Takes a retrospective look at a decade's change in the role of English at a midwestern university, and the English department's attempt to create a working community of scholars through a focus on writing improvement. (AEA)

To alleviate current instructional and curricular problems, college English departments should cooperate with secondary schools in such areas as teacher training in writing instruction, reduction of teaching loads, and grading of papers of college-preparatory students. Colleges should also consider establishing admission requirements of four years…

Focuses on the need for improved teaching at the secondary and college levels of the English curriculum, emphasizing the view of learning that also includes the development of thinking abilities capable of helping students use information to create their own insights. Reviews recent pedagogical guides that follow this approach. (NKA)