The Tutoring Center at Pennsylvania College of Technology recently received the International Tutor Certification from the College Reading and Learning Association.
CRLA certification establishes professional standards for tutor-training curricula, training and tutor evaluation, said Dr. Mary A. Sullivan, director of Academic Support Services at Penn College.
To obtain certification, a minimum level of skills and training must be demonstrated. The voluntary accreditation process enhances the professionalism and effectiveness of the tutors, Sullivan said. The certification process dictates the modes of training considered to be acceptable and the specific areas of training that must be addressed. Specific tutor-selection and tutor-evaluation criteria also must be followed.
"We are proud to have earned this certification from the CRLA, recognizing that excellence in tutor training will ultimately result in better service to our students," Sullivan said.
Sullivan commended David D. Cunningham, coordinator of tutoring at the College, for his efforts in obtaining certification for the Tutoring Center, which employs 70 peer and professional tutors per year. Tutors are required to have 10 hours of training and 25 hours of experience. The center's services are offered free to all Penn College students.