Variations in Support for Second Language Writers: Lessons from Top International Student Destination

Designing support for second language writers is a complex socially-situated process. My dissertation examines the various factors that impact that process. This study is motivated by two goals: (1) to paint a broad picture of university-level second language writing support across the United States, and (2) to illuminate the factors that influence the differences in the design of second language writing support. Using a sample of the 40 most popular universities for international enrollment, I collected data from school web pages to construct a broad view of the second language writing requirements and accommodations. I also conducted interviews with 10 representatives from writing programs across the country in an attempt to understand the factors that impact the design of writing support. The findings from the research suggest that factors such as politics and expertise play important parts in the implementation of second language writing support. Implications for writing program administrators are discussed.