Throughout the reading, Williams discusses the process approach of writing and introduces the significant idea of having student-centered instruction. He states that there are three key factors provided and implemented by the teacher that are used in order to improve student writing. They include "(a) asking students to write often, in meaningful contexts, (b) providing frequent feedback on work in progress, and (c) requiring numerous revisions based on that feedback" (p.101). As teachers, is it a good idea to focus on these three factors for our students' writing improvement? What are the benefits of being continually active with your students during the writing process as well as providing a student-centered learning environment?
Personally, when I first read these three factors that are described in student-centered instruction, it reminded me of my writing instruction throughout elementary school (and somewhat into middle school). My former teachers were very active with my classmates and myself during a writing assignment. There were weekly to bi-weekly conferences with my teacher, peer revisions and conferences which were also known as "writing workshops". By having my teacher involved throughout the writing process, I was able to write and gain feedback which helped me understand and improve my writing.
Because of my experiences with this type of learning, I would agree that teachers, especially at a young grade, should engage in the instruction of these three factors. Students do not write enough during daytime instruction these days and by allowing them to write and consistently meet with them, it allows you to see their progress individually and assess their writing ability. In return, this benefits you because you will be able to see the improvements that certain students need and allows you to meet and work with them on a one-on-one basis.
By providing "writing workshops" and student interactions in the classroom, it also allows student feedback and to practice peer editing and revision. Students will take a more active role in learning by applying their writing knowledge and skills in a more interactive way where they are able to be the teacher and help their peers.
Overall, I believe that this way of teaching is an effective tool for student learning. Too many times are students asked to write and go through the stages of writing alone. These learning technique allows them to gain an understanding of everything that is incorporated in writing by discussing with their teacher and their peers, which in the long-run helps improve their writing.
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I agree that student-centered instruction is very important. As I talked about in my blog, I was taught this way and I feel that it contributed to my love for writing. By having teachers actively involved throughout the writing process, students are able to write and gain feedback, which ultimately yields better writing.
ReplyDeleteThe three factors mentioned within the text are certainly beneficial within the classroom. Students must practice these, but they also must be taught the importance of these steps. Instead of simply instructing students to follow them, teachers need to explain the value of these three factors; that is, understand the importance of writing in an effort to become a better writer yourself.
To answer your initial questions- it is not only beneficial but more than likely necessary for teachers to be actively involved in the writing process of their students. Student-Centered Instruction allows for a creative process development that brings teachers to learn how their individual students learn to and practice writing. So often when learning any new technique the learner feels alone or confused. By providing direction, teachers can help students build confidence in their capabilities and skills.
ReplyDeleteBy asking students to write often in a variety of contexts, students are able to explore the different realms and topics of writing. By giving students many outlets for writing they can write about what they want instead of being forced exclusively into research papers and literary reviews. Feedback and revisions are important because students need to see their work from various perspectives and on multiple occasions in order to find errors and room for improvement