Writing for Publication: Transitions and Tools that Support Scholars’ Success - Mary Renck Jalongo, Olivia N. Saracho 2016

Writing Groups
From Novice to Expert
Writing as Professional Development

Numerous studies have investigated the effect of writing groups on scholarly productivity (Grant, 2006; Lee & Boud, 2003). Evidently, there are some unifying characteristics of successful writers’ groups (Ness, Duffy, McCallum, & Price, 2014). Perhaps the most critical is that participants must be held accountable for producing written work; otherwise, the group can be dominated by complaining and making excuses.

Activity 13.6: Writing Support from Individuals and Groups

Review the announcements about faculty accomplishments to identify individuals who are widely acknowledged to be prolific publishers—as well as helpful colleagues. Scan the calendar to identify events that can support your goals sponsored by various groups. For example, the library may offer some training on search strategies; the graduate school, help with APA formatting; or a research office, assistance with data analysis software. Check into webinars and other online resources endorsed by your institution as well. If you are a faculty member, find out if there is a support group for academic authors and if not, propose one that would involve local experts.