OUR POLICIES

Scheduling:

• Advance Booking: We recommend booking writing consultations at least one day in advance to allow consultants adequate preparation time.

• Back-to-Back Sessions: Consecutive sessions may be scheduled when necessary, but please book only the required time to avoid wasting appointments.

• Online Booking System: Utilize the online booking system for efficient appointment scheduling.

Punctuality:

Arriving on Time: Punctuality is essential. Sessions will not be extended for late arrivals.

Missed Appointments: Missed appointments should be canceled in advance through the calendar invite or by emailing writingcenter@faculty.ie.edu. 

Repeated Missed Appointments: Individuals with a history of repeatedly missed appointments may have future scheduling privileges temporarily restricted. However, walk-in sessions remain available for services.

Walk-in Sessions:

• Availability: Walk-in sessions are available on a first-come, first-served basis.

• Wait Times: During periods of high demand, individuals may be asked to schedule a future appointment.

• Recommendation: We strongly encourage booking appointments in advance to ensure better availability of consultants and make the most of your time.

Preparation:

• Bring Materials: Individuals should bring all relevant materials to their appointments, including drafts, assignments, notes, and any relevant readings.

• Proofreading: It is recommended to proofread work for basic grammar and spelling errors before the appointment. Tools like spell check and grammar checkers can be helpful.

• Active Participation: Active participation is expected during the consultation. Engage with the consultant's feedback, ask questions, and be involved in the process.

• Confidentiality: All information shared during consultations will be treated confidentially, in accordance with the Writing Center's policies.

Academic Integrity: The highest standards of academic integrity must be adhered to. Plagiarism and other forms of academic dishonesty are strictly prohibited.

Professionalism: Consultants will maintain a professional and respectful demeanor at all times.

Confidentiality: The Writing Center maintains the confidentiality of consultee information within the limits of institutional policies.

Feedback: Consultants will provide constructive and actionable feedback tailored to an individual's needs.

Accessibility: The Writing Center strives to create an inclusive and accessible environment for every one.

Focus on Writing Processes:

• The Writing Center is dedicated to supporting individuals throughout the writing process, including brainstorming, outlining, drafting, revising, and editing.

Consultants can provide guidance on:

• Developing ideas: Brainstorming, generating ideas, and organizing thoughts.

• Structuring arguments: Creating outlines, developing thesis statements, and organizing information effectively.

• Improving clarity and coherence: Refining sentence structure, improving paragraph flow, and enhancing overall readability.

• Addressing stylistic issues: Identifying and addressing issues of style, tone, and voice.

• Citing sources: Understanding and applying citation styles (e.g., MLA, APA, Chicago).

Not a Proofreading Service:

• The Writing Center is not a professional proofreading service. While consultants can offer feedback on grammar, mechanics, and punctuation, the primary focus is on larger-scale writing issues. Individuals are encouraged to proofread for minor errors (such as typos and spelling mistakes) before their appointments.

Respectful Behavior: All individuals are expected to maintain a respectful and inclusive environment for every one.

Appropriate Communication: Discriminatory, offensive, or disrespectful language is not tolerated.

Accommodations: Individuals with disabilities are encouraged to discuss any necessary accommodations with the Writing Center staff.

Inclusive Environment: The Writing Center strives to create an inclusive and accessible environment for every one.

Electronic Devices: The use of electronic devices should be minimized during consultations and should not disrupt other users. Devices should be used for consultation purposes. 

Recording: Recording consultations is generally not permitted without prior written consent.

Feedback Mechanisms: Consultees are encouraged to provide feedback on their experiences with the Writing Center through our IE University Writing Center Follow-up Survey.

Addressing Concerns: The Writing Center will address concerns or complaints regarding Writing Center services or staff in a timely and appropriate manner.

Data: Data collected by the Writing Center (e.g., appointment information, feedback) is used, stored, and protected in accordance with relevant data privacy regulations.

Supplementary Service: The Writing Center provides supplementary support to classroom instruction.

No Guarantees: The Writing Center cannot guarantee specific grades or outcomes.

The IE University Writing Center will regularly review and update these policies to ensure they remain relevant, effective, and in compliance with institutional guidelines.