CONVERSATIONS ON COLLABORATION: GRADUATE STUDENTS AS WRITING PROGRAM ADMINISTRATORS IN THE WRITING CENTER

Author

Jennifer M. Hewerdine, Southern Illinois University Carbondale

Date of Award

8-2017

Degree Name

Doctor of Philosophy

Department

English

First Advisor

McClure, Lisa J.

Second Advisor

Dively, Ronda L.

Third Advisor

Cogie, Jane

Abstract

This research sought to ascertain through a phenomenological approach whether and how collaboration occurs in writing center administration. The reflections and perceptions of former writing center gWPAs provided insight into a variety of institutional contexts and experiences present in writing center collaboration. The participants perceived themselves as learning skills that have helped them succeed in faculty, administrative, and personal situations. But there is more than these interpersonal developments in their stories; they see their writing center collaboration as necessary for the daily work of the writing center and for their success in carrying out daily tasks as gWPAs and administrators. Despite some of the participants believing they could have been more immersed in the politics of the institution or even more immersed in the collaborative work of the writing center, they nevertheless credit their experiences with a deeper understanding of the institutional structure and writing center work. Additionally, they report transferring their learning from administrative collaboration to aspects of their life and career outside of the writing center.