Introduction to the study and to each other

Though I have already spoken to each of you about the study, I want to stress, like any professional development opportunity, that you will get as much out of this process as you put in. The goal is to help you to help your students become more successful writers.

I'm so happy that all of you have decided to both grow within your discipline and to help others grow as well. You are all at different stages within your teaching and with your comfort level providing feedback to students and to colleagues. So, I want to begin this research study by encouraging you to introduce yourself through your practice (while remaining anonymous).

Please answer the following questions. A sentence or two for each is fine, but feel free to elaborate on any of the questions:

(Remember to remain anonymous, so please do not mention any names or the name of your school)

1. What do your students struggle with most in regards to writing?
2. What is your biggest challenge in helping your students to improve their writing?
3. Why do students benefit (or not benefit) from receiving a teacher's feedback on their writing?
4. What is the most significant challenge in regards to providing students with helpful feedback?