Writing instruction online: a case study from a first year philosophy subject

The study reported in this paper investigated the effectiveness of an online academic writing resource available to first year philosophy students. Data used were questionnaire responses from users of the resource, as well as assignment grades collected from both users and non-users. The study’s findings suggest that the resource was generally useful for students. It was noted however, that it had a tangible benefit only for those who used it in a sustained way. The paper concludes with suggestions for how online academic writing resources might be utilised effectively on university programs.