|
| Potential Problems |  Tutee thinks you can perform miracles
PROBLEM: The student does not want to take responsibility for his/her own actions.
TUTOR RESPONSE: Be patient with the tutee. Always remind of the need for him/her to find the answer independently. Do not forget to give control back to the learner. Tell him/her hold the pencil, and look up information himself/herself. Highlight his/hers role and de-emphasize yours. Lay emphasis on what the learner is doing that is contributing to his/her success.
Tutee blames you for bad grades
PROBLEM: The student does not want to take responsibility for his/her own actions.
TUTOR RESPONSE: Don't argue. Let the tutee know you are there to guide him/her, but are not ultimately responsible for his/her grades. You should only give earned reinforcement during sessions to avoid this situation. Also remember to not overstate improvement. Over exaggeration will result in false test expectations. During sessions, you should point out things that will need to be reviewed and worked on in order to have better results on tests.
Student lies to you about what he know, understand, how he did in class, etc.
PROBLEM: The student is too proud or defensive to let you know the truth. He/she is afraid to let you down after both of you worked so hard.
TUTOR RESPONSE: Don't force the problem. Look for ways the student can show his/her knowledge on the subject.
Student talks about personal problems instead of school work.
PROBLEM: 1.) The student may have many serious problems and concerns; or 2.) the student is avoiding the work involved with tutoring.
TUTOR RESPONSE: 1.) If the problems seem serious and repeatedly distract from a session, refer the student to a TASC staff member or 2.) Concentrate on the tutee's areas of concern in school work, and develop guidelines for both of you.
Student comes to a session under influence of alcohol or drugs.
TUTOR RESPONSE: Politely finish the session. Ask one for help, if needed.
Student doesn't think you are competent
PROBLEM: The student may work with other tutor for a long time and be used him. People don't like changes. The student may also be in denial of the serious problems he/she is facing academically. If he/she can persuade himself/herself that you can't assist him/her, he/she can then use tutoring as an excuse for not doing well: "You wasted my time".
TUTOR RESPONSE: It is better not to take it personally. Be ready to speak about your qualifications in a matter-of-fact way. Also, you may deal with the tutee's bluff. After discussing the problem, inquire if he/she would like to have another tutor.
|
|
