How to Start and End A Tutoring Session

DeLandra Hunter, Associate DirectorEXCEL Center for Academic Success

Be A LOOSERRemember Conversation and Body Language

Lean in towards the tutee; approach the tutee

Offer hospitalityOpen posture, legs not

crossed, arms not crossedSmile, nodEye contactRelax

The First Session

• Be Prepared• Introduce Yourself• Find out about the student:

reasons for tutoring• Set agenda/goals for the

session• Organize the session as needed

with the student• Start with the easy stuff first;

let tutee answer easy questions

Subsequent Sessions

• Ask how the student is doing, but don’t allow the conversation to get off topic by other issues

• Set goals for the session• Begin with a short review, if

relevant• Organize the session as

needed with the student• Ask open-ended questions

Tutoring is a conversation...

Research shows that to be effective, the tutor should talk 30% or less of the time in any session.

Ending a Session

• Try to start closing the session about 5 minutes before the time is up

• Briefly summarize what was done, or have the tutee summarize

• Set goals before next session

• Always end the session with a positive comment

After the Session

• Make some notes so you remember what was covered and what will happen at the next session.

• Spend some time evaluating the session for yourself. Consider what was successful and what was not successful. What could you do that would make the session more valuable.

Questions