University Tutorial Services is provided through Learning Assistance Programs and is nationally certified by the College Reading and Learning Association (CRLA). Tutoring is available for enrolled University undergraduate students and is offered in virtual and in-person formats.
There are several different types of assistance you can receive to help you be successful in your courses. From learning assistants to work one on one with you to sessions devoted to particular classes, you'll have options to make sure you're getting all you can from your classes.
Tutoring is provided through scheduled appointments and is provided on the Cape Girardeau campus as well as at the regional campuses. Tutoring is provided on a first-come, first-served basis. Additional hours of tutoring are considered on a case by case basis. University Tutorial Services will make every effort to match all requests received, but they cannot guarantee tutor availability for all courses.
Tutoring Services
Do you need a little extra assistance with one of your courses? That's what we're here for. University Tutorial Services utilizes Penji to accept tutorial requests. To begin the tutorial request process, create a Penji account!
Supplemental Instruction
Supplemental Instruction (SI) is provided through Learning Assistance Programs. SI sessions are designed to assist students in increasing their understanding of course lectures, class readings, and mastering course concepts. The SI program is accredited through the International Center for Supplemental Instruction (ICSI).
Request A Tutor
Requests for tutorial assistance must be submitted online using Penji. Penji is a great way to keep track of your tutoring sessions and manage your appointments.
SIGNING UP FOR A LEARNING ASSISTANT
Instructions, policies, and procedures for submitting a tutorial request can be found below.
To submit a tutorial request using Penji:
- Create an account with Penji and complete the email verification process
- Select Request Help
- Select Schedule a weekly 1-hour 1:1 appointment
- Select the course in which assistance is needed
- Select the day and session time that work
- Select a Learning Assistant
- Select the tutoring method for the session: in-person or online
- Confirm the appointment details and select Complete
- Set an agenda by providing an overview of what should be addressed in the session
Once the request has been submitted, a confirmation email will be sent to the Southeast email account.
Temporary Cancellation
If a student wishes to temporarily cancel a tutorial session, this request can be made by emailing the Learning Assistant and/or Tutorial Services. Note: No action should be taken within Penji to temporarily cancel a tutorial session.
Permanent Cancellation
If a student wishes to permanently cancel their session, the student can either:
- Notify their Learning Assistant and/or Tutorial Services of the need to permanently cancel the session
- Cancel their session within Penji
Cancellation Policy
A cancellation occurs when a student provides their Learning Assistant and/or Tutorial Services with at least 24 hours' notice that they will not attend an upcoming tutorial session. If a student cancels three (3) or more tutorial sessions throughout the semester, a Learning Assistant can request that the student be removed from their schedule.
No-Show Policy
A no-show occurs when a student provides their Learning Assistant and/or Tutorial Services with less than 24 hours' notice that they will not attend an upcoming tutorial session. Additionally, a no-show is documented if a student leaves their session before 15 minutes have passed.
When a no-show is documented within Penji, an automated email is sent to the student and their Learning Assistant. If the student does not contact the Learning Assistant within 24 hours of receipt of this email to confirm the continuation of their sessions, the student's tutorial session will be terminated from their Learning Assistant's schedule. If a student accrues two no-shows, their session will automatically be terminated from their Learning Assistant's schedule.
If a student's session is terminated, the student may reapply for tutorial sessions for that course after three (3) days, and their no-show count will be reset to zero.
In case of an emergency which makes it impossible to contact the office and/or Learning Assistant 24 hours in advance, the student may provide documentation to the office within 48 hours of the missed appointment. If documentation is not provided, it is left to the discretion of University Tutorial Services and the Learning Assistant to make a determination as to whether a no-show will be documented for the missed session.
Virtual Tutoring
Tutoring Services is also available online! Sign-up to receive virtual tutoring sessions from a trained tutor.
“ One of my other favorite experiences at SEMO has been my involvement with University Tutorial Services. I had the privilege of working as a Learning Assistant this past semester, and it has been such an awesome experience. I applied for the position with the intentions of helping peers, making sure I know the concepts I am tutoring in, and personal curiosity to validate if I was able to help instruct students. All of the information that I have learned has been drilled into me in the best way possible. I have learned the best ways to interact with my peers in a way that is conducive to learning; I really feel as though I have a good method for helping students to learn. Everything I have wanted out of this program has been given to me ten-fold, and it is one of the best experiences I have had here at SEMO. ”
Cape Girardeau, MO 63701