WHAT WE DO
The Elmhurst College Learning Center is an academic unit providing a variety of services to Elmhurst College students. The philosophy of the Center is "learning how to learn." In other words, activities are designed to help each student succeed as an independent learner.
Students can receive one-on-one tutoring in math, reading, writing, and study skills areas. Workshops are offered as demand dictates. Assistance is also provided for those seeking admission to graduate school and professional school as well as resumes and personal statements. Workshops may also be offered in classroom settings.
TYPES OF RESOURCES
The Learning Center has resources in print, video cassette, audio cassette, and computer software. Students planning to enter graduate school have found the GRE preparation software to be especially helpful. Most materials can be checked out by students for personal use. In addition, there are numerous handouts available for students.(See Examples.)
SPECIALISTS
In addition to the Director of the Learning Center, there are two specialists available to assist students. The Math Specialist provides assistance in all areas of math - basic math to differential equations and statistics. The Reading Specialist assists students in improving reading, vocabulary, and study skills and works with students in test taking skills and reading/writing assignments from all disciplines.
OTHER SERVICES
Learning Center personnel can also assist students in drafting letters of application, personal statements, and short biographies. These forms of writing are frequently required in the process of seeking graduate school admittance, assistantships, and professional memberships.
QUICKIE QUESTIONS
The quickie question/answer(one minute to 30 minutes) is another staple of the Learning Center personnel. Previous questions have included the following.
"How do I document this Internet source?"
"When do I use who and whom?"
"Do you have any ESL resources?"
"Any handouts to help me organize my time better?"
"Anything to help me get geometry?"
"Suggestions for helping sixth graders(my service learning)?"
Learning Center staff will always try to answer your questions and there are NO silly or dumb questions.
TALKING AND LISTENING
The Learning Center also tends to be a good spot to meet for individual study or to set plans for forming a regular study group. (See Forming A Study Group for more information.) On the other hand, it is the home of listeners. Sometimes we all just need to talk it out whether it be to understand an assignment, a returned test, a plan of action to improve study habits, or simply how the day is progressing.
ATMOSPHERE
Finally, the Learning Center promotes a friendly atmosphere. All staff members like to give and to receive a friendly hello. News of the day and current jokes are also exchanged. We also provide the important "stuff" of a student's college career such as free candy, the loan of a stapler, or even the time of day. So, stop by the Learning Center and find out for yourself what we really do.
ELIGIBILITY FOR SERVICES
The Elmhurst College Learning Center is open to all students enrolled at ELmhurst College - full time and part time, undergraduate and graduate. All services are free of charge.
Learning Center staff are available for consultation with any faculty member in regard to learning resources and/or student assistance. We also do lunch and coffee.