WARC NEWS

Tutor Interview: Aidai Anvarbek kyzy on “Writing to Teach You: Theory and Practice of Composition Pedagogy”

November 21, 2019

Interested in becoming a writing tutor at the WARC? All prospective writing tutors MUST take Prof. Nicholas Walmsley’s “Writing to Teach You: Theory and Practice of Composition Pedagogy” (SYS / HUM - 262, M/W 9:35-10:40) before applying. This writing-intensive course is designed for advanced student writers who want to deepen their understanding of composition, rhetoric, and grammar, and then bridge the gap from composition to instruction as peer tutors. Topics will include composition theory, grammar and its role in the service of meaning and rhetoric, and revision in both theory and practice. Note that this course is cross-listed as a Second-Year Seminar.

Aidai Anvarbek kyzy, who joined our team of writing tutors this year, has a number of positive reflections to share about her experience with the course.

1. Has tutoring at the WARC been a rewarding experience so far?

By helping students with their assignments, I am learning myself. Tutoring at WARC is mutually beneficial both for the tutee and the tutor since the tutor gets the experience and the student gets the help. WARC is an amazing platform for me where I can meet many outstanding students with bright ideas. Every hour I spend at WARC help me to concentrate on the writing process and be engaged with students' lives. 

2. How did the Theory and Practice of Composition Pedagogy course prepare you for your duties as a WARC writing tutor?

Tutoring at WARC requires special background and tutoring knowledge. This class is an indispensable component of becoming an experienced peer tutor. This course introduces the basics of pedagogy and tutoring skills. Moreover, this course examined each aspect of the writing process starting from brainstorming and finishing with developing ideas. By reading specific articles on improving the performance and the competence of a tutor, I prepared myself for the WARC. The crux of this course is that it provides information on how to deal with the different types of students and multiple tasks that may occur during the tutoring practicum.

3. Do you think the Theory and Practice of Composition Pedagogy course was a worthwhile investment of your time and energy?

Undoubtedly, all those months of taking the class paid off when I successfully completed my first tutoring session. During that course, I learn how to turn my knowledge and skills into something meaningful and helpful for students. 

4. What advice can you offer to students who are considering taking the course?

In order to become a professional in the area one desires, a person should spend thousands of hours practicing. I decided to spend my first hours of becoming a professional writer on a course that aimed to inculcate in students a professional attitude and skills. This course is extremely necessary and valuable for becoming an experienced tutor.

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