Kurt Schick

Kurt Schick is a Professor Emeritus in the School of Writing, Rhetoric and Technical Communication at James Madison University (JMU), where he has been affiliated since 2001. His academic role combines teaching and research in writing studies, rhetoric, and composition pedagogy. Schick holds a Ph.D. in English from Texas Christian University (2002), an M.A. in Teaching from Mary Baldwin College (1995), and a B.A. in Middle East Studies from the University of Virginia (1987).

His research focuses on composition pedagogies, writing center practices, and the integration of academic writing with civic engagement. Notable contributions include co-authorship of So What? The Writer’s Argument (Oxford UP, 2021) and editing A Guide to Composition Pedagogies (2014), among other influential textbooks and journal articles. Schick’s work emphasizes practical pedagogical strategies, faculty development through writing groups, and rethinking traditional writing instruction practices.

His publications span topics such as citation practices, multimodal composition, and the role of writing centers in higher education. He has consistently advocated for evidence-based approaches to writing instruction, challenging conventional methods while promoting innovative curricular designs.

• Educations:
  • Ph.D. in English, Texas Christian University (2002)
  • M.A. in Teaching, Mary Baldwin College (1995)
  • B.A. in Middle East Studies, University of Virginia (1987)
• Professional Focus: First-year writing programs, argumentation pedagogy, writing center course development, and scholarly writing communities.

Though no awards are explicitly listed, Schick’s extensive publication record and editorial work reflect his significant contributions to the field of writing studies. His research continues to influence composition pedagogy and writing center practices nationally.