Learning Assistant Training

Learning Assistant Training Before Beginning the Job

The length of this varies based on the qualifications of applicants and the nature of the position; for example, education majors usually require less training. Along similar lines, different positions require different training.

Supplemental Instruction

Ideally, education majors are hired for this position.

• Required to read the "Active Learning Strategies" training manual and attend orientation meetings.
• Paired with senior S.I. tutor for Tutor Mentoring.
  • Required to build content knowledge via peer and self-guided training
  • Required to attend senior tutor's S.I. sessions and reflectively journal/discuss the process.
  • After hiring, tutor will still work with his/her mentor in developing weekly lesson plans for the sessions.

Writing Learning Assistants

• Applicant submits samples of writing to be used in "tutorials" where the director or a senior writing tutor models the tutorial process.
• The applicant takes a grammar exam that will be used for a customized training plan.
• Applicant takes MLA/APA/Chicago-style documentation exam that will be used for a customized remediation plan.

Subject Area Learning Assistants/ Virtual Learning Assistants (Math, Biology, etc.)

The specific nature of this varies applicant by applicant; it usually involves a "customized" plan based on areas of weakness. For example:

• Peer and self-guided training to build content knowledge.
• Development of Communication Skills
• Learning about the pedagogy of tutoring (reading, abstracting, and commenting on texts and articles).
• Faculty Sponsorship of New Tutors

On-Going Tutor Training During the Job

Even after the tutor officially begins tutoring, the training process continues in the following ways:

• Peer and self-guided training to build content knowledge and communication skills.
• Scripted Observations by the office staff and director
• Tutor-to-Tutor Mentoring (both being mentored and serving as mentors)
• Faculty Sponsorship
• Tutor-to-Tutor Reflective Feedback Exchanges (take turns observing each other; discussion follows)
• Tutor Development Meetings (examples include: Working with LD Clients, Article Presentation Forum, Working with International Students, Dealing with Difficult Clients, Mental Health Matters, etc.).

If you have any questions, please email Campus Tutorial Services at tutorctr@uww.edu.