theories of student-centered instruction.
3. The course gives students the opportunity to improve their own writing skills.  Not only will students study composition theories and tutoring strategies in order to help others more effectively; they will also examine their own writing processes and writing skills. Consequently, part of the course will ask students to improve his or her own writing through reflection and revision.

Essential Skills and Outcomes: The essential skills and outcomes to be acquired through the course include: 1) an ability to articulate the criteria for good writing (with an emphasis on academic essay writing), 2) the ability to interview students about their writing process 3) the ability to identify strengths and weaknesses in one's own writing and in the writing of others 4) the ability to summarize, analyze, and apply composition theory 5) the ability to reflect on the practice of tutoring (tutors as reflective problem solvers) 6) demonstrate technical control over writing as expected of college students (but not necessarily to the level of professional editors) 7) demonstrate dependable behavior by fulfilling the practicum portion of the class.  

Assessment Outcomes: You may be asked to participate in a survey or an anonymous evaluation of your work as part of the on-going assessment project at Shepherd University. This assessment will measure how well the instructor can communicate the course goals, listed above.

The prerequisite for this course is English 102 or its equivalent.

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