Advising Students in Academic Difficulty
Even the best students will occasionally struggle academically. There are a number of ways an advisor can support the student who is experiencing academic difficulty.
Students suggest many reasons why they are not doing well in classes. Perhaps the most common include/are "the professor is not teaching the class," or "I have to teach myself." When you hear this, or something like it, do not be afraid to question a little more.
Determine the nature of the problem
- Is a new way of presenting information unsettling?
- Does the student need to re-evaluate his/her study skills?
- Does the student need to study "smarter?" Studying more is not necessarily studying better.
Individual Professors: Professors are always the first resource for students in academic trouble. Sometimes the problem can be addressed if the student simply talks to his or her professor individually. Encourage your advisee to see the professor during his/her posted office hours. Professors can give study tips and, perhaps, present the information in a different way.
Learning Center (LC): The LC is located in the lower level of the library and offers free tutoring in most subjects in which students typically experience academic difficulty. The LC has no walk-in hours so students must call (#1420) for appointments.
Study Groups: Many students learn well when they discuss information with others in a small study group. Instead of reading and trying to memorize, studying with others can help students gain critical thinking skills, which are essential, especially in classes such as psychology, ethics, and history.
Tutoring: Tutoring can be through the LC, through the math department (for math courses), with someone students find on their own, or through someone the professor may recommend. Professors occasionally will have a graduate assistant who will work one-on-one with students.
Perhaps the problem is not academic in nature. Sometimes students experience problems adjusting to the institution. Homesickness, family problems, loneliness, and roommate problems are only some of the issues that may affect academic performance. If students struggle emotionally, make sure they have considered the following resources:
University Counseling Center: This confidential service is available for free. At times, students face problems that need more attention than an advisor is comfortable with giving or is qualified to give. In sensitive times like these, it may be best to refer
