Update on Writing Supports Consultations

In August 2016, Vice-Provost and Dean of Students André Costopoulos and I began a conversation with faculty, staff, and students to learn more about the various efforts taking place across our campuses to support writers and writing at the University of Alberta.

Over the past five months, we have met with over 200 people in 13 small group meetings and four town halls. We have also received online feedback from more than 75 people since September. Through the process, we have heard from all of the major constituency groups, including those involved in teaching and/or researching writing, as well as those providing and accessing writing supports and services.

The consultation process broadened and deepened our understanding of the diversity and quality of writing initiatives across the university. Many different perspectives and viewpoints emerged, but there was consensus on at least one point: the need for better coordination and promotion of existing services. So we have immediately begun to work on an online portal to ensure better visibility for the excellent teaching, research, and service supports that exist across the U of A.

However, there is more to do. With the main consultation nearly complete, we are now convening a small working group who will review the feedback and prepare a report. They will be asked to make recommendations on how to enhance, better coordinate and optimize writing activities and supports at the university. The components and dimensions that will be considered include all types of writing services for students, writing pedagogy and learning, as well as writing scholarship and research. A draft of the working group’s report will be presented for feedback at two more town halls in March. Online consultation will also be sought. The goal is to present the final report at General Faculties Council in April, 2017.

We would like to thank all those who took the time to share their thoughts with us over the past few months. We invite you to stay engaged. We will continue to look to your insight and support as the working group prepares their recommendations and report.

If you haven’t already done so, we encourage you to submit your ideas and recommendations.The online consultation form remains open until December 21, 2016. We are also happy to receive your messages directly at wendy.rodgers@ualberta.ca and andre.costopoulos@ualberta.ca.

Thank you,

Wendy Rodgers
Deputy Provost