Writing Mentors as Change Agents

Theoretical Perspectives on the University of Vienna's Writing Mentoring Program

Abstract

The University of Vienna's writing mentoring program was launched in 2013 to disseminate knowledge about writing processes among students in earlier stages of their studies (Kuntschner & Römmer-Nossek, 2021). The program supports the development of students' academic writing skills and facilitates change in higher education practices. This article explores the potential of considering writing mentors as change agents. Writing mentors, similarly to writing fellows (Zawacki, 2008), act as multipliers who disseminate writing process knowledge and provide feedback for students. The research is based on a conceptual framework, which centers on the role of change agents and connects it to key concepts and approaches of writing mentoring, such as process orientation, peer group setting, and a community-based approach. This paper provides theoretical insights into the role of writing mentors as change agents and the potential of this perspective for higher education practitioners seeking strategies to facilitate change in the institution’s writing culture.