Iron Maiden

Last week in our English 490 class, we got into groups in order to create what we believed to be the perfect tutor. Our "Super Tutor" was modeled after Iron Man while somehow earning the "midwife" label; thus, the Iron Maiden was born.

The first attribute we all agreed on was patience. No-brainer. This virtue is important for several reasons as session will not always go according to plan. The key is is remain calm while looking for ways in which you can implement your tutoring strategy.

Second, was a strong knowledge of grammar rules. This too is a pretty obvious choice as seemingly everyone expects to see a roomful of grammarians when venturing into the writing center. Admittedly, I do not possess a strong grasp of its rules, though I am (somewhat) awate of its importance (sort of).

The next choice was strong writing skills. Surely, all tutors would have strong writing skills. Otherwise, they have little place in the writing center. However, confidence with writing can reflect in the work of clients as well. I think if these skills are evident, then the tutor will be drawn to a particular consultant.

For our fourth choice, I think we were split between two attributes: lots of writing strategies and an understanding of the writing process. Personally, I find these to be very similar. Both require the consultant to be aware of various ways in which you can begin a paper. More importantly, this creates an improved approach to writing. In some ways, the writing process begins long before the writer ever picks up a pen or sits down to a keyboard. It begins with thought, which is greatly associated with strategies and processess.

Lastly, a sense of humor. Consultants must be able to laugh at themselves from time to time. Also, it allows the client to feel at ease. This helps alleviate some of the stresses and possible embarassment that may surround a client for visiting the writing center.

Overall, I think our tutor is well-rounded. With the exception of being a grammar wiz, I feel that each attribute is not only to be aspired for, but must be mandated to some extent. Certainly, no one is perfect. But as tutors, we should strive toward being as useful as possible.