Analyzing Students' Perceptions of Their Examination of Writing Competency (EWC) Readiness in Online First-Year Composition Courses

Due to its flexibility and convenience, online instruction is increasingly becoming an attractive, viable option for many students. In 2008, Norfolk State University began promoting online course and program development as a means of "growing the university." Thus, academic departments have increased the number of available online courses and online degree programs. All degree-seeking students are required to pass the Examination of Writing Competency (EWC) which they are eligible to take after completing two semesters of first-year composition. This study, utilizing a survey and site (course) "observation," analyzes the perceptions of students who have completed or nearly completed two semesters of online FYC as to their readiness to take the EWC. (Note that the study did not address whether or not students passed the examination.) The analysis of the survey and Blackboard course site suggests that a significant percentage of these students do not feel that they are prepared to take the EWC despite the fact that FYC targets the very skills and abilities that are critical to success on the examination. Further, the analysis points to larger questions concerning pedagogical assumptions about course design and teaching FYC particularly in the asynchronous online environment.