The Duke Writing in the Disciplines program and Office of Alumni Affairs are collaborating to bring current Duke students together with Duke Alumni and employees in a unique and educational experiment. The Reader Project offers students the opportunity to get feedback on a class writing assignment from members of the broader Duke community who have professional experience relevant to their assignments.

Getting feedback from readers outside of the classroom setting is not only a great source of motivation; it can help students learn to anticipate the needs and expectations of readers, and to revise their writing to make it more effective for the intended audience. By participating in the Reader Project, members of the broader Duke community can play a direct role in helping our students develop the communication and reasoning skills that are so important for their success in both professional and civic life.

The time commitment for volunteers is low – no more than three to four hours over the course of a semester. For readers who reside out of town, we will facilitate online video conferencing using webcams if readers choose to do so. (We'll even provide participants with webcams if they need them.) If you are a Duke alum or employee, consider adding your name to the reader pool. As the reader pool grows, we will be able to offer this opportunity to students in more courses.
 

Interested?

You can sign up to be a reader, learn more about what it takes to be a reader, or feel free to contact Project Manager David Bernay with any questions.

Letter to readers from Cary Moskovitz, Director, Writing in the Disciplines.