Tutoring as Colloborative

I keep thinking about the writing center as a "community of practice." I've had a few sessions where I've needed help or perspective from other tutors. A lot of times, having another tutor there enhances the session and gives the tutee advice that I wouldn't be able to give. For example, one student came in for help writing a rejection letter for a business writing. I was at the computer with him, trying to brainstorm ideas out loud. Amanda was at the other computer and I asked her if she had any suggestions--other than what I gave--to improve his letter. Having another tutor there also emphasizes the fact that tutors are not experts--sometimes we even need help, too.

That being said--I think there are other times when it's inappropriate to be collaborative--or for other tutors to interrupt sessions. For example, only the tutee working with a student can know the dynamic that is set from the very start of the session--and each of us as tutors sets a different tone/dynamic. We were talking in the meeting today (and the chapter mentioned) how we are all constantly learning and growing through new experiences as tutors. That learning is interrupted if another tutor interjects a session in progess. I think this happens sometimes, especially since the writing center is so small and everyone can listen to sessions. I just wanted to write about the times when it is appropriate/inapproriate to be collaborative as tutors. If another tutor asks for advice, it's definitely appropriate.