Tutor Training
Some basics about tutoring include:
1. Do not do the homework FOR the student. Work an example if you want to, but let the student show you how they are working on a problem so that you can see where they are going wrong and then help the student learn how to do it correctly.
2. Don't assume you know where the student is struggling. Ask the student how he/she would like to use this time. If they don't have any ideas, then you can start by looking at their assignments and seeing how much they know about how to proceed with that assignment.
3. Keep track of your time with the student for your timecard. Do not wait more than 15 minutes for a student and if they fail to show up for an appointment or are routinely late, notify your supervisor and let the student know they may be assigned to a new tutor. It's okay for the student to know your time is valuable.
4. If you are confused about something in the materials, feel free to contact the professor teaching the course to ask about the material so that you can better explain it to the student.
5. Always meet in a common space. Try to avoid meeting in a student's room. This protects both people involved in tutoring and keeps the focus on academics.
6. Try to avoid tutoring friends. It is too easy to start chatting about non-class items and this wastes time (time=$ and we have limited funds for tutoring so want to make the best of them).
7. Try to start with 1-3 hours per week per student. If they need more, go up to 6 hours a week but explain to supervisor on paperwork why the extra time was needed. :)
These are some resources that will strengthen your skills as a tutor.
Tutoring students who are writing papers (basics) - this video takes about 20 minutes to watch
A whole series of short videos that give you tips on a range of tutoring skills
If you have problems with a particular student, feel free to see your supervisor for some ideas. Each student is different and can pose new challenges. :)
PAPERWORK: Each block please fill out the following log on students you tutor. Email it or drop it off in the tutoring office/Old Sem.
ALSO, fill out the student timecard which should be listed on your screen when you are in the Cornell system. If you do not see a timecard, notify your supervisor right away.