Implementing Criterion: Initial Findings

Abstract

Learning to write clearly and develop an ability to evaluate one’s own writing are keyingredients to becoming successful student writers. These skills do not happen naturallybut are developed both inside and outside classrooms. Thus, students need support tobecome proficient writers. To provide such support, in April 2004 Osaka Jogakuin College(OJC) expanded the number of hours its writing center is open, and in April 2005, weobtained accounts for all students to Criterion, an online essay evaluation service. Studentscan access Criterion from any computer with internet access allowing students to evaluatetheir drafts anywhere and anytime. This article highlights the process by which OJCdecided to obtain Criterion accounts, the decisions made in setting up the Criterionsystem, and students’ initial responses to using Criterion for course assignments.