Due to an unexpected opening in my busy schedule, I was given the opportunity to take Peer Tutoring. At first I was hesitant, thinking that maybe I should take Driver’s Ed instead. But after much persuasion from my counselor and my brother, I decided it might be an interesting class to join. On my first day, I came in and the students and staff looked very welcoming. The first thing I did was sit down next to a student and help him on his “application.” It was quite challenging but he finally got the job done. One thing I noticed or believe is that the teachers are appreciated for more than showing their kindness. There aren’t many students that sign up for this class, so hopefully there will be in the future. Although some of the peer tutors join this class for college to look over, anyone should sign up just for the experience. It truly is a fun and exciting class to come to every day.
On a “regular day”, peer tutors are to come in and jump right in to helping a student they see that needs help. Once that is accomplished, the students are allowed to “buy” or “rent” objects/materials that they feel will keep them busy. Some occurrences that I’ve experienced in this class were the “evacuation” days. When a student displays angry emotions or even hits, peer tutors and students are to get out of the room as soon as possible and to stay away from that student. Even though this may be a negative side to joining this course, there is a much more positive effect when you leave each day. Peer tutoring is sure to be an incredible experience no one will forget.
There are three classes, I believe, in which students are separated by their skill level and communication. I happen to be in one of the lower classes. Being in this class has taught me the ability to keep my patience at a high level, to listen, and to teach. While at times it is quite frustrating for me to keep a student on task, I just have to keep moving on and make sure that that student is able to work to their full ability. The students are given a respect that we are all given by our teachers. If someone does something wrong, they will be told to stop. We also have a form of government in the classrooms by providing each student with the option of earning “money”. By providing this form of prize “money” to the students, they are able to see that they can do anything as long as they show the proper respect and responsibility in a classroom. One of the things I love most about this class is that everyone tries their best – the teachers, students, and peer tutors. Not only will joining Peer Tutoring help you in the long run, it will also give you a better focus and understanding about everyone in our world.