Peer Tutoring Mission, Vision, Values, & Learning Goals

Our Mission Statement

The Peer Tutoring Program empowers students to receive the individualized assistance they need to become independent and confident learners while developing peer tutors as compassionate educators and campus leaders. Through one-on-one subject-area tutoring, we create a supportive third space that bridges the gap between students and academic expectations. Our trained undergraduate tutors guide students through the transition to college-level learning, helping them navigate course content, adapt to new expectations, and build the confidence needed for academic success.

Our Vision Statement

We envision a campus where everyone understands the power of peer learning and regularly participates in peer tutoring, regardless of their level of understanding. We see a community where seeking academic support is normalized as part of the learning process, where students feel confident asking for help, and where peer educators develop the skills and compassion needed to guide others through their academic journey.

Our Core Values

1. Third Space Navigation

We serve as a bridge between students and professors, offering a unique perspective that comes from shared student experience. Our tutors have successfully navigated the courses and expectations they now help others understand, providing insider knowledge about how college learning works while maintaining the relatability that comes from being fellow students.

2. Individualized Support

We meet students where they are, not where we think they should be. Through honest conversation and patient guidance, we recognize that students bring diverse educational backgrounds and experiences to their learning. We adapt our approach to match each student's needs, pace, and learning style, creating space for students to express what they know and what they're uncertain about.

3. Peer Learning

We believe in the transformative power of peer-to-peer interaction. Students offer each other perspectives, strategies, and encouragement that differ from what professors can provide. Our peer tutors leverage their recent experience with course content and their understanding of student challenges to create meaningful learning connections.

4. Transition and Adaptation

We support students as they adapt to college-level thinking, expectations, and learning strategies. Recognizing that successful high school strategies don't always translate to college success, we help students develop the flexibility and skills needed to thrive in their academic journey, particularly during the crucial first and second years.

5. Honest Dialogue

We create safe, non-judgmental spaces where students can honestly communicate their understanding and confusion. Because peer tutors are not responsible for grading, students can feel more comfortable expressing their challenges and working through difficult concepts without fear of academic penalty.

 

Our Peer Tutoring Learning Goals

Connected to our Mission Statement are benchmarks associated with learning and development as a tutor in the Peer Tutoring Program. These goals guide our orientation, ongoing training, and staff meetings.

Effective Communication and Teaching

Tutors will develop skills to explain complex concepts clearly, listen actively to student concerns, and adapt their teaching approach to meet diverse learning needs.

  • Break down complex subject matter into understandable components
  • Use multiple approaches to explain the same concept when students need different perspectives
  • Demonstrate active listening to accurately assess student understanding and confusion
  • Adapt explanations based on student feedback and learning style

Academic Navigation and Mentorship

Tutors will develop skills to guide students through college-level academic expectations while drawing on their own successful experiences.

  • Help students understand course expectations and academic standards
  • Share effective study strategies and time management techniques
  • Guide students in developing independence and confidence in their academic abilities
  • Provide insight into professor expectations and course navigation

Cultural Responsiveness and Inclusion

Tutors will develop skills to work effectively with students from diverse educational backgrounds while creating inclusive learning environments.

  • Recognize and respect the varied educational experiences students bring to college
  • Understand how different prior experiences may impact student preparation and confidence
  • Create welcoming environments where all students feel supported regardless of their starting point
  • Adapt tutoring approaches to be culturally responsive and inclusive

Empathy and Emotional Intelligence

Tutors will develop skills to understand and respond to the emotional dimensions of learning while maintaining appropriate boundaries.

  • Recognize that learning involves both cognitive and emotional processes
  • Demonstrate patience and understanding when students face academic challenges
  • Provide encouragement and support that builds student confidence
  • Understand when to refer students to additional campus resources

Professional Development and Leadership

Tutors will develop skills that prepare them for future academic and professional success while serving as campus leaders.

  • Demonstrate reliability and accountability in their tutoring responsibilities
  • Develop teaching and mentoring skills that translate to future contexts
  • Build confidence in their ability to support and guide others
  • Contribute to a campus culture that values peer learning and academic support

Peer Tutors