Academics

Students encouraged to seek tutoring upon receiving Starfish notifications

The cost of Penn State Learning’s tutoring services are covered by tuition

Penn State Learning offers tutoring and guided study groups. Credit: Steve Tressler / Penn StateCreative Commons

UNIVERSITY PARK, Pa. — When instructors across the University recently reported on students’ academic progress in Starfish, a number of students received warning flags and were encouraged to improve their academic performance.

Students who receive warning flags through Starfish should communicate with the course instructor about how to improve their performance. They are reminded to check the course syllabus for the instructor’s preferred method of communication. Students can also contact their academic adviser to address concerns about academic progress and make a plan to get back on track. Many students can schedule an appointment with their academic adviser directly through Starfish.

Tutoring Resources

Students who wish to improve their academic performance have access to a range of tutoring services on campus. Penn State Learning has tutoring and group study services available to students at University Park for courses from languages to math and science. All services from Penn State Learning are covered by tuition and carry no extra cost for students. World Campus and campuses other than University Park also have their own academic support offices.

“Research shows that regular use of academic support resources can boost grades as well as retention,” said Neill Johnson, director of Penn State Learning. “When students receive a Starfish notification, we recommend they visit their Campus Learning Center or World Campus Academic Support Center for local assistance.”

Many students can also access academic support services specific to their major or college, and a list of services can be found on the Penn State Learning resources page.

Penn State Learning is part of Penn State Undergraduate Education, the academic administrative unit that provides leadership and coordination for University-wide programs and initiatives in support of undergraduate teaching and learning at Penn State. Learn more about Undergraduate Education at undergrad.psu.edu.

 

Last Updated October 8, 2020