This fall, U-M will test whether an automated text analysis tool can help integrate more writing into large introductory science courses without imposing significant new time constraints. The tool is the latest addition to M-Write, a program run by the Gayle Morris Sweetland Center for Writing.
Anne R. Gere, professor of English language and literature who serves as director of the writing center, admits that using the word “automated” in a conversation about writing instruction can be controversial. “Perhaps because I’m a humanist, I always think technology needs to have a human element as well,” Gere said. “This is the place where the humanities and sciences can come together to create better learning for students across the curriculum.”
M-Write combines automation with human oversight to lead students through writing assignments in which they draft, receive peer feedback, revise, and resubmit. The program already uses automation for peer review, but oversees the process with writing fellows—former students who excelled in the class. Michigan has funded M-Write with a $1.8 million grant, aiming to bring the program to 10,000 students by 2021.
