Department of Developmental Studies
Learning Center & Writing Lab
523 Elston Hall
(518) 381-1249

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The Learning Center provides academic assistance to students who need extra help with reading, writing, and study skills. Assistance is available through individualized instruction by professional and peer tutors, computer assisted instruction, study groups in content areas, and workshops. The Learning Center also serves as a writing lab to all students who need assistance in written assignments including research papers.

Computers are available for word processing and using educational software such as PLATO Writing and Reading Skills Programs. Adaptive computer technology (such as the Kurzweil 3000) is available for students with disabilities.

Students can receive assistance on a walk-in basis or by appointment for half-hour sessions. Areas where students may receive help include the following:

Reading and Study Skills Assistance

• time management

• textbook reading

• study skills such as note-taking and test-taking strategies

• college survival skills

Writing Assistance

The Writing Lab:

• helps students begin writing assignments by discussing assignments and their organization before the writing has begun

• assists with all steps of the writing process: narrowing a topic, generating ideas, writing a thesis statement, organizing ideas, revising, and preparing a final copy

• responds to rough drafts and prescribes strategies to overcome weaknesses

• provides instruction in grammar and punctuation

• provides resources to improve writing skills

• assists students with research papers and MLA and APA documentation

• encourages students to develop self-editing skills and proofreading skills

• believes a student's finished copy should reflect his/her own ability

The Writing Lab does not:

• proofread (revise and edit) papers for the student

• grade assignments or discuss grades

Frequently Asked Questions About Writing Appointments

English as a Second Language

• improving the communication skills of ESL students

Learning Center Tutoring

• tutoring in various courses

• tutoring schedule

Workshops

• workshops covering topics such as note taking, math anxiety, textbook reading, and test strategies

• workshop schedule

Learning Center & Writing Lab Hours

Spring 2008

Summer 2008
Tuesday, June 10 – Thursday, July 31

For further information, contact Robin Geery, Learning Center Coordinator at (518) 381-1249, or geeryr@gw.sunysccc.edu.

Last updated May 9, 2008