Laura is a lecturer/researcher and the Writing Centre Coordinator for the Unit for Language Development (ULD) at the CTL. She holds an MA in Applied Languages, the focus of which was on investigating the efficacy of course materials geared towards developing the literacy skills of ESL students from disadvantages schooling backgrounds. The study emphasised the role of language in learning and the need to adopt a content-based approach to language learning in order to facilitate students’ acquisition of discipline-specific discourses.

Laura started up the UFS writing centre, Write Site, the work of which currently involves close collaboration with faculty members to develop students’ academic writing skills within the disciplines. Her work at the ULD includes coordinating the English literacy course for Economic and Management Sciences students. She has more than 10 years’ experience in presenting ESL courses at a number of institutions. Areas of special interest include ESL reading and writing development, ESL acquisition, ESL teacher training, and ESL course compilation.