ACE has implemented new tutor training and evaluation procedures. This fall (2015), tutors were required to attend a half-day training before the semester began. Training concepts were based on College Reading and Learning Association (CRLA) training standards. CRLA is the national tutor association that certifies tutorial programs. As a follow-up, additional training sessions are required throughout the semester. As of Fall 2015, the new tutor coordinator has implemented bi-weekly observations of each tutor. Beginning next semester (spring 2016), tutors will be assessed and re-hired based on previous semester's performance evaluations. The coordinator evaluates tutors based on best practices rubrics in tutoring, including using the Socratic Method and the Tutoring Cycle, as well as professionalism.

Faculty who teach introductory courses in Math and English have been invited to conduct office hours in the Center. Currently, five professors are participating in this initiative. Having faculty present in ACE helps to endorse the services ACE provides and encourages students to take advantage of the services. It also provides a cost-effective way to increase tutorial center personnel. We will encourage more faculty to take advantage of this opportunity.

Upcoming initiatives include the implementation of the Supplemental Instruction (SI) Program in 15 high-risk courses in spring 2016. SI targets historically difficult courses by placing a model student (SI Leader) in the course to provide weekly review sessions. Review sessions focus on active learning and collaboration to help students improve study, critical thinking, communication and social skills. SI is uniquely proven to improve the academic success of underrepresented minorities, first-year students and students in STEM courses. Courses identified for a Supplemental Instruction section will be chosen before the conclusion of the fall 2015 term. Students, who will serve as SI leaders, will be interviewed and selected before the conclusion of the fall 2015. The selected SI Leaders will have a two-day training before the beginning of the spring semester. SI Leaders will attend class the first week of the spring semester and introduce SI to their students. Review sessions will begin approximately a week after spring classes begin. The program will be evaluated based on the change in DFW rates from previous semesters and the difference in DFW rates of participants and non-participants.

The Center for Academic Persistence and Success (CAPS) has repurchased AdvisorTrac/TutorTrac software ($7000) for improved data tracking and record keeping. AdvisorTrac allows advisors to make appointments with students, and record notes on visits. Reporting features analyzes number of student contacts, the amount of time spent with each student and reasons for visits. Students can also rate their visit and give feedback on their experience. TutorTrac allows ACE to document tutoring efficiency and frequency, among a host of other capabilities. The University’s Office of Information Technology has completed Banner transfer so that student information is pre-populated. CAPS will begin using software by October 19, 2015. CAPS is working closely with the Accelerated Learning Program faculty to monitor progress and attendance in Accelerated Math and English courses. Faculty notify the CAPS Director

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