Tutoring Frequently Asked Questions

• What tutoring services does DSU offer?
• Who receives tutoring?
• How do I make arrangements to receive tutoring?
• How much does tutoring cost?
• What should I bring to the tutoring session?
• What happens in a tutoring session?
• Who are the tutors?
• How are tutors evaluated?
• How can I become a tutor?

What tutoring services does DSU offer?

• DSU offers four avenues for students to receive tutoring: peer tutoring on-campus, an online writing lab, the Math Center, and Elluminate online tutoring.
• On-campus tutoring: DSU provides individual and small-group tutoring at the Library on a walk-in or appointment basis for current Dakota State students. Tutors are available in a variety of subjects, including Accounting, English, Mathematics, Statistics, Biology, Chemistry, Physics, Computer Science, Networking, Programming, and Hardware courses.
• Online Writing Lab (OWL): The DSU Online Writing Lab (OWL) provides writing assistance to students both on the DSU campus and at a distance. Students can request writing assistance or feedback on writing assignments by submitting their essays to OWL@pluto.dsu.edu.
• Math Center: The goal of the Math Center (located in Habegar Science Building Room 121) is to create a positive, comfortable learning environment for students enrolled in Math 021 and 101. Tutors and instructors are available to assist students with questions regarding course content and the MyMathLab software.
• Elluminate (Online) Tutoring
  • Elluminate online tutoring sessions are available to DSU distance students and DSU students attending at the UC (in some subject areas).
  • Sessions may be scheduled Sunday 2 – 10 PM, and Monday – Thursday 6 – 10 PM.
  • See the Library Tutor schedule for information on tutors available for Elluminate tutoring.
  • Sessions must be scheduled 24 hours in advance by contacting Patti Beck at patti.beck@dsu.edu or 605-256-5900

Who receives tutoring?

Many students believe that getting help from tutors is something you do only if you're having problems in a class. In reality, all kinds of students use tutoring services, even if they're already doing well in their courses. Tutoring is simply an effective means of studying. When you interact with a tutor, your brain processes the information more effectively than if you study passively. Plus, the tutor can help you identify what you don't know and show you more productive ways of learning.

How do I make arrangements to receive tutoring?

On-campus tutoring at the Library operates mainly on a walk-in basis; however, you can also contact the Tutoring Coordinator at Patti.Beck@dsu.edu to schedule individual appointments.

How much does tutoring cost?

Both on-campus and online tutoring is available to students FREE of charge. DSU wants to make sure everyone has an opportunity to succeed in college, and this is just one of the ways we show our dedication to that cause.

What should I bring to the tutoring session?

You should bring any course-related materials (textbook, class notes, handouts, previous exams, study guides, etc.) that will help make the tutoring session as productive as possible. If you have questions about what is expected on your assignment, try to ask your instructor before you come to tutoring.

What happens in a tutoring session?

At the beginning of the session, you will show the tutor your work or assignment and explain where you are getting stuck - it helps if you have specific questions. The tutor will help you work through the material, class notes, text, and assignments. Tutors are trained to listen, ask questions, and assist students in the learning process.

Who are the tutors?

Tutors are students who have already taken the course in which you are being tutored, have been recommended by the department, and have been trained in tutoring techniques.

How are tutors evaluated?

Everyone who attends a tutoring session is encouraged to fill out a survey form, available at http://www.dsu.edu/academics/tutoring/evaluation.aspx. Please feel free to discuss questions or concerns with your tutor and/or the Tutoring Coordinator.

How can I become a tutor?

New tutors are hired in November for the spring semester and April for the fall semester (depending on need). If you are interested in becoming a tutor, contact the Tutoring Coordinator for more information. To qualify as a tutor, students must have successfully completed the course(s) they intend to tutor with a grade of A or B or have equivalent documented experience, be able to explain concepts effectively, and possess excellent communication and study skills.