Welcome to our sample discussion page. The following is based on an actual discussion on a message board in one of our earlier courses. The names have been changed to protect the innocent.

After you finish reviewing this page, click here to return to Unit 1.

PROMPT 1: Post your response to the first chapter of The Master Tutor, with special attention to the goals of tutoring. What questions come to mind? Are there any points that seem particularly important? Any that you would like to challenge?

The first chapter was really an eye-opener for me, especially the part on "Limits of the Tutor's Role." It cleared up a lot of uncertainties that I had with regards to my job requirements. The goals were nicely broken down in the form of a little table. I think Goals #1 and #3 are really important. A lot of students come in for their tutoring sessions expecting me to just pour the information into their heads, and they weren't as keen in discussing the learning strategies. I will now try to focus more on learning strategies rather than just getting that certain math problem solved during the tutoring session because I do want them to eventually to work on their own and not need tutorial assistance anymore. That, I think is the ultimate goal.

Christine, you mention one of the most important aspects of tutoring: imbedding learning strategies into the tutoring session. As you progress through the course, you will learn how you can do this as you work through problems with your tutees. When these strategies become part of the actual lesson, it's not only easier to have students understand them but also accept this vital step toward becoming independent learners.

Good response!

The first chapter was excellent! I think that personalizing instruction is very important since not every student learns in the same way as another. I know that some students learn auditory, kinesthetically and visually. Personally, I was a visual learner in college and I had to take excellent notes and review those notes in order to assimilate the material. I think the next important goal of tutoring is respecting the individual differences in the student in culture, education level and motivation. I like the limits of tutoring clearly expressed in chapter one.

Great post, Diane! You'll be happy to know that one of the later units addresses many of the concerns you mention above: learning types, cultural differences, etc.

Hi, Diane. I think I'm a visual learner too and it never occurred to me that not all people learn the same as I do. I always use sketches and diagrams to explain math principles to students, but maybe that doesn't work for everyone. I guess I need a few more tricks! ;-)