Re: How much is too much?

[Peggy_Ellington@post.wesleyan-college.edu (Peggy Ellington)]

When I was doing some research in the writing lab at my former institution, I
asked permission to tape sessions.  My focus was on how well the student
assessed his or her own writing, but as I began the loathsome transcription
process, I discovered how often the student had no chance to find or strengthen
weak areas because the tutor was directive in his or her efforts to do the job.
 I asked a few of the tutors to review the tapes with me, and they immediately
noticed the same situations and set about modifying their approaches to
tutoring sessions.  You might ask those concerned to tape their sessions, so
they would have a sense of when they offer too much guidance or not enough.  It
might also serve to highlight positive aspects of the session.  The tutees, of
course, would have to agree, but generally if they understand the focus of the
taping, they don't have much trouble with the idea.

					Peg Ellington