What we did in class, September 8

For our first class, we introduced ourselves, went over the syllabus and the calendar, and talked about the course blog and IRB training. Most importantly, we got started on thinking about what makes good learning happen. You told stories about times when you had a good experience with learning - and we identified features of those experiences and listed them on the board. Your stories were strong examples of what motivates and sustains learners as do the scary work that accompanies trying to do something new. Features we noticed were: having concrete examples (with lots of different examples); having assurance, encouragement, and models (predictable routines and patterns); having connections to the learner's interest and motivation; good listening; getting step-by-step information about process (how to do something instead of what needs to be done); getting help with stepping back so the learner can "see" his or her self (like when Daniela's father video-taped her); working on a team and having opportunities to practice; getting one-on-one feedback; being able to ask questions - and some that I forgot.

Features of learning that are most important will vary from learner to learner and from situation to situation - but this list provides us with a good place to start thinking about how writing coaches can support learners as they work on their writing.

For next class:
Take the IRB training (linked from the right side of this page)and send me a copy of your certificate.

Read: in McAndrew and Reigstad, 8-21

Those of you who have laptops - bring them to class. I will see what I can do to get computers for the 5 students who said they do not have access to a laptop. In class you will set up your blogs, and we will continue writing and thinking about how writing centers and general - and writing coaches in particular- can support writers.

Thanks for your good participation in tonight's class. I am looking forward to working with each of you.