Indicates a desire and need to construct an elaborately detailed and historiographically sophisticated model that would effectively account for the complexity of writing center development and history. Critically examines two models currently in use, the "evolutionary" model and the "dialectic" model. Offers a cultural model of writing center…

Recounts a history of the National Writing Centers Association based on the author's personal recollection and minutes, back issues of "The Writing Center Journal" and "Writing Lab Newsletter," miscellaneous correspondence, and convention proceedings and programs. Explains why the organization exists and what road led the founders to it. (TB)

Traces the origins and development of writing centers. States that a reasonably solid history can be seen beginning in the early 1970s and earlier. Provides a definition of the features found in writing labs. Describes a program founded in World War II designed by the Armed Forces to teach officers two years of English in two semesters. (PA)

Discusses the history of the writing center at the California University of Pennsylvania. Concludes that writing centers are subject to the same social and political forces that affect all educational issues and decisions. Argues that writing centers must prepare to live politically if they are to continue to grow as progressive resources within…

Notes that writing centers have defined their goals and unique approaches and that they have gained a sense of permanence and a level of professionalism that has established writing centers as integral parts of writing instruction. Argues that writing centers have experienced growth and expansion but no major swings, shifts, or redefinitions of…