Learning Commons
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Peer Tutors

Peer tutors may best be understood as a friendly second set of eyes.  They notice things that need noticing and help students re-visit answers and choices that merit revision.
Peer tutors are students who have completed at least one year at Bard and have been nominated by faculty in a particular field. They have been trained to work with peers and to support their learning. 
What Tutors Do

What Tutors Do

It might be easiest to see what a tutor does by considering what tutors don’t do:

  • peer tutors don’t do students’ homework for them
  • peer tutors don’t proofread students’ papers
  • peer tutors don’t make sure students’ assignments get an A
Rather, a tutor works with students to make sure that they understand the content of the course or, in the case of a writing tutor, they help writers figure out what the next step is for the current draft and how they might get there. In each and every case, the role of the tutor is to support students doing their work.  


Resources for Tutors

TESOL Certification

TESOL Certification in the form of a tutorial (includes in-class component and practicum ESL peer tutoring) provides training and 40-hour certification in ESL/L@ pedagogy and the mechanics of the English language.  This certification is often required or beneficial for applications for Fulbrights, Peace Corps, internships, fellowships and scholarships abroad and in the US.  This is a one semester (2 credit) tutorial.  Apply to Denise Minin, English Language Coordinator ([email protected]).  This certification only happens in the fall semester, so apply in spring or summer.

English Language Program Handouts