MT2C Embedded Tutors

The MT2C Embedded Tutor Program is designed to be the best possible peer-assisted study sessions that make the most effective use of everyone's time: students, Embedded Tutors (ETs), and professors. ET sessions are directly after the normal class session and are regularly-scheduled, informal, creative, and fun review sessions in which students compare notes, discuss readings, develop organizational tools, and predict test items. Students learn how to integrate course content and study skills while working together. The sessions are facilitated by ETs, students who have previously done well in the course and who attend all class lectures, take notes, and act as model students.

Benefits of working with the MT2C Embedded Tutoring Program:

• Students in your class will have the extra support of a ET to help navigate the course
• Students--and particularly those who are traditionally underserved and underrepresented--will benefit from equity-centered tutoring practices
• ETs are self-directed and will run the study sessions based off of classroom notes
• Students do not need to pay or buy additional material for th tutoring sessions. Using a ET is a free service offered to all students in the targeted course.
• Professors strengthen their own network and pedagogical approaches through professional learning and trainings within the Embedded Tutoring program.

Faculty FAQ

What extra work is required of me if I were to attach a ET section to my class?
The instructors who have had a ET section report that there is actually less work than in a regular class because of the reduction in workload due to the assistance of the ET. As a participant in the program, you are expected to attend professional learning opportunities focusing on equity-minded teaching/tutoring practices every semester. You will also be communicating on a regular basis with your ET  (that communication can be face-to-face, via e- mail, or by phone). 

Will the ET  follow my lesson plan and respect my teaching methods?
Yes! One of the main reasons to have the ET  attend all classes is so that the ET  will know exactly what you cover, how you cover it, and when you cover it. This is one of the major benefits of the ET Program. The tutor instruction your students receive will be consistent with your class and your voice. ETs are closely supervised and evaluated. Ongoing training is also provided.

Can I ask the ET  to grade my papers?
No. While like a TA (teaching assistant) in terms of additional support for the students in class in a smaller group setting, ETs are not true TAs. ETs do not grade homework or exams, however ETs are privy to those results if the instructor so chooses.

Can I direct my ET  to cover specific topics in the ET sessions?
Yes! The two-way communication you establish with your ET is so crucial. For example, one semester, after grading homework on probability, one math instructor found that her class in general had problems with the multiplication rule. She immediately shared this with her ET, who was then able to give extra attention to that topic in ET session.

Can I give the students extra credit for attending ET sessions?
No. Firstly, student participation is voluntary. Students should realize the benefits of attending ET on their own. Second, ET sessions are scheduled to accommodate as many students as possible (majority rules). However, there will be a group of students whose schedules will not permit ET attendance. Therefore, because not every student has the opportunity to attend, no extra credit can be given. Note: experience has shown that the students who cannot attend ET will soon make contact with those who can to find out what was covered in ET sessions.

What if I realize several weeks into the semester that I really don’t like ET? Can I opt out at that time if I feel that ET is not benefiting my students?
ETs have been in existence for over 3 decades and has proven to be a successful program for achieving positive student outcomes. If concerns about your ET arises during the semester, please contact the ET Coordinator for additional support.

I'm interested in having a CT.  How can I let you know?

Look out for a campus-wide email from Dante Jones. Each semester, Mesa Faculty are invited via email to request an embedded tutor for their course(s).

If you have any questions, please contact the MT2C Embedded Tutor Program Coordinator:

Dante Jones: djones@sdccd.edu