Ohjaajille – For tutors

When you start your shift, say hi to the tutors who worked before you. Ask what kind of problems the students are tackling with. Talk also to the tutors working with you. Tutors wearing yellow vests are course-specific Extreme Apprenticeship tutors.

How to guide students

Be active. Circulate among students on your own initiative and say hi to them. It is easier for the students to ask questions if the tutor has opened the conversation.

Listen. Encourage the student to talk, and listen to what they say. Even if you do not know the topic well or the course material is in Finnish, you can help the student by asking questions and encouraging them to explain their thinking.

Be encouraging. Students may be very insecure in what comes to mathematics, and feel that they are not doing well enough. Commend the student’s work.

The tutor does not have to know all the answers. The aim is that the tutor supports the student in working towards a solution. As a more experienced mathematician, the tutor can show how to approach new problems.

Be passive. Sit down with the student. Let the student have the pens and encourage them to write down their thoughts. Give space to the student to have ‘aha’ moments.

Encourage co-operation. Students should learn to discuss mathematics. Many of them are also looking for friends to study with. Encourage students to collaborate, especially if many of them are working alone on the same problem.

You can also have a look at these  guidelines for guidance.

Dealing with language

Most students can deal with English, but they may not know specific mathematical terms. Others may be reluctant to use their English, which they may feel is not good enough. If they wish to speak to a Finnish speaking tutor instead, do not take it personally.

Encourage the students to speak English. Ask the student to translate their questions. Listen patiently and compliment their efforts. Let them know that practice makes them better in English, too.

Use dictionaries and translators. Mathematical terms can be difficult to translate. You can try to find the term in this translator or this vocabulary.

Turn the threat into an opportunity. Let the student know that using English for mathematics is an important skill in later studies and working life. Being able to practise it in a safe and non-formal environment is a great opportunity for them.

Maintaining the space

Keeping the study space tidy and in good condition is everyone’s responsibility.

Used markers: Throw them away and get new ones from the mail room (3rd floor) or office supply room (2nd floor).

Blackboards: If you see that they are very full at the end of your shift / the day, erase them with the mop.

From time to time, collect and throw away trash, take books and course notes back to the shelf along the C corridor or in room C323 and erase writing from the tables.

Practical questions

Unable to make your shift? If you are unable to do your shift, contact other instructors and ask them to cover for you. You can use the list email list mtl-ratkomo@helsinki.fi

Taken ill? Contact the Solvery coordinator.

Quiet shift? If your shift is very quiet every week, it might be a good idea to change to another time slot. Talk about this with the Solvery coordinator.