Online Writing Center

Join us online!

The Online Writing Center provides writers with 45-minute sessions where you can communicate in real time with a Writing Center consultant through WCOnline, our online scheduler. When scheduling your session, make sure you choose "Yes-Schedule Online Appointment" under the "Meet Online?" question. When it is time to join your online session, you will simply click the red words "Start or Join Online Consultation" using WCOnline.

The Online Writing Center now has audio/visual capabilities in addition to chat features!

If the device you are using to join the Online Writing Center has audio/visual capabilities, we encourage you to use this feature! On the toolbar, you can click on the camera icon to allow the consultant to hear and/or see you. The first time you use audio/video, your browser may prompt you to allow the use of your camera and microphone in your session. If you don't have audio/visual capabilities, don't worry! You can use the area to the right of the screen to have a text conversation in real time.

Online Writing Center Tips and Features:

Start your session on time. Call the Writing Center at 615-904-8237 if you are having trouble joining your online session.
If you have a document you will be using during the online session, you can import or paste it to the whiteboard. Changes made to text in this window are highlighted and seen immediately by both individuals participating in the online consultation.
Get to know the toolbar and drawing tools. The icons on the left side of the toolbar allow you to work with a document's formatting. The icons on the right side (or at the bottom if using a phone) include options for your online session, such as importing or exporting a document.
After your session, your chat transcript (if using the chat feature) and document will be saved in this online meeting. You can always come back by viewing your appointment and clicking the "Start or Join Online Consultation" link.

Commonly Asked Questions

I'm working on project, but it isn't for an English class. Can I still use the University Writing Center?

Of course! The UWC is here for all levels of writers from all disciplines and fields all stages; of the writing process.

Can you teach me how to use Adobe Illustrator or Photoshop?

Our focus is on your work rather than on the technology used to create it, and we don't claim to be experts in design software. However, in some cases, having some expertise in the software can greatly help with brainstorming or revision. Luckily, the Library's Digital Media Studio is here to help. If software expertise is required, part of your UWC session could be spent collaborating with the knowledgeable staff of the DMS.

I don't have an appointment. Can I work on my project in the UWC anyway?

UWC computers are reserved first for writing sessions. We will always work with you to find a time to meet with a UWC Consultant, whether in the Multimedia Composition Center or the Writers' Studio. You are welcome to stay and work for a short time after your session or until the computer is needed. There are plenty of computer labs on campus if you don't have an appointment and need a place to work.

Can I drop my project off before my appointment so that you can review it before my session?

We find that it is best to review the project at the beginning of your session for a few important reasons:

Reviewing your work alongside an audience can help you see your work from a different perspective.
Reviewing your work together allows the Writing Consultant to ask questions or ask for clarification, as needed.
Reviewing your work during the session ensures that you and the Writing Consultant are working with the most up-to-date draft.

Why don't you offer proofreading?

Our mission is to help writers strengthen their skills and become more confident and independent. We don't offer proofreading and editing services because we want you, the writer, to always be a part of the conversation about your text. Additionally, proofreading and editing are often about recognizing patterns in a piece of writing. Being able to recognize patterns in your writing will lead you to become a stronger, more independent writer.