American International College Earns National Certification for Tutoring and Writing Programs

Springfield, MA, November 01, 2013 --(PR.com)-- Students at American International College in Springfield, Mass., will benefit from two newly certified programs. The AIC Tutoring Program and the Writing Center have received International Tutor Training Program Certification from the College Reading & Learning Association (CRLA-ITTP).

Lesley J. LaMarche, Director of the Tutoring Program, and Julie R. Bodnar, Director of the Writing Center, received the certification for their respective programs recently.

CRLA-ITTP is an internationally accepted standard of skills and training for tutors and paraprofessionals. It prepares them for the rigors and responsibilities that come with tutoring.CRLA's ITTP has been endorsed by the Council of Learning Assistance and Developmental Education Associations (CLADEA), National Association for Developmental Education, and the Commission XVI of the American College Personnel Association.

Bodnar said it is to the benefit of all students at AIC that they meet with highly trained, CRLA Certified tutors. "This training enhances the quality of tutoring while reassuring faculty, students, and parents alike that they can be confident in the knowledge and efficacy of all AIC tutors," she said.

Bodnar said the CRLA Certification was a lengthy process, taking approximately one full year to complete. The process included submitting a 26-page detailed application, approximately 30 supporting documents, and the development of a 51-page Tutor Training Manual, all written and researched by LaMarche and Bodnar. She said they went through a rigorous review process, gaining the approval of three CRLA reviewers who ensured the quality and validity of the certification.

"The 51 page training manual guides us during the mandatory tutor training workshop. The peer tutors are trained in areas such as diversity, ethics, how to assist learning disabled students, metacognition when tutoring, motivation, learning skills techniques and much more," said LaMarche.

LaMarche said, tutors are trained to accommodate for alternative learning styles, focus on strengths and redirect weaknesses in a fashion that encourages analytical thinking and a supportive learning environment. "Parents can also feel confident that their children's tutors are certified in both programs and protocol, trained to provide students with the highest level of tutoring techniques and sensitivity," she said.

"Our ultimate goal is to help the student build self confidence and become an independent learner," according to LaMarche. "We point out strengths to help them correct weaknesses."