Research writing groups

Given the particular epistemological and textual demands of qualitative research within the context of changing doctoral education, it is not surprising that there appears to be uncertainty about how to best support student writing. Yet at the same time there is evidence of considerable innovation i n this area. In this chapter I highlight one of these initiatives, namely writing groups for thesis writing. The chapter begins with a brief history of writing groups and an outline of the framework of academic literacies within which writing groups can be theorised. I then describe different models for thesis writing groups and reflect on the value of writing groups specifically for qualitative researchers. I explain how writing groups can be a powerful tool for dissertation and thesis writing for qualitative researchers. This chapter draws on my research and experiences as an academic literacy teacher, and as such incorporates theory and practice, self-reflection, and the many voices of my writing group participants.