Learning Resource Centers
The Agricultural Learning Resource Center
The Agricultural Learning Center, located in 113 Agricultural Sciences and Industries Building, serves as a site for faculty and students to continue with the learning process after class hours. The center has hours during the weekdays and on Sunday. For more information, call 814-863-8142.
Learning Centers at Commonwealth Campuses
Students beginning their Penn State education at a Commonwealth campus can access learning resources at each campus. Click here for a list of services at each campus.
The University Learning Resource Center
Three Locations at University Park:
220 Boucke, Phone: 865-1841
7 Sparks, Phone: 863-4392
206 Johnston Commons, Phone: 865-1325
For the most up-to-date schedules and hours of operations, please check the Web site at http://www.ulc.psu.edu/.
Students Helping Students
Taking advantage of the services and resources of the University Learning Centers could be one of the best things to happen in your academic life. Whether you want to learn new skills or develop the abilities that you already have, our services can help you improve your academic performance. We are math tutors, writing tutors, small-group discussion leaders, foreign language tutors, computer and technology consultants, and more; we know what you're going through, and we share a unique understanding that will help you improve your skills. We're here for you as a free service. So, make the most of your learning and visit us today. A professional and trained student staff will assist you at each of our three locations, conveniently located at University Park.
The Math Center
At the Math Center, we realize that outside assistance in math courses is often necessary for total comprehension of the subject matter. That's why we offer free drop-in tutoring in courses from Math 1 to Math 200. As trained peer tutors, we can assist you with most of your questions about numerical skills, algebra, geometry, trigonometry and calculus. We will try to give you a better understanding of mathematical concepts which, in turn, will help you earn better grades. We maintain a library of current math texts, solution manuals, and old exams for use by students and tutors. The sample exams may be taken out on loan with the presentation of a student I.D. card. So, if you're perplexed by math or just want to enhance your skills, stop by 220 Boucke or 206 Johnston Commons and see a math tutor.
The Tutoring Center
The Tutoring Center offers students free assistance in a variety of first- and second-year general education courses. If you want to develop a better understanding of course content and/or improve your grade, you can meet with us in two ways: individually or as part of a small group. We offer tutoring in courses such as BI SC 4, BIOL 141, CHEM 202, PHYS 212, SOC 1, PSY 2, and STAT 100. You decide what to work on. We can help you develop confidence in your ability to master course content. The Tutoring Center offers the help you need to get the grades you want. Don't wait until it's too late. Start your tutoring sessions now!
The Undergraduate Writing Center
The CEW Undergraduate Writing Center offers free drop-in service and some appointment hours to students through the cooperative efforts of the ULC and the Center for Excellence in Writing. At the Undergraduate Writing Center, we can help you with any kind of writing, including the following: research papers, lab reports, business letters, text for speeches, proposals, essays, drafts, and revisions. During most semesters, we also offer appointments with tutors who specialize in working with student writers who speak English as a second language. As undergraduate peer tutors, we know that writing can be difficult. We are trained in a semester-long course to encourage writers to be independent. We discuss your writing with you and help you analyze your own work; we do not proofread or edit for you. So, if you want to discuss an assignment, polish a final draft, or further develop your writing skills, come see us. We would like to talk with you.
Supplemental Instruction
SI is a learning enhancement program designed to support the academic work of students enrolled in "high risk" first-year courses. We work with faculty who teach courses such as: BMB 211, CHEM 110, CHEM 112, MATH 110, PHYS 211 and STAT 200. As undergraduate students who have previously taken the course and succeeded, we are hired as SI leaders and are trained to assist our peers with mastery of that course's content. We attend all related class lectures and are responsible for conducting two to three collaborative learning sessions per week. During these informal sessions you can: review text and lecture materials, use the language of the discipline, organize notes, and develop critical thinking and problem-solving skills. For more information about session times, listen to in-class announcements, consult the ULC Web page or stop by any ULC location for more information.
Learning Skills
Mastering academic skills remains one of the most challenging issues for university students today. Our Learning Skills consultants are undergraduates trained to help you master the academic skills you need to be successful in your college courses. Our peer Learning Skills consultants will help you meet the challenge and responsibility of college learning; improve the quality of your academic performance; get the most out of the time you invest in learning; become a more confident and independent learner; and prepare for life-long learning. Our free service offers assistance in: note taking, time management, test preparation, reading comprehension, test taking, and test anxiety. We can also present workshops on learning skills in your class or for your organization. Learn how to learn at the ULC by making an appointment with one of our consultants today!
The Language Center
The first few levels of a language can be challenging, and we are especially devoted to helping you master them. We offer drop-in tutoring in languages such as Spanish, French, Italian, Russian, French and Japanese. For evening drop-in hours in 7 Sparks, pick up a flyer at any ULC location or visit our Web site at http://www.ulc.psu.edu/. Visit the Language Center today. We can help you on your way to understanding your chosen language.
Technology Center
Technology Tutors are trained undergraduate students who offer consulting and assistance to answer your questions or help you solve problems with technology-based projects. We are experienced in computer programs such as M.S. Office, e-mail, Web page design and video editing, and can provide you with one-on-one computer training in our centers.
Teamwork Center
The Teamwork Center has five work areas where groups of up to six students can collaborate on class assignments, projects, or presentations. Each area is equipped with a large table, computer, and chalkboard. Soon, groups will be able to request a peer tutor to help them with organization, content, or technology. Spaces can be reserved and walk-ins are welcome! Check the web sit for current information.