This chapter is another of the more theoretical sections of the book. It will work well as an introduction to some of the principles behind our focus on collaborative learning. For a computers and writing class, Chapter Ten can also serve as a launching point for discussions about the possibilities for collaborative work that have been opened up by electronic technologies.
Note: Like the "For Class discussions" in the book, this discussion has a message forum set up on the Connections Web site where students can talk about these issues.
Hold a class discussion about some of the different writing conventions of various academic departments. For instance, how are the expectations for an English paper different from a history paper? An engineering paper? As an instructor, it might be valuable to introduce and discuss some of the issues surrounding Writing Across the Curriculum programs. What types of writing concerns are shared regardless of discipline? Should all writing be judged on the same set of criteria? Is there such a thing as one "correct" form of writing?
Instructors who are interested in reading more in-depth rhetorical theory on collaboration might try reading either of these two texts.