Blog 9: Hitt, Nan, O'Leary

 Summary

    In her article, Hitt mainly talks about the application of Universal Design (UD) and Universal Design for Learning (UDL). Universal Design is the design of products that will accommodate a broader range of people, including those who are disabled. Universal Design for Learning rejects the idea that there is a one-size-fits-all approach to learning and teaching and supports ways that are “flexible, multiple, and adjustable.” When UD and UDL are not implicated, it makes the disabled students feel different in a negative and, oftentimes, makes the tutors feel as if they must treat the students differently because they are disabled.

    O'Leary discusses the difference in gender within writing centers for tutors and clients. The study mentions how male vs female behaviors differ whether the conversation is informal or formal. "Conversation structures," as O'Leary call, can also be based on how well the people know each other, personality type (whether they are outgoing or introverted), status, whether it's between peers or with a superior, and more. Writing conferences are considered to be formal events as they are between student and tutor. In the study, the session with the female student consistent of a tone that was more supportive, whereas with the male student, the tone was more conflictive and uninterested.

    Nan's article focuses on the reoccurring problems within writing center tutoring sessions, specifically Chinese students who are learning English and offers solutions. Some of the problems come from tutors not being aware of cultural difference. For example, Nan says that many Chinese ELL students had different writing standards in high school with limited exposure to the English language. Some solutions she suggests for tutors is find out the comfort level of the student, be aware of body language, being honest and direct, and more. These strategies can apply to any ELL students, not just Chinese students.

Comment

    For some reason, it didn't surprise me in O'Leary's article when the female students worked better with the female tutor. I think sometimes, when men get help from women, it makes them feel less then, or maybe a bit pathetic, even though they shouldn't feel that way. From what I've seen and witnessed in all areas of life, men feel more comfortable getting help from men. Perhaps it feels more causal and comfortable between two men.

Question

    Is it common at CNU for female students to want female tutors and male students to want male tutors?