Free Online Tutoring and Coaching Now Available to Students

LEXINGTON, Ky. (April 13, 2020) — The transition to online learning is underway, and did you know that many of the same campus resources are still available to you virtually? UKNow has partnered with Transformative Learning’s peer tutors and academic coaches to answer some of your questions about the transition to online tutoring and the efforts that Academic Coaching is making to assist students during this time.

The Study is offering drop-in tutoring from 4-8 p.m. Monday through Thursday. What should a student do if these hours do not work with their schedule?

“If you can't make it to drop-in tutoring from 4-8 p.m., there is an option to schedule appointments with a peer tutor through UK’s Tutor Matching Service portal.” -Jenna, MA 111 tutor.

Note: The Study offers 30- to 60-minute one-on-one appointments from 2-10 p.m. Sunday through Thursday. For more information, click here.

Will all the same subjects be offered online during drop-in tutoring?

“There is an adjusted schedule for online tutoring. This can be found online at uky.edu/thestudy/schedule. Simply select your subject and see what times are available for you.” -Abby, MA 123 tutor.

How has Academic Coaching changed now that we have transitioned to online learning?

“The main change Academic Coaching has made is shifting to all online appointments. You can still meet with an Academic Coach — it will just be over Zoom!” -Travis, Academic Coach

Are group coaching appointments also available online?

“Yes, group coaching is still available? We have the following group coaching appointments available:

• April 14-16 and 22-23 (Topic: Studying for Finals)
• April 28-30 (Topic: Self-care During Finals)

For more details, including times and sign up info, visit uky.edu/acadcoach/group-coaching.” -Travis, Academic Coach

 What tips do you have for succeeding in large lectures now that they are online?

“Attend the Zoom lecture every day, even if you are tired! Staying on a set schedule is important so that you don’t fall behind in your classes.” -Jenna, Peer Tutor

“Learning online can be a huge adjustment. Remember to be patient, organized and diligent in your studies. Create a routine to help you stay motivated and focused.” -Abby, Peer Tutor

Do you have any advice for how to create a good study environment in our homes?

“Try to find a room that fits your needs. It may be beneficial to communicate these needs to everyone you live with so that they can try to cooperate. Remember, you cannot control everything. Try to focus on the factors you can control like which room to study in and what time of day you choose to study.” -Travis, Academic Coach

What other tutoring and coaching resources have gone virtual? Where can I find them?

“Many of the tutoring and coaching resources you used on campus have gone virtual. For a list of available tutoring and coaching services, click here.” -Travis, Academic Coach

I need help with technology. What resources are available to me?

“UK Information Technology Services is working really hard to accommodate everyone’s needs. You can reach them at 859-218-4357 or 218help@uky.edu.” -Travis, Academic Coach

I am having trouble staying motivated for online classes. What can I do to mentally get back on track?

“Take some time to reflect on your goals and your values. How does what you are currently doing contribute to your long-term goals and values? What can you do differently to mindfully incorporate your values into your studying and coursework? For help brainstorming some strategies, be sure to sign up for an appointment with Academic Coaching here!” -Travis, Academic Coach

Now that we have transitioned to online learning, I get lots of emails about changing courses to a pass/fail option. What does this mean? Will it affect my GPA?

“Pass/Fail options allow for an all-or-nothing result in the course. To receive class credit, you need to pass the class. However, receiving a "pass" does not affect your GPA. Medical schools and other graduate programs may not want your transcript to include pass/fail classes, though. Before you decide to make a class pass/fail, be sure to have a conversation with your academic advisor about the pros and cons. Your academic advisors are still available for Zoom appointments!” -Travis, Academic Coach

In addition to Transformative Learning, Presentation U is also currently offering online tutoring — both live, face-to-face tutoring via Zoom and asynchronous eTutoring appointments. 

Along with supporting students with their writing, speeches and presentations, Presentation U is also available to help students who are struggling to get the hang of being online learners or need help practicing with Zoom. Students who would like peer support for how to navigate a Canvas shell, submit assignments electronically, deliver presentations via Zoom or manage their academic life in this weird scenario are encouraged to make appointments with Presentation U. Tutors are happy to walk with students through any struggles they are having. To make an appointment with Presentation U, visit its website or email presentationu@uky.edu for more information.

For a full list of tutoring centers who have migrated their services online, click here.