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The Writing Center Tutoring Program (WCTP)
in Mathematics and Science

The Writing Center Tutoring Program offers assistance to those needing help in introductory courses in biology, physics, mathematics, and chemistry, on a first-come, first-served basis. This program is meant for those who have used the primary channels of academic assistance (talking with the professor, attending help sessions, etc.) and are still having problems grasping course materials and concepts. The following "Frequently Asked Questions" and their answers explain what to expect from the Writing Center Tutoring Program and your tutor.

Why does the Writing Center offer tutoring in sciences and math?
Good question. If you're interested in the background/history of this program, click here.

What steps should I take if I need help in an introductory math, biology, chemistry or physics class?

• Consult your instructor. We believe that the professor teaching the course is your best "tutor." Don't be afraid to ask for help. The instructor knows where you are having trouble and can best explain what is expected of you in the class.
• Consult with teaching assistants assigned to the course. These students are selected by the department for their ability in the subject and their familiarity with course materials. Often, they are also familiar with the instructor's teaching methods, and thus are well suited to helping students through difficulties in the course.
• Attend the help sessions (if available). Attend more than one help session before giving up. Get involved, and ask questions. Taking an active role in your own learning process can make a big difference.
• If you are still having trouble in the course, obtain a Tutor Request Form from the Writing Center's main office, Roberts 100A. Once you and your professor have completed the form and you have returned it to the Writing Center, you will be assigned a tutor as soon as one is available.

Once a tutor is assigned to me, then what?
The next available tutor in your subject will be given your name, contact information, and a summary of the comments the instructor writes on your Tutor Request Form. The tutor will then contact you to set up an initial meeting. If you need help with homework, you should do as much of the assignment on your own as possible before meeting with the tutor. Doing this will allow the two of you to spend your time together focusing on the areas in which you really need help.

Where and how often you meet with your tutor will be worked out between the two of you. Because the number of tutors is limited, it's important that you respond right away when a tutor first gets in touch with you, and to all communications from from your tutor. If you wait too long, the tutor may assume you are no longer interested and ask to be assigned to another client.

If you request a tutor and no one contacts you within a reasonable amount of time, please contact the Writing Center. Sometimes there are not enough tutors available to help everyone who asks, but sometimes tutors have tried repeatedly to contact clients who do not use e-mail, are not receiving phone messages in a timely manner, etc. In such cases, if the Writing Center staff knows there has been a delay, we can let the tutor know if there is a better way of reaching you.

If you have further questions, please contact the Writing Center, 577-3141.

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Writing Center
100A Roberts Hall
phone: (570) 577-3141
© Bucknell University 2002
comments to: Sabrina Kirby
last updated: 03/08/2004