Two models are presented. The first illustrates five concentric spheres influencing tutor-learner relationships (personal, organizational, local, national, and international factors) affected by gender, race, and class. The second model charts positive and negative effects of these factors on the relationship. (SK)

Argues that writing centers have the essential function of critiquing institutions and creating knowledge about writing. Explains how this function has clear implications for what tutors should know and how they should be trained. Enlists Antonio Gramsci's theory of culture to analyze traditional composition teaching and research. (HB)

Describes how graffiti is a useful analogy providing a fresh source of power for reimagining the function and purpose of writing centers. Explains the necessity of defining writing centers as a subculture. Identifies a distinct writing center discursive style that mediates between official classroom pedagogy and unofficial writing center praxis.…

An open learning course for tutor training in Kent (England) uses a loose-leaf file of instructional materials, a tape, and coursebook for home study. Other features are personal mentors, workshops, observation of other classes and being observed while teaching, and access to resources. (SK)

Reviews trade union education practices in the Netherlands, roles of volunteer tutors, and types of support they need. Develops a model for support environments ranging from structural (extra strong, medium strong, and strong support) to incidental (light support). (SK)

After receiving training and support materials, volunteer instructors with no previous subject matter expertise (n=4) were found to be as effective as subject experts (n=4) in teaching health and nutrition education classes in a Healthy Mothers/Healthy Babies program. (SK)

A British study comparing the Kent Open Learning (KOL) tutor training with standard tutor training showed a significant increase in student-centered attitudes among tutors in KOL. (SK)

Critiques a recent book by Madeleine R. Grumet called "Bitter Milk: Women and Teaching." Shows how Grumet's thesis is useful for writing center workers, insofar as both claim that knowledge evolves in the context of human relationships. (HB)

Describes what reading coaches do (provide literacy enrichment without emphasizing the diagnostic and intervention aspects of reading), how this differs from reading tutors, and how reading coaches can help with literacy development in schools. Discusses activities for reading coaches, and benefits of a reading coach program. (SR)

Discusses concerns surrounding the future of writing centers. Claims that although most institutions have writing centers, they are generally underfunded, the staff is comprised of underpaid student workers, and the centers are not institutionally viable. (NH)

Discusses the use of personal tutors to support nursing students. Considers the time implications of adopting an all-encompassing tutor role in the current climate of higher education. (SK)

Presents a case study of two college tutors that demonstrates the importance for writing instructors and tutors to engage in collaborative reflection to identify and examine their frame of reference, including their assumptions, beliefs, values and practices. Finds that the tutors' interpretation of writing instructors' authority influenced…

Key ingredients for achieving academic success include being prepared, taking responsibility for one's learning, making an effort, and completing homework every day. At Shaker Heights (Ohio) Middle School, after-school programs (academic sessions, a homework center, a homework hotline, and a university tutorial program) help students complete…

With structure and support, volunteers can be a great resource for after-school programs. Program managers should train volunteers with specific information, provide appropriate teaching strategies and materials, put important information in writing, match volunteers appropriately, facilitate icebreaker activities, respect volunteers' time, stress…

The Home Tutor Scheme is an Australian program that delivers tutoring in migrants' homes, assisting them with resettlement. Volunteer tutor training includes orientation to the migrant experience, cross-cultural awareness, needs-based teaching, adult learning principles, and use of language in contexts relevant to learners. (SK)