4.1 Using Online Writing Labs

LCCC’s writing instructors are trained in the use of Online Writing Labs (OWLs) to support student learning. Your instructor may introduce you to the OWLs and might assign specific pages for you to read, discuss, and then apply in your various assignments. A variety of topics are covered in these OWLs that are used in LCCC’s composition program–from formatting your paper, to outlining, to crafting complete and accurate works cited entries.

Even if your instructor doesn’t assign a particular topic, feel free to bookmark the links in this chapter and consult them at any point in your writing projects. Look at some of the hyperlinks at the end of this chapter, as well. (Remember, if any of the links are “broken,” you can always go directly to the OWL homepage and navigate from there.)

We also realize that many of your classes will use the APA style guide rather than MLA. By teaching you to use online resources as you learn MLA, we are simultaneously preparing you to adapt to APA style, as you will have a wealth of experience decoding stylistic requirements.

Think of it as learning to drive a car. You may learn to drive in a Ford, but your driving skills transfer easily to driving a Jeep, a Toyota, or any other brand of car, even if the controls for the various systems (blinkers, lights, cruise control, etc.)  are set up somewhat differently. The main facets of driving (brakes, gas pedal, speedometer for monitoring your rate of travel) are essentially the same brand to brand, just like all style guidelines share common expectations of writers (documenting sources, integrating sources into your prose, well-organized paragraphs and papers, etc.). Even substantial changes are manageable; just as it is relatively easy to switch between automobiles with standard and an automatic transmission systems, you will be better equipped to move between APA, MLA, and various other style guides once you have learned to maneuver in one.

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