This presentation focused on rethinking the work of a writing center online, mixing writing center writing by Nancy Grimm and Information Studies writing by Paul Resnick and Chris Anderson. I discussed the two prevailing models of writing center work: 1-to-many and 1-to-1.  I identified that current problems and solutions for online writing centers have been filtered through one of these two communication models. I introduced a third model, many-to-many, which is unique to online space. 

I connected this conversation to the Nancy Grimm’s piece “Re-articulating the work of the writing center,” [1996] exploring the ideas that: there is a triangular relationship between student, writing center and institution, also, the writing center acts as a normalizing agent of the “distortion of communication” and “cultural assumptions” that takes place at the institution, and that writing centers are in a unique place to challenge the distortion that is taking place. 

I introduced the concept of the long-tail [Chris Anderson], suggesting that physical writing centers are bounded by space-time limitations, which filter both the problems and solutions that are focused on into one’s that capture the most people.  This is problematic for all the niche groups of people whose numbers are not great enough to demand attention.  Online however, without the same space-time limits, these niche audiences can potentially be served.  I connected this back to Grimm, adding to her concept of “distortion” is actually part of the long-tail as well.

My argument is that using online tools that support a many-to-many model of communication allow a writing center to rethink their ability to articulate the distortion around writing in a way not available in a physical environment. 

We finished by revisting Grimm’s concern that by continuing to be silent about the “contradiction that occurs,” writing centers will continue to be in a “subordinate and silenced position.”

We discussed several many-to-many tools the MSU Writing Center is experimenting with currently including blogs, wikis and forums.