For Faculty> Getting Started / Frequently Asked Questions

1. Does the writing center hold workshops?
   The Writing Center can hold workshops on any pertinent topic as the need arises and as resources allow. All workshops are designed in accordance with our Writing Center philosophies and policies (e.g., We do not offer a generic "common writing problems" workshop for individual classes.) If you are interested in developing a customized workshop, contact Writing Center administrators. Any general workshops that are offered will be posted on this web site.

2. Can I require my classes to visit the writing center for a particular assignment?
   The Writing Center strongly discourages instructors from requiring students and/or entire classes to visit the center. Individuals who are required to come in often bring a negative attitude to the session and will see it as punishment. When classes are required to come, the majority of the students will wait until the last day or two to make appointments or walk in, and the Writing Center is not staffed to handle this influx of students. We suggest including information about the Writing Center on your syllabus and recommending our services to your students.

3. Does the writing center offer specialized assistance for ESL writers?
   Our center serves a large number of non-native English writers each semester. Click here to read more about our approach to and resources available for the special needs of these clients.
   
   
4. Will I get feedback from the writing center about my students who use it?
   Consultants will complete an electronic form for each session that identifies the student, class, instructor, and what was addressed during the session. In accordance with FERPA and the Writing Center's mission, this report is no longer automatically sent to instructors; however, students always have the option to request a printed copy of the report and are encouraged to share that report with their instructor. A student's Writing Center file is confidential, and students always have the right to deny information about the session to outside parties.
   
   
5. What can I do to make my students' sessions most productive?
   a) It is always useful for the Writing Center to have copies of class assignments on file. If you provide copies of your writing assignments to us at any time during the semester, we will keep them on file and be able to access them when your students come to the Writing Center. Click here to find out how to submit your assignments.
   b) Please encourage your students to visit the Writing Center but do not require them to visit. Students who are forced to come often resent the time they spend at the Writing Center and those sessions tend to be the least productive.
   c) Please indicate on research assignments which documentation format you prefer students to use or clear guidelines for a customized format. Think closely and be explicit about specifics such as whether you prefer footnotes to parenthetical references. We will consult the most current edition of MLA or APA unless otherwise specified on the assignment or syllabus.
   
   
6. Can consultants help me with using MS Word and other word processing softwares?
   Writing Center consultants are not trained to handle software questions or teach you how to use common softwares. A consultant will usually be happy to assist you with basic questions if he/she feels comfortable doing so, but you should contact ASU's Information Technology Services for computer and software assistance.