Using the Journal Assignment to Create Empowered Learners: An Application of Writing Across the Curriculum
Abstract
The authors describe the journal writing assignment they used to create a challenging, stimulating class that increased students' feelings of ownership, self-efficacy, and motivation. They discuss how the assignment can empower students to become responsible for their own learning in a variety of academic disciplines. First, the authors explain why a journal assignment is desirable, what they mean by empowerment, and why they advocate this strategy. Next, they discuss the three components of a model journal entry and their criteria for the journal assignment. Finally, they describe applications of journal writing for empowerment across several academic disciplines, specifically, in English, management, study skills, and communication courses.
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