Author: Lynda Boudreault, Joseph Moser

Date: 1 December 2007

PDF: 080218-2.pdf (167K, 4 pages, no images)

Series Number: 080218-2-->

Keywords: Second Life, identity, language, gender

Abstract: Students in classrooms always carry with them markers of identity that embody social distinctions—dialect, skin color, clothes, gendered features—that compel them to make judgments about the identities of others (as well as their own). The use of Second Life (SL) as a virtual classroom is envisioned as a space where students can examine topics of gender and language identity. SL fosters an environment where real-life markers of identity are mitigated and potentially neutralized, allowing students to focus on issues of language and gender without being influenced by variables such as dialect, clothes, skin color, and other physical features. Although SL is generally an unpredictable environment, unanticipated scenarios create the opportunity for students to share and compare widely divergent experiences, which contribute to a pool of information useful for research projects.

Author: Clay Spinuzzi

Date: 18 Feb 2008

PDF: 080218-1.pdf (183K, 9 pages, no images)

Keywords: knowledge work, contextual inquiry

Abstract: How do office staff work cooperatively in an academic department? In particular, how do they communicate with faculty, students, alumni, and each other; manage their time and projects; and coordinate work with collaborators? In this informal study, I apply knowledge work concepts from a previous CWRL white paper to a naturalistic study of office staff. Findings indicate that staff are dealing with many knowledge work concerns (communication, time and project management, coordination), but in an ad hoc fashion. Problems are exacerbated by a recent geographic split among office staff, and the staff are still finding ways to work across that split. The white paper concludes with suggestions for dealing with these issues in a more coherent and effective fashion.

Author: Gavin Benke, Sarah Jett, Will Martin

Date: 14 May 2007

PDF: 070514-1.pdf (116K, 5 pages)

Series Number: 070514-1-->

Keywords: pedagogy, assignments, CWRL

Abstract: This paper describes and analyzes the eFiles assignment database as it stands at the end of the Spring 2007 semester. Additionally, it offers strategies for improving the database and increasing its visibility.

Author: Peter Gunn, Thomas J. Nelson, Arlen Nydam, Kevin Psonak

Date: 1 February 2007

PDF: 070201-1.pdf (600K, 11 pages, 5 images)

Series Number: 070201-1-->

Keywords: professionalization, teaching portfolio, web sites, CWRL

Abstract: This white paper outlines strategies for effectively integrating CWRL experience into job search documents. Since most CWRL staffers do not specialize in computers and writing, we will address ways that non-specialists can apply lab experience to their specific situations. When effectively presented, lab experience can strengthen such documents as job letters, curriculum vitae, teaching portfolios, statements of teaching philosophy, and personal web sites.

Author: Catherine Bacon, Ingrid Devilliers, Greg Foran, Kay Hetherly, Anna Katsnelson, Lena Khor

Date: 19 January 2007

PDF: 070119-2.pdf (161K, 11 pages, no images)

Series Number: 070119-2-->

Keywords: grants, funding

Abstract: This paper offers advice for graduate students seeking grant funding, specifically in the fields of writing and technology. While the information presented is specifically relevant for University of Texas students, the advice offered by experienced grant seekers applies to anyone who has an interest in learning about the process of grant writing.

Author: Lynda Boudreault, Jeffery Howard, Noah Mass, Anthony Matteo, Joseph Moser, Malavika Shetty, Vessela Valiavitcharska, Wooseong Yeom

Date: 19 January 2007

PDF: 070119-1.pdf (137K, 10 pages, no images)

Series Number: 070119-1-->

Keywords: Rhetoric, Game, Game Design, Quest, Neverwinter Nights, Aurora Toolset

Abstract: Rhetorical Peaks is a video game designed for use in a freshman-level rhetoric and writing class. The game puts its player in the role of an undergraduate student whose rhetoric professor has died mysteriously. The player’s tasks are to explore the town of Rhetorical Peaks, interact with a variety of characters, and gather evidence to be used in a causal argument about the death of the professor. On the way to gathering evidence about the professor's death, the player will be presented with a number of challenges that will require the player to practice some of the basic rhetorical skills that the class has studied throughout the semester. We hope that the student players of Rhetorical Peaks will see that there is not one absolutely certain solution to the problem that the game presents, but rather an intriguing variety of possible arguments that they can make about that problem.

Author: Will Martin

Date: 28 September 2006

PDF: 060928-1.pdf (125K, 7 pages, no images)

Keywords: customization, software

Abstract: CWRL computers are on a "mirrored" system. This allows for quick software updates and ease of control by system administrators. However, it also makes it difficult for individual users to customize the settings on CWRL computers. This whitepaper addresses the issue of customization by offering one way to customize CWRL PCs.

Author: Clay Spinuzzi

Date: 25 September 2006

PDF: 060925-1.pdf (125K, 7 pages, no images)