Writing Across the Curriculum

What is WAC?

What is Writing Across the Curriculum (WAC)?

What are the major premises of WAC?

writing is a way of critical thinking
writing is a process of making decisions and evaluating the effectiveness of those decisions through drafting, feedback, and revision opportunities
writing is a tool for learning
writing is a performance-based skill
writing occurs in a context

What are the primary goals of Longview's WAC Program?

to provide professional development opportunities for faculty to acquaint them with WAC philosophy and strategies
to provide individual consultation and ongoing support for faculty members as they experiment with new strategies and ideas in their courses

How does WAC work at Longview?

Introductory WAC Workshops

introduction to basic WAC theories and strategies in a workshop setting
presumes no previous knowledge of WAC
faculty training component: workshops, group meetings, forums to discuss best practices and additional topics ("What Works Forums")

Individual Consultation with WAC Coordinator

Writing Fellows Program

program designed to support instructors experimenting with applying WAC strategies to their courses and assignments
supports students in those courses by providing a peer coach dedicated to their class
offers opportunity for high achieving students with strong written and interpersonal communications skills to serve as peer coach for students in individual conference settings
creates unique mentoring relationship between Writing Fellows and instructors

Writing Intensive Program

provides lower student-teacher ratio (class cap of 28)
focuses on consistently using writing as a tool for learning
permits more opportunity for instructor feedback on student work in drafts of projects and informal writing
encourages students to value revision by reflecting on writing decisions, determining their effectiveness, and making appropriate changes if necessary
provides support for faculty and opportunities to confer with colleagues