Argues that the TRPP (Theory, Research, Practice, Principles) model provides a framework that helps teachers to cross the divide between theory and practice. Explains that the ultimate goal is to maximize student potential, particularly through critical reflection. Presents principles with a specific example for practice. (Contains 18 references.)…

Discusses a hierarchy of concerns tutors can use in working with ESL writers. Suggests that the student's understanding of the assignment, development of a thesis, logical organization, and fully developed ideas all supplant minor issues, such as improper use of the definite article or subject/verb agreement. (NB)

Addresses the traditional understanding of reliability as it pertains to writing portfolio assessments. Offers a list of practical actions that can be taken to increase assessment reliability, including explicit definitions of what a portfolio holds, rater training, rater burnout, and consistent rating procedures. (Contains 26 references.) (NB)

Proposes that there is a need for a specially trained group of English-as-a-Second-Language (ESL) literacy tutors for college and university tutoring and writing centers. Argues that literacy tutors with a sufficient background in linguistics and second language acquisition would be better equipped to handle non-native speakers' requests for…

Argues that demandingness, responsiveness, and self-regulation could be used to organize, explain, and predict useful techniques for developmental education practitioners. Also contends that student self-regulation is developed in demanding and supportive environments. Stresses the need for a training initiative in developmental education.…

Suggests that higher education historians often ignore or minimize the history of developmental education. Argues that this memory distortion may be an effort to avoid the discomfort of facing the history of inequity in higher education. (Contains 28 references.) (NB)

Asserts that technology can be one of the strongest teaching and learning tools available today if used well. Finds that, in particular, courses enriched through use of e-mail, electronic bulletin boards, "drill and practice" software, and the Internet can help to engage developmental students, motivating and enabling them to achieve greater…

Presents the case study success story of a University of Port Elizabeth Advancement Program student named Elroy Africander. Underscores two significant components of student transition programs: the need for support for students' personal and emotional growth, and that practitioners should regularly assess the strengths and weaknesses of programs…

In 1993, Research and Teaching in Developmental Education published a commentary by Dr. Jeanne L. Higbee titled "Developmental versus Remedial: More than Semantics," expecting a response from the readership that never materialized. In this article, the author once again challenges developmental educators to reevaluate their mission and focus on…

Presents the reconstruction of conversations and e-mail correspondences with Dr. Marcia Baxter Magolda regarding students'"ways of knowing." Dr. Baxter Magolda reveals various ways in which students beginning college learn, offers examples of effective teaching, and exemplifies principles for promoting learning. (VWC)

States that learning assistance centers are often caught in the throws of controversy at institutions of higher education. Examines some of the causal contributors to this controversy in an attempt to help learning assistance professionals identify the strategies necessary to preserve their centers' integrity in good and difficult financial times.…

Reviews the reaction to the movement within the developmental education and learning assistance profession to create a national certification program for individuals. Provides a brief history of standards and certification in this field, responses from interviews with Hunter Boylan and David Arendale regarding individual certification, and poses…

Presents an interview with Dr. Martha Maxwell, author of five books on student learning skills, regarding the field of developmental education. Discusses how developmental education began and where Dr. Maxwell sees it going. Describes her feelings about the recent attempts at privatization; the chronic funding problems; and the ongoing question of…

Shares the author's beliefs about the practice of teaching developmental writing in an attempt to get colleagues in other academic settings involved in a dialogue about the writing philosophies in their practices. Presents an interest in the beliefs and theories that form the foundation of what others do in their writing programs. (VWC)

Presents an action plan for the many developmental educators who have been enraged by the entry of private companies into the developmental education field. Asserts that developmental educators should combine the best that learning assistance has to offer with the best that the private companies have to offer, within a framework and language that…