Min-Zhan Lu, 1991
In the current reading, Min-Zhan Lu addresses the conflicting idea of language in basic writing. Mina Shaughnessy perceived language as a politically neutral method of conveying messages; however, Lu (1991) argues that this perspective is flawed and cannot be used to explain the differences in various discourses. According to Lu, every discourse, such as academic writing or casual speech, have implications and restrictions on how the language operates. Regardless of Shaughnessy’s view of teaching, her methods were not considerate of the political context of the writing. Ultimately, Lu believes that pedagogy in basic writing should revolve around the connectedness of the “literate” language with politics, culture, and other associated areas.
Min-Zhan Lu, 1992
Consequently, in the 1992 article, Min-Zhan Lu addresses the nature of education in basic writing. She investigates the two prominent perspectives: education as acculturation and education as accommodation (Lu, 1992). As described by Thomas Farrell, the former concerns the transformational process of students from “orality” to “literacy”, implying the increased communication and writing competencies (Lu, 1992, p. 893). However, the forced nature of the process frequently implies a dismissive attitude toward the learners. On the other hand, education as accommodation is perceived as a more sympathetic approach that caters to the needs and desires of the students. As a concluding remark, Min-Zhan Lu states that regardless of the method, pedagogues need to find more effective methods to resolve the problem of ‘conflict and struggle’ in the classrooms.
Lawrence, P. et al., 1993
In the 1993 symposium, Lawrence et al. also address the legacy of Mina Shaughnessy regarding basic writing and its political context. They also examine Lu’s perspective on the idea that ‘conflict and struggle’ might be beneficial for teachers to reposition themselves and grasp a better understanding of their students (Lawrence et al., 1993). While the perspectives of the authors differ, it is evident that political context in basic writing is an ambiguous area of research with conflicting opinions. From these considerations, the authors agree that future research is required, and it is essential to develop a pedagogy framework that would include the most benefits to students and teachers.
References
Lawrence, P., Rondinone, P., Gleason, B., & Farrell, T. J. (1993). Basic writing, conflict and struggle, and the legacy of Mina Shaughnessy. College English, 55(8), 879-903.
Lu, M.-Z. (1991). Redefining the legacy of Mina Shaughnessy: A critique of the politics of linguistic innocence. Journal of Basic Writing, 10(1), 26-40.
Lu, M.-Z. (1992). Conflict and struggle: The enemies of preconditions of basic writing? College English, 54(8), 887-913.