Measuring Student Self-Perceptions of Writing Skills in Programs of Journalism and Mass Communication

Abstract

This study explored student self-perceptions of writing skills in journalism and mass communication programs at thirteen public state universities in the mid-Atlantic region. Factor analysis revealed seven sets of perceptions among 860 students. A Media Writing Self-Perception Scale was constructed and found to be reliable. The authors propose using this scale to help craft new instructional approaches. This study addresses implications for faculty members who wish to better understand their students in order to devise more effective writing instruction.