A Guide for the Development of Policies and Procedures

Purpose:

To tutor an adult learner or a small group of learners in reading, writing, and in some cases, basic math.

Job Description: Sample

set goals and plan a learning program with the student
find and prepare teaching material that suits the student’s ability, goals and interests
tutor the student once a week at the Centre (in subjects that may include reading, writing, math, computer skills and life skills)
maintain a positive, warm attitude that encourages the student to learn
tell staff at the Centre about changes in meeting times
complete weekly tutor reports
discuss the student’s progress with the Tutor Coordinator; discuss problems/issues when they arise
attend various in-service workshops and tutor discussion groups after tutoring begins
keep a record of hours volunteered with the Centre.

Reporting to:

The Tutor Coordinator.

Requirements:

a patient, open-minded, flexible attitude
willingness to try new and creative ways of teaching
an understanding of the student-centred approach to teaching and learning
good verbal skills; good listening skills
the ability to work independently and provide support to the student
good basic skills in reading, writing and/or basic math
the ability to be on time for weekly appointments
respect for confidentiality
basic computer skills (helpful but not absolutely necessary)
completion of tutor training (some tutors may begin tutoring before tutor training is finished, depending on their experience and at the discretion of staff.)

Time required

two hours of tutoring per week
one half to one hour per week of planning and preparation
long range: one year commitment preferred (minimum of eight months)
12 hours of basic tutor training; 4-6 hours of workshops per year after tutoring begins.

(Reprinted with kind permission of Kingston Literacy)