On This Page: Who are our tutors? Student Counselling

Adult learners normally have more fears and concerns than traditional younger students when it comes to further education. A skillful tutor devotes some time to reducing these fears while assisting them to develop a strong interest in the courses by connecting their goals for the future and working experiences with the course materials.

Besides directing WOU students to be independent learners, tutoring gives the students an opportunity to consolidate their understanding of their courses. It further provides an environment for the students to discuss their ideas with peers and for the exchange of ideas.

The three main reasons why tutor support is critical in sustaining our learners at WOU are because we are aware that open distance learners tend to face the following challenges:

• Study and learning difficulties.
• Interacting at a distance.
• Personal problems.

Thus, the WOU's tutorial and support system will focus on the following areas:

• Breaking down the students' isolation, e.g. through tutorials, online conferences, newsletter, radio programmes.
• Responding to particular problems, e.g. via tutors' advice on time management or planning assignments.
• Building up the students' study skills and self-confidence, e.g. by the direct teaching of study skills or through encouraging reflective learning.

Our tutors are recruited from universities and private institutions of higher learning as well as from the industry. They are experienced academicians, administrators or managers with good academic credentials; some amongst them hold master’s and doctorate degrees. Tutors provide you with a personal touch through face-to-face sessions, the marking of assignments, telephone tutoring, and on-line support. In addition tutors and students collaborate on the Learning Management System (LMS) through e-forums and emails. Intensive training is provided to tutors so that you can benefit from their vast experience. Our tutors are versatile in managing and counseling you to achieve your maximum potential.

Click here if you are interested in being our tutor.

Our tutors are trained to counsel students under their charge, and they are expected to:

• lead discussion and provide clarification on issues related to the courses. 
• mark your assignments, provide feedback and advise you as well as monitor your progress. 
• foster collaborative learning and support among you and your peers.
• act as study counselors and bring in an interpersonal element into your learning process.