NEWS & MEDIA

Since it was founded four years ago, the International School of Beijing's (ISB) tutoring center has gone from strength to strength as a vibrant learning community where students help each other. This year the center has 21 tutors who provide one-on-one help to students across a range of subjects.

Amei S became a tutor as a ninth-grader when the center was created by former students Jennifer Chung and Angela Chen, both of whom graduated from ISB in 2015. Now a senior, Amei said she was attracted to tutoring for its academic and social benefits.

“I felt that it would be a good way to meet students I wouldn’t necessarily get to know. As a high school student, I’ve actually become really good friends with some seventh-graders,” said Amei, who tutors science and economics.

“Tutoring also solidifies what you learn in class. Teaching others reinforces what you already know,” she added.

Top-Level Training

ISB tutors must complete a minimum 12-hour basic online training course that gives them skills in nonverbal communication, cultural awareness, and critical thinking. Those interested in learning more about tutoring can also take intermediate or advanced courses.

Cynthia L, an ISB senior who tutors chemistry, biology, and Spanish, is currently taking the advanced course.

“The courses instill a sense of professionalism. You develop a deeper understanding of students’ needs, including how you can talk to parents and teachers to help each student reach their potential,” said Cynthia, who became a tutor in tenth-grade.

Multi-Tiered Support

ISB high school teacher Daniel Russell describes the tutoring center as a “multi-tiered support system” for students that individualizes instruction.

“Strategically, the tutoring center not only supports struggling students but also offers another way for students to have a more personalized learning path. For example, a number of tutors are spending 15 to 30 hours beyond their initial tutoring training to reach the intermediate and advanced levels,” he said.

“This makes them better tutors, as well as better students. These types of learning opportunities truly provide students with enriching, authentic, community experiences that they wouldn’t normally receive in a traditional classroom.”

Meaningful Milestones

For many seniors, staying on top of their own studies can be stressful enough without dedicating time helping others. However, Amei describes tutoring as a passion that has enriched her high school experience.

“Since I began tutoring, it’s just become part of my routine. It’s also really enjoyable. When students succeed in their learning and you see their frustration disappear, it’s very rewarding,” she explained.

“Many students feel comfortable sharing their feelings, and they are often more willing to fail in front of us. This contributes to a positive learning environment.”

This school year the center has 16 returning tutors, reflecting a retention rate of more than 90 percent. Collectively they have nearly 200 hours of training, an achievement that makes Mr. Russell extremely proud.

“As the teacher-sponsor, I’m honored to be part of such a dedicated, talented group of students. The tutoring center is a wonderful, beneficial program,” he said.

The tutoring center is located in room 2333 and is open Monday through Thursday from 3:30 pm to 4:30 pm. Tutoring is primarily for middle and high school students, with elementary school students accepted on a case-by-case basis. Interested parents can view tutors’ profiles on the noticeboard outside the center or visit during its operating hours.