Research shows that one-on-one assistance can have a profound impact on children, but only when the tutors are equipped with high-quality training and supervision (Wasik, 1998).  All TLC tutors specialize in one tutoring area – reading, writing or mathematics – and participate in a mandatory training seminar that meets on the Tufts campus throughout the academic year.  In addition to general instruction in child development, teaching and learning, on-campus supervision involves a close assessment of each child in the program, so that the tutoring agenda can be tailored to match each child’s needs. Tutoring invariably works best when tutors have the opportunity to communicate with classroom teachers, so that they can align their work with the teacher’s goals and recommendations. 

If they are to help children, the tutors and mentors must have a solid repertoire of teaching strategies and a confidential forum where they can discuss their work. The most immediate goal of the seminar, therefore, is to provide high-quality training and supervision.

As part of the Tisch College network, the TLC is dedicated to giving Tufts students and experience that will inspire their involvement in community service long after their graduate. Reflection sessions offer students support as they integrate their work with the TLC into their value systems and career paths.

Research teachers from the Center for Reading and Language Research and faculty from the Eliot-Pearson Department of Child Development contribute to the training.