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ASC: Supports for Faculty and Staff - English Language Centre

FAQs about English Language Tutoring

What’s our approach to language tutoring?

With the goal of students becoming self-sufficient language learners, our tutors use program materials whenever possible to help students build the academic and professional skills and strategies needed to be successful in their courses and future industry settings. 

How quickly can students improve their language skills through tutoring?

Building knowledge and use of an additional language requires study and practice and the speed of skill development differs among individuals.  For many students, regular language tutoring sessions improve their knowledge of how English works and how to use it effectively in their program context. Students often tell us that they feel more confident to use English in class and in program-related work experiences because they are meeting regularly with an English Language tutor. 

How much tutoring can a student get?

Students can meet with an English Language tutor for up to one hour per week.  In some cases we will increase this weekly time allotment.

How do students meet with a tutor?

Language tutoring is currently taking place via MS Teams or Webex, with limited on-site tutoring available. Students need a reliable internet connection and a headset.

Can I tell the tutor what I’d like the student to work on in tutoring?

We welcome your suggestions for areas of improvement related to the communication demands of your program. Please let your student know what you would like them to work on and ask them to share this with their tutor.

Will the tutor help the student with assignments and tests?

Yes and no. If a student asks for help with an assignment or preparing for a test, our tutors start by making sure the student understands the assignment instructions or test parameters before working on the language needed to complete it successfully. Our tutors do not do the work for the student or test them on content, but will ensure they are using effective assignment completion and test preparation strategies so that they can manage future assignments and assessments independently.

What happens if a student misses a tutoring appointment?

If a student doesn’t show up for a scheduled appointment, they forfeit their tutoring hour for the week and will need to re-book for the following week. If a student cancels their appointment 24-hours in advance, the tutor will try to re-book the appointment for the same week. In the case of multiple no-shows, the student will forfeit tutoring for the term.

Is there a cost for language tutoring?

Yes. Time!  But like all student services at the college, there is no financial cost to the student for English Language tutoring.