Ah, yes. That time of year is approaching… both the most anticipated and apprehensive: the end of the semester. Closing in on the last assignments and preparing for finals, it is important to note the resources available to Parkland students. If you’re not already aware, Parkland College maintains a Learning Commons in the heart of campus, situated on the second floor of the X-Wing.
The Learning Commons is a conglomeration of quiet study spaces including private rooms, booths, and comfortable seating, as well as accessible technology, and a library. The Learning Commons also provides students with access to tutoring and additional educational assistance.
Writing Lab
Located towards the back of the Learning Commons is the Writing Lab. The Writing Lab is composed of English composition faculty that provides students with an array of writing-related aid such as understanding and formatting assignments, learning proofreading skills, organizing content, brainstorming for ideas, documenting research, and more!
Research papers, general essays, resumes, applications, and other projects are simply a few examples of the content brought to the Writing Lab faculty. If you’re unsure whether the staff can help you, all you need to do is ask!
“We really want to remove the notion that only “bad” or “needy” writers come to the Writing Lab. The truth is that DEDICATED writers who care about their writing come to us, and we are thrilled to help them,” Angela Gulick, Writing Lab Coordinator stated. Writers who utilize the Writing Lab range from developmental to college-level; regardless of skill, all are invited and welcome to receive help.
“Our goal is to have conversations with writers, to focus on questions and issues of concern to those who come to us, and to help writers develop confidence and independence in their own writing”
Angela Gulick
For more information on in-person and online hours, handouts, and even free school supplies visit https://library.parkland.edu/writinglab!
Peer Tutoring
Looking for help outside of the scope of English assignments? No problem. Just to the left of the Learning Commons entrance is an area designated for walk-in peer tutoring specializing in the subjects of accounting, biology, chemistry, computer information systems, computer science, economics, English as a Second Language (ESL), mathematics, physics, and Spanish. “The peer tutoring program is designed to help students understand course material, complete assignments, and prepare for tests,” Peer tutoring supervisor, Omar Adwai expressed.
Peer tutors are students who have excelled in their classes and received tutor training. Meet two of Parkland’s peer tutors!
Zheng Yi Lai
Year: Sophomore
Major: Computer Science
Subjects of Expertise: Calculus, Computer Science, Physics, Chemistry, and Economics
What is your favorite part about tutoring?
The satisfaction after a student can understand your explanations and apply them in their courses. Not only that, they will share their happiness after they receive better results in the exam. Last but not least, the joy of helping people.
Shaughn McGuire
Year: Freshman
Major: Architecture
Subjects of Expertise: Math, Economics, Sociology, English as a Second Language
What does student peer tutoring provide the students of Parkland?
I think that besides being a place where students can get help with their homework and specific problems, it is also a place where people can build confidence. It’s a place without judgment or being overwhelmed.
Visit https://library.parkland.edu/c.php?g=1199623 for more details and peer tutoring scheduling!
Riley Parks
Prospectus Reporter