UCM’s Tutoring Services Program Achieves International Certification

The University of Central Missouri’s Tutoring Services program has received 'Level One international tutor training program certification,' by the College Reading and Learning Association.

According to a press release from UCM, the recognition means that the university joins more than 1,000 colleges and universities in the United States, and around the world, with ITTPC-certified programs.

The UCM Tutoring Service program received the Level One certification for a one year period, with the opportunity to apply for a three-year renewal, with five-year certifications to follow. In addition to the renewal process, the program may apply to become Level Two-advanced and Level Three-master certified programs.

UCM’s Tutoring Services program offers free peer tutoring and assistance for more than 70 academic courses in a variety of majors and minors.

The press release says that the program provided over 4,400 hours of tutoring, in more than 2,900 visits, during the 2016-17 academic year. Tutors are undergraduate students who are recommended by faculty for having outstanding academic and interpersonal skills. Successful CRLA-certified programs require peer tutors to receive at least 10 hours of training in a minimum of eight of 15 topics, including assertiveness, goal-setting, study skills, diversity, varied learning disabilities, referral skills, learning styles, and active listening. Tutors must complete a minimum of 25 hours of active one-on-one tutoring, and complete regular evaluations.

“Increased use of the center this academic year is a clear indicator that our tutor training is working, and students are able to access the academic support they need,” said Kimberly Courtwright, coordinator of the Tutoring Services program. She added that participation by faculty is the key to increased student participation.

“When faculty share tutoring schedules and details, students are more likely to take that first step to becoming self-initiated learners by utilizing the free tutoring resources available at UCM,” she said.