Center for Study of Literacy offers computer-assisted tutoring

(Tahlequah, Okla.)--Whether a student is apprehensive about a course or a individual seeks skills enhancement or a GED, Northeastern State Universitys Center for the Study of Literacy can help.

The Center for the Study of Literacy uses multi-level learning software to offer tutoring in a range of subjects, including reading, writing, basic math, algebra, trigonometry, calculus, chemistry, physics, social studies, Spanish, Japanese and Mandarin Chinese.

Our basic tutoring program can assist learning levels from 1st through 12th grades, said Steven Rice, center technical specialist. Historically we have helped people in the community attain their GEDs, but it is important for people to understand our services are available to anybody.

The center is open to the campus and the community and services are free. A policy of open entry and exit allows learners to work at their own pace.

A student may come in for a couple of days, or an adult learner may visit us for many years, but six months may pass between a pair of visits, Rice said. Some people even come to us just to learn something for fun.

All instruction at the center is done on computers with the exception of a pencil and paper test.

We use the tests for adult basic education to determine grade equivalency aptitudes, Rice said. From there we put them into the appropriate materials for all subjects our learners wish to study.

Literacy center students are always eager to learn, self-motivated and need little instruction, Rice said.

They really take off, he said. I might work with a client once, twice, three times to show them how to use the computer, and afterward Im in the way. The centers staff are facilitators, not teachers.

Rice has been with the center since its opening in 1989. He said the computer has always fascinated him as a learning tool.

The computer never gets angry or sad; admittedly it doesn't get joyful either, he said. It just presents the material to you and, if programmed correctly, can give you very good responses and immediate feedback. The user can progress without waiting for a class or instructor.

Calling the Center for the Study of Literacy an excellent service, Rice encouraged NSU students and the people of Tahlequah to discover what the center offers.

Students uneasy about courses they need to take can come to us beforehand, review our materials so that the information comes back to them, or they're a little bit ahead or a little more relaxed, he said. For people in the community, we can help them further their education or practice skills to they can feel more confident walking into a job interview. We are happy to have people come in to use our resources.

The Center for the Study of Literacy is in Room 118 of the John Vaughan Library. Hours are 8 a.m. 5 p.m. Monday through Friday. For more information call 918-444-3313, toll free at 1-800-879-0987.