Learning Center-Minneapolis

Frequently Asked Questions

Learning Assistance (Peer Tutoring)
For more information contact Debra Evon, Learning Assistance Coordinator and Writing/Learning Specialist, (651) 690-7832.

1) Is there a fee for tutoring? Tutoring is free of charge for all St. Catherine-Minneapolis students.

2) How do I access the tutoring services? Students who would like to be assigned Learning Assistants, with whom they can schedule tutoring appointments, should see Debra Evon. As an alternative to learning assistance by appointment, walk-in tutoring is offered for a variety of courses each term; walk-in schedules are available in the Learning Center, as well as posted around campus.

3) In what ways can the Learning Assistants help me? The Learning Assistants can clarify course material, help review for tests, and make suggestions for improving study habits and papers.


Writing Assistance
For more information contact Debra Evon, Learning Assistance Coordinator and Writing/Learning Specialist, (651) 690-7832.

1) May I drop off my paper for proofreading, and pick it up later? No, you must be present when the Writing Specialist or student Learning Assistants examine your paper. With regard to proofreading and editing, the goal of our Learning Center is to help strengthen your writing skills, by way of examples and suggestions, so that you can apply those skills to future composition.

2) Is there anyone in the Learning Center who can fix my paper? Staff will not “fix” your paper; instead, they will look over it with you, identify rough spots and common difficulties, and offer ideas to help you edit it.

3) Are there any resources to help me review the basics? Books, software, and handouts are available to students wanting to learn or review writing fundamentals.

Learning and Test-taking Strategies Assistance
For more information contact Debra Evon, Learning Assistance Coordinator and Writing/Learning Specialist, (651) 690-7832.

1) What can I do to improve my study skills? Staff can assess your study strategies and learning style, and work with you on one or more of these skills: time management, notetaking, textbook reading, test preparation, test-taking and memory usage.

2) I’m studying hard, but I can’t seem to raise my grades. Can anyone help me? Both the Learning Specialist and the student Learning Assistants can examine your study strategies and propose other strategies to try. Different methods work for different kinds of learners.

3) How can I retain more of the information I read? You can schedule an appointment with the Learning Specialist to learn the SQ3R method, which trains readers to focus, process, and file.


Testing Center
For more information contact Rachel Thoson, Testing Specialist, (651) 690-7745.

1) Who is eligible to use the Testing Center? Students who have authorization from the Disabilities or ESL Specialists to take tests in the testing center for the current semester are eligible for this service.

2) What are my responsibilities once I have authorization? You must fill outa blue Student Test Scheduling Form and deliverit to the testing center as soon as possible each semester (preferably during the first week of classes) and show up for your scheduled tests. Be aware that tests may start earlier than normal class time due to the extension of time that is allowed.


Disabilities Services
For more information contact Jody Hoffman, Coordinator of Student Disability Services, (651) 690-8160.

1) How do I obtain services if I am a student with a disability? Students with documented disabilities, can request services. Contact (651-690-7848) if you are a student who is Deaf/Hard of Hearing or blind/low vision; or who has a chronic or acute medical condition, a physical disability or mobility impairment, learning or attention disabilities, psychiatric disability, or brain injury.

2) What services are available to me if I am a student with a disability? Students with disabilities can take advantage of a variety of accommodations and services. The accommodation depends on your particular characteristics and needs, as well as on the demands of the course and learning environment. Each semester individual students and the Coordinator of Student Disability Services develop an Accommodation Plan.

3) I think I may have a disability. What should I do? Students who suspect they have a disabilty should contact Jody Hoffman. She will meet with students to discuss referrals for assessment if deemed appropriate, and may provide temporary support services.

English as a Second Language (ESL)
For more information contact Perry Lueders, ESL Specialist, (651) 690-7848.

1) Which ESL students can take their tests in the Testing Center? Students for whom English is a second language may require additional time to take their exams. The Testing Center administers exams for students who need that additional time. Students must take an ESL assessment before they are eligible for testing services, and must receive the approval of an ESL Specialist.

2) Where do I go if I want to take my tests in the Testing Center? Never go directly to the Testing Center. ESL students are required to get approval from an ESL Specialist each semester for every class in which they need support services.

3) How do I receive Note-Taking Services as an ESL student? If an ESL student would like a note-taker, they must contact an ESL Specialist for approval each semester. Students should then notify their instructor that they have been approved for this support service. The instructor will make an announcement in class to see if any students are interested in becoming a note-taker. The ESL student and note-taker will meet to exchange notes. It is the responsibility of the ESL student to make sure they are receiving notes from the note-taker.

4) Can I see an ESL Specialist for help with my papers or for other academic help even if she is not my instructor for a course? Definitely! We’re here to assist you. Stop by during our office hours (posted on our door) or make an appointment if you'd like us to assist you with your papers or other academic coursework.