How to Become A Peer Writing Tutor

To become a writing tutor in Manhattanville's Writing Center, the completion of ENC 3006 is required. If you are interested in taking the course, please contact Prof. Brower (carleigh.brower@mville.edu).

ENC.3006A: The Theory and Practice of Tutoring Writing

This year-long course is intended for students interested in the theory and practice of tutoring writing. This course is a prerequisite for anyone who wishes to apply for a paid position as a peer tutor in the Writing Center.

Fall Semester: Introduction to the Theory & Practice of Tutoring Writing (3 credits)

During the first semester, students will be introduced to the field of composition theory, with particular focus on approaches to working one-to-one with student writers. By sharing and critiquing their own writing with peers and engaging in role playing/mock tutoring sessions, students will learn the ways in which varied theoretical perspectives can be translated into practice.

Spring Semester: Writing Center Internship (1 credit)

During the second semester, students will gain hands-on experience by first shadowing peer tutors and reflecting on these observations, then tutoring one-to-one in the Writing Center. Alternately, students might spend the semester engaged in a Writing Center project such as the creation of a Peer Tutoring Handbook/Online Tutoring Resources, the development of an Online Writing Lab, assessments of Writing Center effectiveness, or a proposal for the National Conference on Peer Tutoring in Writing (NCPTW). Students will be required to keep a log of their tutoring observations and sessions and attend monthly staff meetings to reflect upon their tutoring experiences and the relationship between theory and practice. Students will also be required to research and read a variety of theoretical texts, culminating in a final research project.