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Analytical Tools to Facilitate Transitions Into New Writing Contexts: A Communicative Perspective

University of Michigan

Jone Rymer

Wayne State University, Detroit

Through a field study using essays from the Analytical Writing Assessment (AWA) of the Graduate Management Admission Test, we developed a set of analytical tools to diagnose students' potential problems in MBA writing assignments. The four tools—task, coherence, reasoning units, and error interference—can be used to evaluate writing effectiveness based on success of the communicative interaction between reader and writer. We tested the tools via blind and open scoring meth ods and in direct writing consultations with students at two contrasting business schools. Correlations between the AWA holistic scores reported by the Educational Testing Service and our analytical tool scores suggest that the tools conceptualize distinct traits in the AWA essays and can in turn be used to diagnose potential deficiencies in MBA writing. In post-consultation surveys, students reported learn ing about problems in their writing and about ways to address these needs, as well as improved confidence as they transitioned into MBA writing. By accommo dating reader and contextual differences, these analytical tools may bridge dis courses where conventional checklists have failed.

Key Words: writing assessment • MBA writing • GMAT • Analytical Writing Assessment (AWA) • writing across disciplines

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