Tutors and Instructors
LISTEN to the following podcast from Penny Freel, a former instructor in the SWW Composition Program, to learn more about dynamics and scenarios between instructors, students and tutors in the program
In an article about embedding tutoring found in the CRLA Handbook, the authors note: “An important aspect of the embedded tutor’s role is his or her relationship with the instructor. This relationship is unique to the embedded tutoring program, as embedded tutors have to work alongside faculty members” (292). Unlike tutors working at drop-in tutoring center, you will get the know the instructor of the course. Of course, having a good rapport with the course instructor is important, and most of the time, SWW tutors and instructors get along well.
When assisting an instructor, tutors must “be sensitive not just to the needs of their tutees but also to the teaching style and goals of the course instructor” (Kelinman et al. 293). This means that you should spend some time looking over the instructor’s syllabus and assignment directions carefully. If you have questions about the course, ask them. Most instructors are only too happy to talk about their pedagogy!
A special note should be made about the tutor-instructor. Some SWW tutors are simultaneously instructors, either because they are Teaching Assistants or because they are professional tutors, who also teach at SUNY New Paltz. They know the instructors with whom they work as colleagues. If you are currently a composition instructor, you will likely note how your role shifts as a tutor working with an instructor. Be self-aware about where your authority begins and ends within the context of your role as an embedded tutor.
The Workshop Hour
SWW tutors work with instructors in the classroom in a variety of ways. Sometimes, instructors ask tutors to work one-on-one with students during the workshop hour. Others may have tutors run small group sessions or workshop papers with pairs of students. Keep in mind that instructors want tutors to be proactive while in the classroom (unless the instructor is lecturing, of course).
Weekly Tutoring Log
As might be expected, regular communication between tutors and instructors is essential. Not are tutors required to keep attendance each week, they also should be tracking recurring issues with student writing. Using tutor feedback, instructors can then tailor mini-lessons to meet student needs. In addition, because the tutors are often the students’ first audience, not only for drafts of papers but also for initial brainstorming about topics, tutors often become aware of student questions/confusion about an assignment before instructors do. In their role as intermediary between student and instructor, tutors play an important role in translating the parameters of assignments and clearing up misinterpreted instructions.
Below, you will find the template for the weekly tutoring log that you should fill out and email to the instructor to whom you have been assigned.
