Example seminar program for tutor training and support

This document was developed by the Course Improvement Team 2000

New tutors are likely to need input and support in their role.

At University level, induction and support is available from the Department of Industry, Professional and Adult Education - contact Roberta Abell rabell@rmit.edu.au - Tel. x57830.

The program outline below has been developed for course coordinators who want to offer an internal program of weekly or fortnightly seminars for their tutors. Each topic could be the focus of a group discussion. It would be valuable for tutors to meet in small groups, ideally with other staff teaching the same subject.

If you do develop a local program, we suggest you contact Roberta Abell to discuss what you have in mind, and the possibility of participants gaining academic credit.

The next challenge - making the transition from student to tutor

• what is expected of you
• what you can expect from your subject leader
• open questions

Half day introductory session

• What makes a good tutorial / group activity / the best tutorials I have attended
• Identifying pitfalls, planning for a successful tutorial
• Strategies for success and coping with difficulties
• The importance of a peer support network - establishing a support network

Weekly discussion topics - suggested sequence

1. Planning session 1
2. Sharing plans for tutorials with the group and getting suggestions
3. When things go wrong
4. Demanding students
5. Linking the subject guides with the tutorials
6. Linking the graduate attributes with the subject guides
7. Evaluating your tutorials - what to ask, when to ask
8. Subject evaluations (schedule this before Week 8, RMIT feedback week)
9. Reflecting on the feedback gained in the evaluations
10. Making changes
11. Giving feedback to students
12. Preparing for assessment
13. Debrief on exams + Open discussion - how to learn more- staff development options [after exams]