Academic Resource Office

Peer Tutoring Program FAQ

COMMON QUESTIONS:

 

1.      How can I get a one-on-one tutor through the ARO?

**Come to the ARO, Flora Frick 151 and ask for an application to be tutored, leave it with Wendy at the front desk.  Courses served by  Supplemental Instruction are not eligible for tutoring services. 

*The  tutoring coordinator:  tutor@mnstate.edu will contact you over e-mail to let you know if we have a tutor for your requested course.  You will then come in during her office hours to meet with her, sign a contract for services and pick a time slot with a tutor. 

*During your first session, come prepared with your text, syllabus, and notes.  All tutoring will take place here in the ARO at one of our tables or conference room.

2.     How many hours can I get tutored for?

*Students are allowed one hour per course a week for the semester in the ARO.

3.     What other options are available for tutoring if I need more help?

Write Site:  Drop In Tutoring for writing is available in Lommen 95 through the write site.  Information can be found at their website:  http://www.mnstate.edu/write/

Math tutoring:  Math offers several  options for drop-in tutoring for Math 102 (check in MA 370 for posted hours), College Algebra (MA 276, 278), and all courses (MA 383). 

Supplemental Instruction:  Information and schedules are found on their website:  http://www.mnstate.edu/counsel/SI/index.htm  Offers support for courses in: Math, Chemistry,

Biology and Physics

Several academic departments offer tutoring as well, come to the ARO to find a list posted outside of the Tutoring Cubicle (Flora Frick 151G).

4.       What is Supplemental Instruction?  Weekly SI sessions  begin the second week of classes, and are scheduled at times that will enable most students to participate.  The SI leader will announce their SI schedule in class.  Attendance is voluntary.  You can attend one, two, or all three sessions – it's up to you.  Students can also check their website, the SI office in Bridges 249, the bulletin board across from the Counseling Center in Bridges 260, or ask the SI leader in your class for when to attend.

5.       What if I decide to no longer attend tutoring or cannot make a session?

When you sign up you will be given your tutor's phone number and e-mail.  If you are no longer interested in tutoring, or cannot make a session, it is your responsibility to contact your tutor.  You should also e-mail tutoring at tutor@mnstate.edu or call 477-4336 as well.  If you fail to come to more than one session, you will no longer be eligible to receive tutoring services.

6.      Why am I assigned to a group tutoring session instead of a one-on-one tutor?

*The Tutoring Program provides  group sessions for frequently requested services, such as Accounting, Psychology, and Math.

*Research shows that the collaborative learning in group sessions are more effective than one-on-one interactions.  Group sessions  provide a chance for a wider exchange of viewpoints, questions, brainstorming, and information. 

*If you have concerns about group tutoring, please talk with the tutoring coordinator.

7.  Can I get drop-in tutoring through the ARO?

The tutoring program does not offer drop-in tutoring.  We offer services that are designed to provide ongoing tutoring throughout the semester on a weekly basis.  Please see question 3 for other resources that may provide drop-in tutoring.