Here at SAAS, we stress the importance of being both a good tutor and a good employee. Although the overall concepts are very similar, there are key differences that we like to emphasize in order to make sure that we have the best tutor staff available for out students.
Characteristics of a Good Tutor:
- Confident, Patient, and Understanding. Your job is facilitate and coach. In order to effectively do so you must posses the soft skills necessary to connect with your students. If you are confident in yourself, they will be confident in your ability to assist them.
Don’t get frustrated with your students; remember that everyone learns at different levels. And finally, compassion is key. You don’t know what kind of day or week your student has been having, so try to be understanding and see things from their perspective. - Knowledgeable. You need to know your stuff. Our students are coming to you for help because they need it. Make sure that you are constantly reviewing the course materials that you are tutoring so that you are able to adequately assist your students. If you find yourself tutoring a subject that you’re not that comfortable with, please let your LTA know. We want to make sure that both our tutors and students are set up for success!
- Encourages Independence. Again, you are just a facilitator of learning. It is NOT your job to do work for your students, you are simply an aid in their educational experience. While you are here to assist, you are NOT responsible for a student’s success. Ultimately, you want to get them to a point where they are able to do the things that you all do in yours sessions independently.
Characteristics of a Good Employee:
- On Time. This is a job, so treat it as such. Make sure that you are here with a enough time to gather your materials and prepare your room for your session.
- In Dress Code. The dress code has been made very clear. Make sue that you are here with you tutor shirt and the appropriate bottoms. Professionalism is key.
- Complies with all Tutor Policies. This encompasses a lot including the call-out policy, compliance basics, academic integrity, and much more. All of those things have been covered during your orientation, but if you have any questions please feel free to reach out to your LTA. These rules are set in place to ensure that the tutor program is running smoothly. Your cooperation is both appreciated and necessary.
These are just a few key points on what it takes to be a good tutor and a good employee. Remember, here at SAAS we need you to be both!