Study Center & Peer-Assisted Learning "PALS"

The Study Center provides academic support through peer-tutoring and faculty assistance for students enrolled in Ferrum College. Through the Peer Assisted Learning program (PAL) peer-tutoring is provided primarily for introductory level courses by students who have excelled in course work, been recommended by the professor, and who have applied and been hired by ARC faculty.

Frequently asked questions

Where is the Study Center?
The Study Center is located on the ground floor of Stanley Library, in the Academic Resources Center. Most all PAL Study sessions are typically held here, unless the schedule indicates otherwise.

When can I come to the Study Center?    
PAL study sessions are established in each class involved in the program. Study sessions are scheduled for twice a week, but extra sessions may be called prior to major tests.  The Study Center in the ARC is open 8:00 AM. to 10:00 PM weekdays, and you can schedule individual appointments with ARC tutors any time during those hours by contacting the PAL/tutor.

What classes are involved in the PAL program?
The PAL program covers classes across several majors, especially introductory-level classes.   Check the schedule for specific courses and regular tutoring hours.

What should I bring with me to the Study Center?

• » Your course text
• » Your class notes and any handouts provided to you by your professor
• » Something to write with, to write on, and any other equipment your class requires (such as a calculator)
• » A schedule or datebook

What if I can't make it to a PAL study session?
If your schedule prevents you from attending a study session, you can schedule individual appointments with PAL Study tutors using our online registration system. Please contact the PAL/tutor or PAL Coordinator, Randy Simpson (540-365-4274) resimipson@ferrum.edu

Does the Study Center offer any online resources I can use at home?
Yes! Check out the Study Center resources online section for tips on studying, time management, effective reading and note-taking, dealing with text anxiety, learning styles, and more links from Ferrum faculty and the web.

Published 1/19/12

Spring 2012 ARC Resources Schedule

pal Tutors

PAL tutors hold two 1-hour group study sessions per week for specific courses. PALs meet in the ARC. MTH PALs meet in the Math Center (Main Library).

You may also email the PAL for individual appointments

Please bring your text book, notes and a specific goal.

On-call tutors

On-call tutors are available by appointment to provide one-on-one tutoring in a subject. Appointments must be made a day  in advance.  Please contact the tutor via email to set up an individual study session.

Please bring your text book, notes and a specific goal. On-Call sessions must meet  in the ARC

COURSE                           ON-CALL  PAL TUTOR                     ON-CALL TUTOR EMAIL                                        

Study groups

Study Groups can be set up by any student in any course. In order to schedule a Study Group meeting in the ARC, please email: Resimpson@ferrum.edu . Study Groups may choose to use  Facilitators, who are successful senior level students in their specialty areas. Facilitators can provide study tips and help to keep a meeting productive.

 Groups using On-Call Tutors or Facilitators must meet in the ARC

FACULTY OFFICE HOURS IN THE ARC

Office hours listed below are located in the ARC. Contact the faculty for further information.

 The Math Center

The Math Center is located in the Main Library. Contact Justin Allen: Jallen@ferrum.edu

The Writing Center is located in the Main Library. Contact Karen Duddy: kduddy@ferrum.edu

Links for Academic Resources On-Line

Hippocampus.org

          Refresh yourself on Algebra, Calculus, American Government, Biology, Statistics, Physics, Psychology, Religion, or US History!!!

http://www.hippocampus.org/   

Study Guides and Strategies

     A public service helping learners succeed since 1996. Website overview: Since 1996 the website has been researched, authored, maintained and supported by Joe Landsberger as an international, learner-centric, educational public service.

http://www.studygs.net/           

Study Stack 

       Free online flashcards AND activities to facilitate your learning!!

http://www.studystack.com/

Khan Academy

Need help with biology, chemistry, physics, calculus, algebra, or a host of other topics? The creator of this website did not learn via traditional methods, thus he created this website to help students learn. He breaks a concept down to its constituent elements and then builds it back up for you, which really helps your brain grasp the concept. If you are ready to succeed, but are having trouble grasping concepts – give Khan Academy a try!! 

www.khanacademy.org

Todd Finnerty.com

Free Audio MP3 relaxation exercises from Dr. Finnerty- Subscribe to the Podcast!

Take them in your Ipod/MP3 player, listen to them on your computer or burn them to CDs. They are posted for educational purposes only and no treatment relationship is implied. Dr. Finnerty accepts no liability for any problems resulting from the use of these recordings, and anyone with physical/muscular difficulties should consult their physician before using progressive muscle relaxation. Use of these audio recordings implies acceptance with these terms.  http://tfinnerty.tripod.com/lessstress.html      

Free online graphing calculator!

     This website has an online graphing calculator to help you succeed in your math course. They also have rental calculators available.

http://rentcalculators.org/stheli.html#          

Relaxation exercises

         to help suppress your sympathetic nervous system. Tell those stress chemicals to TAKE A HIKE!!

http://www.hws.edu/studentlife/counseling_relax.aspx       

Academic Workshops for Freshman

Fall 20** Freshman Academic Skills Workshops Schedule

All sessions are on a first come, first served basis- space is limited to 20 students per workshop- be prompt!

WORKSHOP                                           DATE                    TIME                    LOCATION

Positive Stress Management                                TO BE UPDATED FOR FALL 2012

Study Tips and Strategies                  

Test Taking Strategies                         

Ferrum College On-line                       

Resource Scavenger Hunt

Positive Stress Management             

Study Tips and Strategies                   

Test Taking Strategies                        

Ferrum College On-line                       

Resource Scavenger Hunt

Ferrum College On-line                       

Resource Scavenger Hunt

Positive Stress Management              

Study Tips and Strategies                  

Test Taking Strategies                         

Information for Faculty Let us know if you have any questions about the Study Center, if you would like to suggest a study tutor, are interested in getting involved, or you have helpful suggestions or additions for this web page. Please call (540) 365-4274 or send these requests and suggestions to Randy Simpson.