Frequently Asked Questions
You can make a difference in an adult’s life by becoming a volunteer tutor. Volunteers who complete tutor training are those who directly teach and support our adult learners. They are the backbone of our organization. Literacy Volunteers – Pitt County depends greatly on volunteers to carry out our mission of improving the literacy climate of our community.
How do I become a tutor?
All volunteer tutors are trained in specially designed workshops as either Adult Basic Literacy or English as a Second Language tutors. The curriculum addresses topics such as working with an adult learner, effective teaching strategies and techniques, what materials to use, how to set goals with learners, and lesson planning.
Call the office at 252-353-6578 or send an e-mail to info@pittliteracy.org to be placed on the mailing list for the next workshop schedule.
What’s the difference between Adult Basic Literacy and English as a Second Language?
Adult Basic Literacy learners are those who seek to improve their reading, writing, spelling, or basic math skills. English as a Second Language (ESL) learners are immigrants who primarily want to learn to speak and understand English.
How long are the training workshops and where are they held?
The training workshops are 12-hours. Both workshops include an orientation. All workshops are held at the LV-PC office, 105-A E. Arlington Blvd. (near Twice is Nice consignment shop and McFadyen Music.) There is ample parking for your convenience. Call the LV-PC office at 252-353-6578 for more information.
How often do I need to meet with my learner?
Tutors and learners meet a minimum of one time a week for 1.5 to 2 hours. The more often learners receive instruction, the faster they make progress.
Where do I meet with my learner?
Most sessions take place at the Literacy Volunteers facility, however tutors and students also meet in public locations across Pitt County. These include area libraries, area churches, or the Learning Center at Pitt Community College. Factors such as accessibility, convenience, and safety for both the tutor and learner are considered when deciding on a tutoring location.
Are there any reporting requirements?
LV-PC requires each tutor to submit a quarterly report which reflects the learners’ progress toward goals. The report focuses on specific materials used during lessons, attendance, effectiveness of lessons and materials, and anecdotal evidence of student progress. It is a simple form which is sent to tutors from the office.
What support is available to me as a tutor?
The Program staff is available by phone, e-mail, or in person to consult with tutors. Continuing education sessions are offered throughout the year to help you keep your skills sharp and fresh. Tutors are required to attend a minimum of one continuing education session a year to maintain certification. A publication designed especially for LV-PC tutors, Tutor Tips and News, is provided quarterly. It is filled with teaching tips, lesson planning ideas, and additional web sites to visit. In addition, the LV-PC library has a wide range of resources available to tutors including curriculum series, general reading books for all skill levels, and supplemental resources devoted to specific topics. All resources are provided free to tutors and their learners.
Where can I find more information about tutoring?
To learn more about tutoring, please visit the Verizon Thinkfinity website at www.thinkfinity.org. The site has free, 45-minute online courses Working with Adult Literacy Learners and Volunteering in English Language Learner Literacy Classes.