Academic Catalog 2023-2024

Academic Catalog 2023 - 2024

In addition to helping with classwork, the Writing Center accepts submissions for contests in poetry and short stories and helps with resumes, scholarship applications, and other work by students.

CENTER FOR STUDENT SUCCESS

Learning Specialists Every Beacon student is assigned to a Learning Specialist for individualized academic mentoring. Students work one-on-one, or occasionally in small groups with their Learning Specialist to improve study skills and techniques to develop effective organizational strategies. By building a deeper understanding of the students’ individual learning styles and academic challenges and by fostering strong, trusting relationships, Learning Specialists create an environment where real learning happens. Sessions are skills-based and individually tailored to the learning challenges faced by each student with the goal of gaining self-directed academic independence for learning and thinking critically that will last far beyond the classroom. Learning Specialists also act as Academic Advisors for their assigned students. The familiarity with each student’s learning differences, learning styles, strengths, and weaknesses make the Learning Specialists the most well-informed advisors to help students choose their major, develop balanced course schedules designed for success, and to guide students through their degree programs. The College facilitates the academic success of its students by providing appropriate accommodations to students needing additional assistance. All professors post class notes and study guides online so that students can work with their Learning Specialist and Peer Tutors to reinforce classroom information and course content. Accommodations may include interactive e-books, computer-based reading or writing programs, voice-activated dictation software, audio texts , online graphic organizers, and audio/visual aids. Test accommodations include adjustments in presentation, setting, timing/scheduling, and seating. To allow for test or quiz issues, students consult with a Learning Specialist and their professors to identify appropriate accommodations and helpful assistive technology. Learning Specialists help students to develop emotional intelligence skills such as self-awareness, self regulation, critical thinking and self-motivation, empathy, and social skills such as communication, collaboration, teamwork, and conflict management. These skills are reinforced by all members of the Beacon community. Peer Tutoring The goal of the Peer Tutoring Program is to provide peer academic support. While the Learning Specialists are generalists who assist students with all assignments and coursework, the Peer Tutors are specialists who assist students with specific subject areas. Peer Tutors have achieved a mastery of course content and have been nominated by faculty to enter the program. They undergo a rigorous two-tier training regimen and are available to students during posted hours or by appointment. Some Peer Tutors function as classroom Teaching Assistants and others conduct regular study groups. Teaching Assistants are accessible to students in their classes and help identify and assist at-risk students.

Community Educator The Community Educator helps to connect Learners with resources and opportunities on campus.

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