In higher education, writing is essential, as noted by Mazak in 2024, and plays a significant role in the tenure process. Despite its importance, faculty often do not prioritize writing for publication. The main obstacle is time, but issues such as confidence and other barriers also hinder starting the process. Writing is often pushed to the nonexistent spare moments, and when time does appear, other unfinished tasks take precedence. Faculty often procrastinate due to a lack of commitment and confidence, tending to focus on more immediate, manageable tasks. Yet, writing remains a job requirement, despite the challenges.
A model that likens writing to building a house may help overcome these hurdles. Writing, much like constructing a home, requires careful planning and execution. The 6+1 Trait Writing model, as proposed by Culham in 2003, serves as an essential toolkit: ideas, organization, voice, word choice, sentence fluency, conventions, and presentation. This approach emphasizes breaking down the writing process into manageable stages, each addressing different aspects of the project, similar to constructing a house from the ground up.
The first step involves selecting a topic, akin to choosing a property location. Just as one might explore different communities for a new home, writers should read existing literature to see where their work fits. This is where ideas begin to form. Next, obtaining a plan stamp parallels securing IRB approval for research. This stage involves ensuring the research design and methods are solid and well-supported by data.
Authors take on the role of general contractors, though collaborating with co-authors can enhance the work’s quality. Clearing one’s schedule to focus on the project is similar to site clearance in construction, requiring dedicated time slots for writing. Establishing a well-structured outline serves as the foundation, while drafting sections like “Methods” and “Results” is akin to framing the house.
Completing the first draft corresponds to the lock-up stage in construction, where the structure is secure but still requires interior work. Regular breaks provide fresh perspectives, much like stepping away from a building site. During the interior finishes stage, refining the paper’s voice and sentence fluency is critical. Adding research to support weak areas is comparable to fitting fixtures and painting.
The final walk-through involves seeking peer feedback and making necessary revisions before submitting the paper for publication. Like obtaining a Certificate of Occupancy, finding the right journal can validate the work, even if minor changes are needed. Writing, like building, is not always linear and may encounter setbacks. However, adapting to these disruptions ensures the project remains on track.
Michelle Ciminelli, PhD, an associate professor of literacy education at Niagara University, emphasizes that starting a writing project with a solid structure and craftsmanship will help writers find their voice.
Original Source: facultyfocus.com
