The Nature of Tutoring in the R/W Lab

Reading Lab Tutoring

• Reading tutors assist students in completing programmed assignments that give the student practice in applying the principles they learn in class. Tutors explain the exercises, check students’ progress, and assist in maintaining student records.

• Reading tutors do not teach reading, but may work with students individually to explain any concepts about reading that the student may find confusing.

• For information on the Reading Lab program, click on the “Reading Students” tab.

Writing Lab Tutoring

• The Writing Lab provides individualized assistance in all aspects of writing to students referred to the Lab by their teachers or who independently seek help in their writing.

• For information about the Writing Lab program, click on the “Writing Center” tab.
  
  

Tutor Qualifications and Application Process

Qualifications for Reading Tutors:

• A grade of “B” or better in Eng. 089 or Eng. 111
• A score of 80% or better on the reading tutor test
• Prior completion of the EDUC 202 tutor training class, or concurrent enrollment
• Not currently enrolled in a reading class
• Available to work at least ten hours a week
  

Qualifications for Writing Tutors:

• A grade of “B” or better in Eng. 101 or Eng. 201
• A score of 80% or better on the AB56 test
• Prior completion of the EDUC 202 tutor training class, or concurrent enrollment
• Available to work at least ten hours a week

Application Process

• Apply in person in the R/W Lab.

• Complete an application and the appropriate test, and schedule an interview.

• Provide a detailed class schedule.

• Applicants who are accepted for employment will be notified and given a schedule of hours early in the semester.
  
  

Tutor Training

Overview

The tutor training program covers tutoring basics central to the Reading Lab, such as IVC employee duties, tutoring guidelines, communication skills and strategies, special populations, general and specific training on reading and phonics resources, introduction to the reading process and reading research.

Tutors attend an orientation session, training meetings, and work one-on-one with the Learning and Tutoring Services Specialist each semester. There are two levels of training. First semester tutors enroll in EDUC 202, a formal tutor training course (see below for details).

Objectives

• To provide accurate and timely information on Lab procedures and reading resources so that tutors may best serve the Reading Lab program and its students.

• To provide a structured, hands-on field experience wherein tutors may progress to greater levels of responsibility and independence.

• To provide necessary background information on the Reading Lab program and reading instruction so that tutors may gain an understanding of the purpose of reading assignments and procedures.

• To assist tutors in developing an awareness of student diversity and learning styles to encourage a tutor to be culturally open to new developments in the field and the integration of best practices.

First-Semester Training

• Tutor responsibilities
• Tutor evaluation
• Tutoring guidelines
• Reading Lab program
• Communications skills and strategies
• Developmental readers and adult learners

Second-Semester Training

• DSP&S students in the Reading Lab
• Learning Styles
• Communication Strategies for Tutoring, Part 2
• The Phonics Program

Senior Tutor Training

Senior tutor training is for third-semester tutors and expands on the principles taught in the previous training programs. It is offered in both the Reading and Writing service areas.

EDUC 202

This one-unit transferable course is required for all R/W Lab beginning tutors. The course explores the basics of tutoring adult learners. Emphasis is placed on communication skills and strategies, learner independence, and the adult learner.

The class meets for 3 hours, 1 day a week, for 6 weeks.