Eberly Center

Writing and Communication Resource Unification on a Mobile App

Calton, R.

This talk illustrates the development and deployment of a mobile web app serving to unify supplemental learning resources found across the First-Year Writing Program at CMU in a collaborative, digital environment. The primary function of the app is to centralize an accessible repository of instructional content (handouts, guidelines, models, etc.) found both at the Global Communications Center and within the first-year writing courses, while embedding that content within a conversational space where students, faculty, and tutors can build knowledge in a digital community of practice. The content itself is “mobilized.” For instance, a five-page handout is distilled to fit on a smartphone’s screen, attached to a social space like a chat, and linked to the full handout. Users can not only connect with each other through collaborative spaces attached to the instructional content, but also quickly access offline resources like GCC tutorials and other writing support services across campus.

Robert Calton, English DC, Provost’s Office