General Description
The Academic Skills Center (ASC) at Heritage University provides several
services designed for new and returning students. The ASC provides individual
tutoring and small group study sessions in English, mathematics, and all
General University Requirements. Tutors for advanced classes are recruited
on a semester by semester basis. Additionally, the ASC utilizes written
resource materials and computer assisted instruction. For students who have
missed tests, a make-up test service is provided. The Center's goal is to
help each student become a successful, independent learner.
Academic Placement Testing
The Academic Skills Center (ASC) provides initial assessment testing
to assist students in selecting courses (English, mathematics, and computer
science) that they will be comfortable taking as they begin their academic
careers at Heritage University. The test results determine the student’s
class selection, enabling greater student success. The Nelson-Denny Reading
Test and the COMPASS-ESL are given. Locally developed basic math, algebra,
and writing exams are also given. Approximate time for the initial assessment
is three hours. Results are provided to students in personal conferences
or by telephone. In addition, copies of the assessment test results and
suggested course plans are distributed to the student and the advisor with
the admission letter, a copy of the information is kept in the ASC. The
ASC staff advises students who have not declared a major.
Tutorial Support
Tutorial support is provided by faculty members and by peer tutors who
are hired specifically to tutor. In addition, some instructors volunteer
additional time outside of their regular office hours. Most peer tutors
are work-study students who have mastered particular subjects. Tutors are
selected for their ability to be patient and supportive while fostering academic
independence. Access to tutoring is available through referral from the
instructor or by direct request from the student.
The most common kind of tutoring is one-on-one or small group sessions. Many
individual sessions happen on a drop-in basis; however, group sessions are
usually arranged by appointment. Some students organize themselves into small
study groups and use the ASC as the site for their study.
Computer-assisted instruction (CAI) is available to students who want to study
independently. Some software is available that includes pre-testing and post-testing
in reading, math, writing, and grammar. After the pre-test, students are directed
to study specific modules within the program. When all recommended modules
are completed, the students post-test. Students may access most CAI software
through the campus computer network. Some software use is free and some requires
payment of a fee.
During semesters, the ASC is open Monday-Saturday. Hours for Monday to Thursday
are 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. Hours on Friday are from 8:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.,
and Saturday from 12:00 noon to 5:00 p.m.