Tutor and tutorial support
Adult learners normally have more fears and concerns than
traditional younger students when it comes to further education.
A skilful 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:
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Study and learning difficulties.
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Interacting at a distance.
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Personal problems.
Thus, the WOU's tutorial and support system will focus on the
following areas:
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Breaking down the students' isolation, e.g. through
tutorials, online conferences, newsletter, radio
programmes.
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Responding to particular problems, e.g. via tutors'
advice on time management or planning assignments.
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Building up the students' study skills and
self-confidence, e.g. by the direct teaching of study
skills or through encouraging reflective learning.
Who are our tutors? 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.
Student counselling
Our tutors are trained to counsel students under their charge,
and they are expected to:
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lead discussion and provide clarification on issues
related to the courses.
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mark your assignments, provide feedback and advise you
as well as monitor your progress.
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foster collaborative learning and support among you and
your peers.
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act as study counsellors and bring in an interpersonal
element into your learning process.
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