How to prepare for your tutoring session
In order to help you get the most out of your next visit to the CTAS, we offer you some information and tips to make your next visit as productive as possible:
What is Student-Centered Tutoring?
We put students at the center of each tutoring session. Students are expected to be active participants throughout the session. Tutors will ask you lots of questions, especially in the first few minutes of a session. They need to do a little detective work to find out your understanding of the assignment or concepts you’ve learned in class and what you’ve already done so far. A good tutor acts as a guide, not an instructor.
The Bring It list
Before your session…
- Think of what you would like help with (specifically) during the session.
- Write down questions for your tutor in advance.
- Bring whatever textbooks, class notes, PowerPoints, or web sources you are planning to use.
- Read assigned material.
- Work out any problems as best you can.
What Tutors Can & Cannot Do
Tutors CAN…
- Clarify and reinforce concepts and areas of confusion.
- Help you review the material covered in class.
- Review problems similar to homework problems or work on grammar errors similar to your own.
- Help you develop independent study skills and proofreading skills.
Tutors CANNOT…
- Assume the role of your instructor and lecture or teach the material.
- Help with take-home tests and actual questions from homework assignments or lab reports.
- Correct or grade papers or assignments.
- Replace going to class.
- Give you ideas for a paper, write for you, or interpret a reading for you.
