Has anyone been an Adult Literacy Tutor?

Totally Judy

Totally Judy

Joined
Dec 3, 2000
Messages
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I was picking up some books at my local library yesterday, and at the counter they had some packets on volunteering to be an Adult Literacy Tutor. Over the years I have seen the posters in the entry way, never took the time to stop and read them, but every time I would see one, I would think to myself, "Hey, Self - you can read and write. Why aren't you helping someone else?" And then I would continue on my way without acting on that thought.

So yesterday I actually took the packet home with me to see what it was all about. I read the information just a little while ago, and it is something I am capable of doing, and I have the patience (I think) to work with a student. There is formal tutor training involved and they work to match the tutor and student.

There was a training class scheduled for today, and not one single person had signed up for it. Nobody. I only know this because as I was standing at the counter waiting for my books, I had picked up the packet, and suddenly Debra, one of the Librarians, came over and asked me if I was signing up for something. "Huh?" It turns out that the Literacy Program Instructor was on the phone to see if anyone had signed up, so Debra wanted to know if I was signing up. I had to tell her that I needed to read more about it first and today was too soon for me to make a commitment.

I'm just curious as to whether anyone here has had any hands-on experience being a Literacy Tutor, and if so, what was your experience and what were the challenges and rewards ratio? I'm seriously considering making the long-term commitment (minimum 6 months - 1-2 years?) for a single student.

TJ
 
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Well, no, not really.

But for four years I was the remedial physics instructor for the USAF Academy football team.
 
Not been a teacher, but I have benefited from adult, additional mathematics schooling when I was studying on a Motorcycle Mechanics City & Guilds Course.

The additional help I received as a young adult was invaluable, and is something which I appreciate to this day. To be honest, the entire class was initially embarrassed, but each of us went on to gain the confidence and knowledge we needed.

The tutor made that possible, something we'd lacked till then...
 
Totally Judy said:
And I bet you were darn good at it, Jamie.
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It was ... interesting. I actually sometimes miss it. Took a lot of time, but I made sure those kids KNEW basic physics before we were through.

Oddly, the quarterbacks were the most difficult.
 
Was a teacher of sorts (HR trainer, tutored kids, part-time safety/emergency management lecturer, martial arts/SD/DT insctructor).

I say good on you for considering helping out. Could you imagine not being able to understand or relate with what's going on around you because you couldn't read or write? It's like showing them a skill set to free them from feeling trapped in tough world.
 
untamed said:
Could you imagine not being able to understand or relate with what's going on around you because you couldn't read or write? It's like showing them a skill set to free them from feeling trapped in tough world.
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Reading and writing have been such a major part of my life - I have taken it for granted. And it was so easy for me. I think I would like to try this so that maybe I can help someone else experience what it out there, if only they could read. And if they can read, they can write about it.
 
I expected someone to show up by now. There are a LOT of folks who come to this Forum ... can't anyone with some experience reply?
 
I tutored inner city children in reading and math for 10+ years, and an occassional drop-out who wanted to take the GED.

It can be one of the most rewarding experiences in the world, aside from raising your own kids. To see the progress, and see the "Light turn on" is something that gives you great satisfaction. As Untamed said, being able to give someone the gift of understanding, no matter what the subject is as much a benefit to you, as to the student. It's hard to describe, unless you have experienced it yourself.

Totally Judy, you owe it to yourself, as well as those who are less fortunate than us, to give it a try. You won't be disappointed.

Recently I ran into one of the kids I had helped out years before, and to his embarassment, I mentioned our history to his current classmates. It was great to hear from the other kids, "Why would he need a tutor? He's so smart already." Apparently he got over his difficulties and flourished. He just needed some confidence.

I think it really is the whole idea of an insurmountable obstacle that keeps those who don't know, from trying to learn. Those who take the steps to actively seek tutoring show remarkable courage, and are to be greatly admired. The embarrasment mentioned above is an ugly beast that keeps some from ever reaching their potential.

Please take the time to commit to this, as you will be so glad you did.
 
I was a tutor while in college -- helping folks with some form of LD with reading and math comprehension.
I also have experience as an adjunct "professor" teaching Community College, working at Sylvan's (5 years to pay off student loans), and less formally structured tutoring of high school & CC students.

give it a shot if you have the time and inclination.
If you don't, no need to feel guilty.
 
Well, it doesn't appear that there are many BF members how have been Adult Literacy Tutors. That's okay, because I signed up yesterday to be a tutor. I was given my Tutor manual to study, and my training class is Saturday, June 25th. I just hope that I will have the ability to help someone.
 
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I was a middle school teacher for 12 years and I do a lot of teaching to teachers, but I've never tutored adults or taught reading. I think the fact your students are volunteers who want to learn what you're teaching will go a long way. I plan to volunteer to teach adult literacy once I retire, so I'm interested in hearing about your experience.
 
I had my Tutor training today and l learned a lot of good stuff. Now I need to study the workbook/manual. I could possibly be matched with a learner in July or maybe August. This feels really right for me, and I am looking forward to the opportunity to help someone learn to read, however challenging it may be.
 
I have no doubt you'll also sharpen your own skills. Happens to me every time I teach ... anything, really.
 
I might have my first learner! I got a call that they are probably going to match us up. My learner is working towards a GED, can read and write some, but needs help with spelling, punctuation, math, and other stuff. Obviously the learner personal information is confidential. Woo hoo!! I'm excited!
 
untamed said:
^Nice to hear that.
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Thanks for the support! I really feel positive that this is something I can do and make a difference for one person at a time. And I can continue with this when I retire in 3-4 years. It feels good to be able to give something back to the community and to be able to help someone - especially with something as important as reading and writing.
 
Totally Judy said:
Thanks for the support! I really feel positive that this is something I can do and make a difference for one person at a time. And I can continue with this when I retire in 3-4 years. It feels good to be able to give something back to the community and to be able to help someone - especially with something as important as reading and writing.
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In the end, I suppose that's all that we can do. More power to ya.
 
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