An Evolution from Modernity to Post-Modernity

Outcomes

You will understand:The history of the writing center in American

colleges and universitiesThe major political forces that shaped

writing centers Modernist versus postmodernist

perspectives on writing center workMajor issues that have historically affected

writing centers

Early History

Writing centers date back to the late 1800s on college and university campuses.

Roots in student literary societies Declined in popularity during the mid-

20th century Enjoyed a resurgence during the 1970s

with open admission policies

Discussion Question

Why would open admissions policies at colleges and universities be linked to a resurgence in writing centers?

Historical Tensions

Writing Centers have suffered ongoing misperceptions by students and faculty as “grammar garages”

Instructors have viewed Writing Centers with mistrust

Students have viewed Writing Centers as a service for remedial students