1. Print this page
2. Read the list of Learning Goals
3. Do the Journal writing assignment before reading the chapter
4. Read Tutor Tutor's web pages on "Common Mistakes"
5. Respond to the Study Questions

Learning Goals

1. explain what is meant by "monopolizing talk-time."
2. explain the disadvantages of the tutor doing the student's work
3. describe five ways tutors communicate criticism to students
4. define and give an example of "going off beam."

Journal writing assignment

1. Imagine that you are a student, and during your second tutoring session your tutor says, "I had this same course last year. Same prof. There was this really tough question on the final..." The tutor then proudly devotes the next 15 minutes describing that question and the intricate and correct answer the tutor came up with. How would you feel?
2. How would it feel if you were working on a tough homework problem and someone was watching you and frowning and shaking her head in response to your work?

Study Questions

1. What is your understanding of the concept of "talk-time?"
2. Who should have most of the talk-time in a tutoring session and how will you as a tutor ensure that outcome?
3. What are the disadvantages of the tutor doing the student's work?
4. In what ways does a tutor communicate to a student that the tutor is critical of the student's work?
5. What is the definition of "off beam?"
6. How can a tutor manage an "off beam" in a tutoring session?