What is it?


Embedded Multiliteracy Tutors
(EMTs) are Writing & Multiliteracy Center tutors who are assigned to work closely with students in a specific course (usually upper-division, writing intensive and/or communication intensive course). The objective is to be the “go to” or dedicated tutor for the class whenever it is possible, because the tutor has learned about the assignment and course goals in advance. However, because of challenges with schedules, students in courses with EMTs are encouraged to work with any tutor in the WMC if their EMT is not available. EMTs often work with students who work on group projects, so EMTs also help students manage group dynamics, time management, and focus on their project.  EMTs can work with courses that are asynchronous, live in person or live online.

During tutorials outside of class, EMTs work with students whose assignments in the course can include a range of communication projects (essays, research posters, presentations, videos). EMTs may provide:

  • pitches (to connect early with students in the class): this could be delivered in person, virtually, and/or recorded.
  • synchronous tutorial sessions (one-to-one or with groups) on writing, presentations, or other multiliteracy projects (in person or virtually)
  • asynchronous tutoring through Voicethread Feedback (one-to-one or groups)
  • general reports (if requested) of patterns and trouble spots of students' work as seen in tutorials
  • short workshops (making the most out of tutorial sessions, peer review, plagiarism, and possibly other custom workshops): in person, virtually, or recorded
  • videotape presentations and offer feedback on presentations in class or outside class:  in person (in the WMC multiliteracy studio) or virtually
  • feedback on videotaped recordings during tutorial sessions:  in person or virtually
  • course-specific Writing Boot Camps: virtually
  • reserved tutoring hours for the EMT course
  • customized support if it is possible

Best practices of using EMTs

EMT program works best when faculty are willing to:

  • Provide a meeting with the EMT to communicate priorities and objects of the course clearly
  • Stay in touch with the EMT through the semester (receiving feedback and giving feedback at mid term and at the end of the semester)
  • Provide EMTs with sufficient time to respond to changes of course assignments, or new needs
  • Consider providing substantial face-to-face interactions between EMTs and students in the class
  • Understand the limitations of the EMTs (may not be able to meet with all students across multiple sections of classes; may be a student of a different discipline) as well as the potentials of EMTS (relate assignments in a way a student might understand, offer backchannel feedback of how students are responding to assignments, etc.)
  • Be imaginative in how EMTs might help students in writing and/or communicating
  • Inform your students:  share Introduction to the EMT (web information) with your students.

Request an EMT

The Faculty Director reviews requests for EMTs based on a variety of factors, including availability of tutors, need, and efficient use of EMTs. Requests should be made a month before the start of the semester. To make a request, please submit a request form. If you have any questions, please contact the Faculty Director of the Writing & Multiliteracy Center (Dr. Sohui Lee).

Back to Top ↑
©