Frequently Asked Questions

What is a match?
A match is a tutor and student who become “learning partners”.
How are tutors and students matched?
Several factors are considered when making a tutor/student match, such as: age appropriate-ness; gender (a tutor or student may indicate a preference); interest; available time and/or schedule flexibility.
How long does it take for a tutor to be matched?
Ideally, a tutor is matched with a student within several weeks of completing their Tutor Training workshop. However, other factors often affect the partnering of tutor and student. For example: Are both tutor/student available at the same time? Are there transportation or meeting location issues? Is a “potential” match really the “best” match for the student or tutor?
How are tutors introduced to a new student?
Prior to the initial meeting, an OCLC staff person will discuss the student’s history with the tutor. The student and tutor meet with an OCLC staff person, either in the office or at a mutually agreed upon location. The tutor and student are introduced on a first name basis.
Where and how often do tutors meet with their students?
Scheduling for best time and location are discussed during the initial meeting between the OCLC staff, tutor, and student.

OCLC recommends that as a tutor you work with your student a minimumof once or twice a week for a period of an hour to an hour and a half.

It is important to meet in a safe and learning-friendly environment. We discourage tutors meeting in their homes or in the homes of their students. However, we do encourage meeting in public places like a church, library, community facility or at one of OCLC’s offices.
How do tutors determine the literacy level at which to begin work with their student?
A trained OCLC staff person administers a series of tests with each student to determine the level of the student’s literacy needs.

The OCLC staff person and new tutor will meet to review a student’s assessment scores and determine several approaches for the tutor to begin work with their student. The staff person may recommend materials or suggest resources for the tutor to best meet their student’s needs.
What do I do if I think my student has a learning disability?
Consult the OCLC staff person trained in student assessments.

Following a brief discussion related to the student’s goals, the tutor and student talk for a brief period. Based on the success of the initial meeting, OCLC staff will take into account all important factors and appropriately match tutor to student based on this information.
Who pays for materials and books?
OCLC has limited resource materials that it lends out to both tutors and students. Tutors encourage students to pay for their books whenever possible as part of their own investment in their “learning partnership.”

Note: Not all students are able to contribute financially.
When I think a student needs more than basic literacy instruction, What do I do?
Consult the OCLC staff person trained in student assessments.
How do I determine when it is time for my student and I to complete our partnership?
There are several ways to determine when your student is ready to graduate or end the partnership:
  • All goals have been achieved.
  • The student no longer wishes to continue.
  • The student cannot progress any further.
  • OR, the student is ready for an ABE or GED class.
How long does it take to teach someone to read?
Predicting the length of time it takes for a student to learn to read varies from one student to the next. The benefit of OCLC’s program is that lesson planning and instruction are structured toward the student’s particular need, pace, and through individualized means that motivate the student.
If my student asks for help outside the area of literacy instruction, what should I do?
Consult with the OCLC administrative staff.