Jordan Wiggins

Description: Students are often placed in their English 101 course by advisors. Others register for this course as it is a requirement to finish their program of study. A requirement, nonetheless. Like the previous English courses they’ve encountered, students understand this introductory class as a one that has no relevance to their careers and possible passions. Even the creatives insist that they’re not equipped with the mental capacity for the course, due to the rigid requirements of writing. We see all these stories in student narratives but what happens when we modify the course to student needs? Students only participate in topics they are interested in.   English 101 must prepare students to critically think by presenting academic and industry writing. This course is part of program requirements to train students to communicate critical thought and using research sources. Students may become bored when they realize that they gain no knowledge about their program of study or interests in an English course. No, they do not expect their English instructors to know anything about computer technology, automotives, culinary, health/ medicine, or other industries. Reality is, we do! We are familiar with these areas because we must. We can engage in conversation and provide resources about all these topics. They will never know this unless you engage in the conversation.   I will focus on 1. Industry and Academic writing in the classroom; 2. Recursive writing; 3. The African concept of mbongi! A learning space or a room with no walls. A space where students bring their critical thoughts on issues, and it gets heated! However, we leave with some resolutions but mostly interests in our words being heard. Students write their true feelings, with the intent of using their own voice. This is the power of the mbongi!