Suggests that the ideal relationship between the writing center and an English department's writing program is almost symbiotic, each benefiting the other and both forwarding writing as a powerful tool for writing. Describes the writing centers at Montana State University and University of Nevada, Reno. (RS)

Argues that, whether or not writing centers become an established part of the academic community, writing center staff should maintain a willingness to entertain multiple perspectives on critical issues and an ability to tolerate contradictions and contraries. Discusses some of the emerging dogmas concerning writing center instruction. (RS)

Contends that the collaborative learning occurring in a writing center is ethical. Argues that educating young writers is more important than certifying their ability; that research demonstrates the efficacy of collaborative learning; and that inexperienced writers are entitled to the same collaborative help that professional writers expect and…

Suggests that the correlation between writing instruction and the psychoanalytic process is most apparent in the interaction between writing center tutors and their students. Argues that the core of tutoring and psychotherapy is the interactional dynamics of a search for insight involving an intimate transference of trust and vulnerability between…

Argues that encouraging a "dialogue of one" (in which students internalize their reading selves in the act of revision) contributes to reuniting students' academic and cultural selves. Contends that students can learn the language appropriate to the literate community by recognizing that their writing is subject to critical questioning and…

Argues that writing centers can unintentionally emphasize writing-for-evaluation at the expense of writing-for-learning. Proposes that writing centers help students write productive journal entries; coach students in freewriting; appeal directly to students in writing-for-learning courses; and sponsor ongoing faculty education in…

Argues that writing center tutors (who deal with fragile egos, undeveloped thought, and unfulfilled promises) must not let their opinions interfere with writing instruction. Argues that tutors must also make their students aware of other viewpoints and, if the case warrants it, overstep the bounds of objectivity in expressing those views. (RS)

Describes two models of interaction between the writing center and entire classes (required attendance and tutor assignments) which led to practical, pedagogical, and philosophical problems. Describes a peer group critique model which overcomes such problems and helps large numbers of students learn the value of discussing ideas and drafts with…

Uses Michele Le Doeuff's theories about reverie, reflection, and migrant rationality to rethink the crossroads in the writing center between individual desires and disciplinary ideals. Examines the situations of four graduate students who find themselves contained or restricted by the limitations of discourse in their disciplines. Discusses how…

Examines how and why the American academy has employed the social construct of gender in defining the writing center as a site where caring education is promoted according to a cultural ideal of "women's work." Draws on the author's encounters with feminist philosophy, academic professionalism, psycho-sociolinguistics, and child development…

Demonstrates how fairly distinctive and long-standing writing center philosophy and practice are reflected in the portfolio method of assessment. Argues that the immediate value of demonstrating a consistency between writing center philosophy and portfolio assessment is that clues for refining and improving the use of portfolios lie in writing…

Argues that it is possible and desirable for writing tutors, acting out their role in classroom tutoring programs rather than in writing center programs, to play the dual role of teacher and tutor. Maintains that classroom tutoring projects have the potential to help educators practice the art of translating different philosophies, practices, and…