The partnering company, Tutor.com, pledges to improve skills, grades and personal confidence. It is instantly accessible at HSU’s Learning Center Web site, http://www.humboldt.edu/learning.
HSU students can now obtain around-the-clock, on-demand help with their homework from teaching experts nationwide. Subjects include college math, science, English, writing, and social studies.
Free tutoring is also offered in basic educational skills, research, and test and resume preparation. English- and Spanish-speaking tutors and career assistance are available via any Internet-enabled PC or Mac.
Online tutoring supplements Humboldt State’s in-house student support services, which include the Advising Center, Learning Center and Career Center.
“Tutor.com enhances our services on campus, but it is not a substitute for them,” said Jyoti Rawal, Associate Dean of Student Retention and Success. “Students will always need to meet in person with faculty and staff. But online tutoring is a huge convenience for students who need help with their homework right away, in the wee hours. Tutoring sessions average about 20 to 40 minutes. It is one more handy resource our students can fall back on when campus offices are closed. It’s easy to use and it’s free.”
Rawal noted that Tutor.com will help students to avoid delays and complete their classroom assignments on time. She added that online tutoring resembles live chat, a relatively new medium of remote communication that students are familiar and comfortable with.
Rawal emphasized that Tutor.com is secure and anonymous.
College of the Redwoods reported success with the service in its first year there, Rawal said, but it is one of many such services. Humboldt State will solicit student and parent feedback on Tutor.com’s effectiveness and which subjects elicit the most interest.
HSU’s one-year pilot is financed with $10,000 from the Office of the President.