Academic Support Services for Students
Critical Reading and Learning Strategies Course (GS110)
This course is an introduction to best practices in reading and learning, such as description, interpretation, and evaluation of texts. The primary assumption is that we become better students as we become better readers.
- For Whom? This course is for everyone who needs to sharpen or hone reading and learning strategies; however, some students are invited to take the class based on achievement scores submitted for admission.
- Purpose: The primary focus of this course is on the practice of effective reading and learning strategies for the liberal arts student. When we read critically, we aim to withhold judgment until we have considered the text carefully and thoughtfully. Therefore in this class we practice active reading strategies such as questioning, note-taking, outlining, underlining, and reciting (paraphrasing and summarizing) to interpret and evaluate written texts. Graduation from Luther College and professional success thereafter depends on the ability to master reading and learning strategies. In short, at the end of this course, students will be better readers and learners than they were at the start.
Independent/Group Study
The center provides the setting for students to schedule regular study time, under the supervision of SASC staff. Times are preset and monitored during the semester. Student groups are also encouraged to arrange special study sessions and times at the center.
Learning Assessment
One of the services provided by SASC is assessment of individual learning needs through a personal interview and/or use of either the College Student Inventory (CSI) or the Learning and Study Skills Inventory (LASSI). For specific questions contact sasc@luther.edu or 563-387-1270
- The College Student Inventory (CSI): This inventory is designed for incoming first-year students and provides a measurement of 19 different scales organized under the following five categories: academic motivation, social motivation, general coping skills, receptivity to support services, initial impression.
With information from this inventory, an adviser/academic support staff can identify appropriate kinds of intervention for individual students. Publisher: Noel-Levitz, 2001 ACT Circle, Iowa City, IA 52245, (319) 337-4700 - Learning and Study Skills Inventory (LASSI): This inventory is an assessment tool designed to measure students' use of learning and study strategies and methods. It is a diagnostic and prescriptive measure.
The LASSI is meant to be used as: a diagnostic measure to help identify areas in which students could benefit most from educational interventions; a basis for planning individual prescription for both remediation and enrichment; a pre-post achievement measure for students who are enrolled in Critical Reading and Learning Strategies (GS 110) at Luther; an evaluation tool to assess the degree of success of intervention measures; a counseling tool for college learning centers.
There are 10 scales measuring attitude, motivation, time management, anxiety, concentration, information processing, selecting main ideas, study aids, self testing, and text strategies.
This inventory provides academic support staff with specific areas to be addressed through educational intervention. Publisher: H&H Publishing Co., 1231 Kapp Dr., Clearwater, Florida 33765, (800) 366-4079.
Model Notes
SASC offers sets of model class notes for Paideia I and Biology 121/122 (Principles of Biology). These are intended to complement students' notes. Students must show their own notes before accessing model lecture notes.
Student Support Services (SSS) Federal TRIO Program
Student Support Services at Luther advocates for low-income students, first-generation students, and students with disabilities while they pursue and complete a degree in higher education. Meant to meet the needs of traditionally under-represented and under-served populations, SSS services and activities include academic support, counseling and mentoring, and cultural enrichment activities.
Study Strategies
SASC staff offer time to meet with students who may benefit from short-term individualized instruction in reading, time management, test-taking, self-testing, and note-taking. To make an appointment for individualized instruction, call extension 1270 or e-mail sasc@luther.edu.
Time Management
Tutoring
Tutors are available through SASC, the Writing Center, and selected academic departments. See the tutoring page for more information and to request a tutor online.