Student Perceptions of Research and Writing: Charting a Fresh Outlook on Library-Writing Center Collaboration
- Conference Year
- Online Northwest 2026
- Session
- 4
- Type
- Breakout Session
- Presenters
- Celia Hagey, University of Idaho
- Emma Perry, University of Idaho
- Abstract
Libraries and writing centers have long been considered natural collaboration partners due to a recognized overlap between the disciplines of research and writing. However, little research has been done to understand student perceptions of the recursive and interrelated processes of researching and writing. In this proposed session, a reference librarian and a writing center director share early results from an ongoing, IRB-approved research study which aims to address this gap in literature. Our research is inspired by the desire to collaborate more intentionally across departments. Initial findings may indicate not only how students perceive the cognitive tasks undergirding academic research and writing, but also how these perceptions influence their academic support needs. Findings may also inform the development of new strategies for supporting student success. In alignment with this year’s conference themes of Community and Redefining Collaboration, attendees will learn why and how student perceptions of research and writing tasks can inform intentional, effective partnerships between university libraries and writing centers.