As a writing tutor, my goal is to help each writer with his or her specific objectives while encouraging the writer’s independence and growth in the writing process. This requires a friendly, supportive, conversational approach that is guided by practical advice where needed. Because every writer and project is different, I try to be flexible in my approach while maintaining a commitment to the idea of collaborative learning.
To establish a positive rapport, I try to greet writers with a smile and invite them into the conference room. I ask about their current project, its stage of development, and the areas in which the writer would like to focus. Together, we review any relevant material and discuss its strengths, as well as areas for improvement. As we talk about the project, I try to help the writer address his or her own concerns by asking clarifying questions, providing a reader’s perspective, and offering general writing advice where appropriate.
Although I provide feedback to the writer, it is very important to me that the writer maintain sole ownership of his or her work. To that end, I try to take a non-directive approach whenever possible. At times, however, I am asked questions or encounter patterns in the text that lend themselves to teaching moments. Whenever this occurs, I try to handle it by presenting options and guidelines and engaging the writer in a discussion of the choices.
Ultimately, as a tutor it is my job to support the writer—not only by offering feedback and asking questions, but also by showing enthusiasm for the writer’s project. I try to communicate that enthusiasm by using a friendly, conversational approach throughout the session, as well as by providing positive reinforcement and words of encouragement. I genuinely enjoy talking to writers about their ideas and the writing process, and it is my hope that that my tutoring philosophy and practice reflect that.
