OWLS in flight: online writing labs for distance learning

The online writing lab (or OWL) has emerged in the past decade as a major use of technology for the student; however, rarely does it serve the distance learner. The paper considers: (1) the needs of distance learners for academic support systems, (2) the failure of these services to be extended to technology-dependent students, and (3) the advantage of technology-mediated writing tutorials over face-to face tutorials. This topic demonstrates one instance in which technology-mediated instruction is advantageous, not compensatory, for distance students. It feeds a major concern (writing competence) in many schools as seen in remedial programs and Writing Across the Curriculum initiatives