This 10 week longitudinal evaluation study evaluated a brain-based learning curriculum proposed by Smilkstein (2003) by comparing student performance in a traditional basic writing curriculum with NHLP-oriented basic writing curriculum. The study included two classes each of experimental and traditional methods. Results of the data, gathered by…

This article describes an examination of writing center practices and principles through a qualitative study of 1,611 conference summaries prepared during one semester. The ensuing discussion refines understanding the relationship between tutoring sessions and the reporting mechanisms they serve. The summaries reveal that almost half of the…

Peer mentoring programs are designed to address problems experienced by new students to assist them in making the transition to university study. The University of New South Wales offers such a program to new undergraduate students. Feedback on the program is obtained from participants through questionnaires and is used to identify problems and to…

Academia has traditionally avoided adopting the fast-paced, profit-oriented operational style that accompanies corporate culture. However, a business model can be successfully adapted to the unique needs of an academic institution, discipline, faculty, and students through the selective adoption of business principles. A classic marketing mix…

Many students who enter colleges and universities seem to be focused on memorizing and regurgitating information rather than on developing critical thinking and problem solving skills. Mentoring is crucial to help these students transition from the current approach to one that will be successful in college. Successful mentoring requires a…

Students in an introductory college biology course who believed that attending class had been important for their academic success in high school were 1) most likely to attend their college biology class, 2) most likely to earn high grades in their college biology class, 3) most likely to report that their high school classes had been challenging,…

Discusses the two core approaches (the deep approach and the surface approach) for writing by college students. Deep approach involves conception is oneself as an agent in making meaning and the surface approach is linked to a more passive strategy marked by reproduction of reorganization of information. Concludes with recommendations for…

Discusses a study that examines the effects of paired tutoring and mentoring on academic achievement of college freshmen in a probationary program. Results show that students with mentoring and tutoring services by the same person show greater academic gains as measured by compliance and academic achievement than do those students who were…

Discusses how after a Supplemental Instruction program is up and running, it is useful to have a health check-up to see how vigorous the program is. Points out that the impacts of SI programs are diminished when activities are reduced. Presents a health checklist based on the elements of a fully functioning Supplemental Instruction program. (MZ)

Describes the rationale for implementing a book club or a book discussion in college developmental reading classes in order to offer both the instructor and the students a chance to interact with the text and peers. Gives instructions on how one can implement a book club including details about the entire process. (Contains 18 references and 2…

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.)…

Analyzes a tutor survey conducted at Ball State University (Indiana) and addresses pragmatic questions related to issues of tutor motivation. States that the goals of the research are to improve hiring, training, and managing procedures of tutor coordinators, and to offer a better understanding of tutors. (Contains four tables and seven…

Describes a process model for serving students with disabilities. Reports that, from a systems perspective, the model provides guidance for building and maintaining a program and consists of eight components that offer a global framework from which to view the program. Includes guidelines for program evaluation. (Contains 16 references.) (NB)

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)