Learning Ecologies: Building, Improving, and Refining Pedagogy: Minnesota Writing and English Conference 2023

Abstract

The 14th annual Minnesota Writing & English Conference unfolds on the beautiful, tree-lined campus of one of our largest and oldest universities in Minnesota, St. Cloud State. Events will happen in the modern, well-ventilated Atwood Student Center and nearby classrooms. All events will be simultaneously in person and on Zoom. You may present and attend in either mode. The spring 2023 Conference prompts our larger MnWE community to think about sustainability: what makes natural systems or human endeavors (even modest ones like our annual gathering) vital, resilient, and evolving? This year’s theme encourages participants to reflect on how we create and nurture the environments and fields that sustain students and help them thrive. Which systems and events work well? Which are lively? Which are not? Myriad challenges such as climate change, equity for all, Coronavirus, and the struggle over American democracy require that we examine our relationships with each other and with our planet. English and Writing instructors, ESOL and Reading teachers, students, librarians, and tutors to consider how we can equip ourselves and others to understand and contribute to these critical conversations. What pedagogies have worked to cultivate better thinkers, readers, and writers, and what are your visions for tomorrow’s learning ecologies? Welcome to MnWE 2023!