Problem Statement
Many institutions do not have ―ESL writing specialists‖ on staff and the needs of
the NNES students are often ignored, leading to difficulties in student achievement.
Writing centers, which may be the only support services available to tutor and assist these
students, will be better equipped to help these students if there is an understanding of the
needs and expectations of this population.
I have been an English as a Second Language (ESL) instructor for over 15 years
and most recently have seen international undergraduate and graduate students at a small,
private college struggle with the language and limited support the campus provided. At
other schools, I have seen students struggle with no support at all. Often, these students
will be directed to the writing center as a ―quick fix‖ for their English language needs,
and in turn, I have seen the frustration of tutors in area writing centers and writing labs
when they are asked to assist these students with their writing.