OLA Tutoring is open! Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Who can use OLA services?

University of Hawaiʻi undergraduates!

(If you attend a school listed below, we can tutor you!)

  • Hawaiʻi Community College
  • University of Hawaiʻi at Hilo
  • Hawaiʻi Community College—Pālamanui
  • North Hawaiʻi Education and Research Center
  • University of Hawaiʻi Maui College
  • UH Center–Maui
  • Hana Education Center
  • Lānaʻi Education Center
  • Lahaina Education Center
  • Honolulu Community College
  • Kapiʻolani Community College
  • Leeward Community College
  • University of Hawaiʻi at Mānoa
  • University of Hawaiʻi–West Oʻahu
  • Windward Community College
  • Waiʻanae Education Center
  • Kauaʻi Community College
  • UH Center–Kauaʻi

How does OLA work?

The Online Learning Academy (OLA) hires and trains University of Hawaii college students to tutor UH undergraduate students in math, science, and writing. OLA utilizes “STAR Balance” to easily schedule tutoring appointments for math, science, and writing!

 

Where do I get tutored?

OLA tutors can help you anywhere you have an internet connection and access to Zoom. OLA uses “STAR Balance” to schedule tutoring by appointment. Once you are scheduled, join the provided Zoom link when it’s time for your appointment.

Does OLA provide tutoring to early college or middle and high school students?

At this time, OLA provides tutoring to only undergraduate college students. In the past, OLA received additional external funding through federally-funded partnerships to support Hawaiʻi’s middle/high school students. Hawaii Department of Education (HIDOE) has partnered with tutor.com to provide free unlimited access to 24/7, individualized tutoring services to participating HIDOE public schools. If you are a middle or high school student, please confirm that your school participates in tutor.com services. 

 

Does ola provide tutoring for placement tests?

OLA does not offer tutoring for students studying for placement exams (Chemistry, Math, etc.) Students must be currently enrolled in the class for which they are seeking tutoring in. For students looking for additional help, please see the websites linked above for respective placement test resources, or tutor.com.

Does OLA provide support for courses taken during previous semesters?

OLA offers support to students who are currently enrolled in the class for which they are seeking help in. If you would like support for previous courses, we encourage you to connect with your professors, and utilize tutor.com (UH CC students) for detailed study guides/assistance.

 

Why can’t i see any available appointments?

 While there may be multiple reasons, the most common one is that all our tutors have appointments at that time. Please check other days for availability. We are open Monday-Thursday. Additionally, make sure to select a class on the left-hand side menu before checking for availability. 

What should I expect?

As a new student, your tutor will spend the first few minutes helping you feel comfortable with Zoom. Then, you will establish a couple of goals for the session together or ways that we can help you out with your assignment. Finally, you will begin your tutoring!

How do I get the most out of my session?

To get the most out of your session, complete the pre-appointment form which is sent to your email after booking an appointment.  Come to your session with a set goal to help maximize what you’ll accomplish during the session. If your assignment has a rubric or you have a document you want to use during your session, upload it to the pre-appointment form. Don’t be afraid to ask clarifying questions! Tutors are there to make the session as productive and helpful as possible.

Do I need to have a headset or use audio?

Although optional, it is recommended to utilize audio communication to increase communication response time significantly. You may use the audio through your computer microphone/speaker or a headset. By default, tutors will utilize audio communication and test the audio with you at the beginning of your session. If you prefer the tutor to use message chats, let your tutor know at the start of the session.

Why does my tutor ask so many questions?

Our tutors are trained to guide you and are expected to do this through questioning to assess your understanding. They will not simply provide answers but will help you work through your areas of need. Please ask the tutors any questions that you have!

Can I drop off my paper for edits?

OLA does not have a paper drop-off tutoring service. Students must meet with the writing tutor for scheduled appointments. Together, we will work with you to improve your paper! Our goal is to help you learn and grow. If you’d like help with something specific, like your thesis, your tutor will work to understand your argument and offer suggestions to make it clearer and stronger. We can also direct you toward helpful writing resources. Our feedback is designed to guide you through your paper and throughout your education!

What if I’m late or need to reschedule?  

If you are 15 minutes late, your session will be marked as a “no-show,” and you will need to schedule another session. Students can cancel or reschedule their appointment a minimum of one hour before their scheduled appointment. Appointments cancelled with less than an hour notice will be marked as a “no show.” Please provide as much notice as possible so the appointment can be open to another student.

Have Unanswered Questions?

Contact us at ola@hawaii.edu

University of Hawaiʻi at Mānoa
3131 Maile Way, AEI 108
Honolulu, Hawaii 96822



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