What is the Learning Center?
The Learning Center is a place where all students, including freshmen through graduate students, can develop approaches for more efficient and effective learning.
Is tutoring online or in-person?
Both! When signing up for a tutor, you will go to my.bsu.edu and click on “Navigate” in the Additional Tools section. You can also download the "Navigate Student" app for Apple or Google Play, or simply visit https://bsu.navigate.eab.com. You can select an online or in-person appointment.
Are the tutors volunteers?
Tutors are hired through the Career Center, and tutoring is a great paid position to have on campus!.
Do Ball State students using the Learning Center earn as high a GPA as other students?
Actually, freshmen using the Learning Center services earn higher GPAs than students who are not using the Learning Center.
Do the tutors receive any special training?
Yes. The tutors receive paid training through the College Reading and Learning Association's certified tutor training program, which the director and the three professional staff coordinators arrange.
How long do tutoring appointments last?
Tutoring appointments last 45 to 50 minutes.
How many Ball State University students use the Learning Center services each academic year?
More than 4,000 Ball State students use the Learning Center each academic year.
How would I arrange for a tutoring appointment?
Go to my.bsu.edu and click on Navigate, or download the "Navigate Student" app for Apple or Google Play.
I am interested in getting a tutor, but I really do not want my instructor to know that I am using a Learning Center tutor. Is that possible?
The Learning Center respects confidentiality. We do not notify instructors that their students are using the Learning Center services. The choice is yours if you wish to tell an instructor that you are using a tutor.
May I have a weekly appointment for the whole semester?
You may make an appointment each week or whenever you need it.
What are the hours of the Learning Center?
Tutoring is open Monday-Thursday, 10am-8pm, and Friday, 10am-2pm. during the academic year. Summer hours are Monday-Friday, 10am-4pm.
What happens during a tutoring session?
Tutors are trained to use a wide variety of tutoring techniques. These include note review, problem solving, discussion, practice tests, games, and visuals. No two tutoring sessions are identical. Tutors are very adaptable and will try to meet your specific tutoring needs. It is expected that you will be an active participant in the session.
What if a tutor and I don't seem to be on the same wave length?
Please call 765-285-3780. We will strive to arrange for you to meet with a different tutor. You can also book a different tutor using Navigate.
What if I need to cancel my appointment?
You can cancel your appointment using Navigate. You can also call 765-285-3780. See our website for instructions.
What is SI?
Supplemental Instruction (SI) is attached to specific courses which are historically difficult. The SI leader attends class sessions and then holds voluntary out-of-class study sessions. These SI sessions are conducted regularly and begin the second week of class. Course content is integrated with learning strategies. The SI leader is trained in specific teaching/learning theories and techniques. The SI program is supervised by a trained professional staff member. The SI program is offered only in classes in which the faculty member invites and supports SI.
What should I bring to my tutoring appointment?
Please bring your course syllabus, notes, and textbook.
Where is the Learning Center located?
North Quad 350, southwest corner of Riverside and McKinley. The Learning Center is on the third floor; the same floor which houses First-Year Academic Advising.
Who are the tutors?
Tutors are upperclassmen who have earned a 3.00 or higher grade point average. They have already completed the courses for which they tutor. Professors have recommended them from their respective academic departments. Some positions require that the tutors complete a specific course or pass an examination demonstrating their competency.
Will I have an opportunity to evaluate my tutor and the Learning Center services?
Yes. Students will have the opportunity to evaluate their tutors and the Learning Center. We appreciate the feedback that we receive from students and have changed Learning Center services based on this feedback.
Will there be a cost to use the Learning Center services?
No, all Learning Center services are free to any Ball State student.