A conversation about tutoring: straight talk about the Sylvan Learning Center method

With Richard E. Bavaria, Ph.D., Vice President of Education, Sylvan Learning Center

Dr. Richard Bavaria answers educators' frequently asked questions about the Sylvan Learning Center method.

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Q. What is the Sylvan approach to tutoring?

A. The Sylvan model of tutoring is a proven, research-based methodology that includes a skills assessment, highly Qualified teachers, individualized learning, customized learning plans, and years of practical results.

When students come to a Sylvan Learning Center, they are given the Sylvan Skills Assessment[R]--a uniQue combination of nationally recognized tests. Based on the results, Sylvan's education experts create a program for each student based on his or her individual needs. Students receive one-on-one instruction from their tutors and also benefit from independent study and peer interaction. Our Mastery Learning method enables children to master a subject by building on what they've already learned. Finally, our uniQue motivational program and positive reinforcement help students discover that learning is not only rewarding, but fun too.

Q. Who are Sylvan's tutors?

A. Most of our tutors are certified classroom teachers who teach during the day and tutor after school. They like tutoring at Sylvan because it offers the pure joy of teaching one-on-one, with the support of Sylvan's proven process.

Q. How does Sylvan keep classroom teachers informed of their students' progress?

A. At Sylvan, we believe communication with teachers is essential. We build a relationship that allows teachers to stay engaged with Sylvan because we know that regular progress reports for teachers are integral to a student's academic success.

Q. Do you have a favorite success story?

A. Sylvan has helped more than two million children, so it would be difficult to select just one. As educators, we've all seen students who struggle academically or who aren't challenged enough. They get frustrated and often don't feel good about themselves. The individualized attention, personalized lesson plans, and positive reinforcement they receive at Sylvan help them develop the skills, confidence, and love of learning that last a lifetime.

Q. How does Sylvan help classroom teachers?

A. Sylvan supports classroom teachers' efforts by complementing classroom-based learning. In addition, since many of us at Sylvan are, or were, classroom teachers, we understand that teachers need resources. That's why our educator Web site (http://teachers.educate.com) provides programs like Book Adventure--a free online reading motivation program--as well as educational research, Quizzes to share with parents, and dozens of other tools and activities that inspire teachers and students alike.

Q. What would you like classroom teachers to know about Sylvan?

A. We respect teachers and want them to see us as a partner and a resource. When we all work together--Sylvan Learning Center, teachers, parents, and students--we can make a significant difference in the lives of those students. At Sylvan Learning Center, everything we do is focused on helping students succeed.

Visit http://teachers.educate.com for more information about Sylvan and to receive a 20% discount card from The Scholastic Store Online, a Sylvan partner.

CIRCLE NO. 46 ON THE TEACHER ACTION CARD

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