Use of Computer Technology for Writing Consultations: Tutors’ Opinions and Implications

Abstract

This chapter investigates the use of computer technology for writing consultations from the tutors’ perspective. Tutors’ opinions of the hybrid (i.e., a combination of face-to-face and virtual consultations) and the virtual consultation modes in an English writing enhancement service in a university in Hong Kong were collected. Questionnaires were administered to 10 tutors who had used the two consultation modes. It was found that the majority of the tutors were in favor of the two modes, and that they appreciated the benefits of online writing consultations and the text-only consultation platform design. However, they also expressed reservations about replacing the traditional face-to-face writing consultations with computers, because they could not see much increase in tutee-tutor interactions via the two consultation modes. In light of their opinions, recommendations are made to improve the text-only consultation platform and to develop tutors’ professional knowledge and pedagogies for online writing consultations.