Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I get tutored?

The Online Learning Academy (OLA) provides free tutoring to UH-system undergraduates! Check out the “For Students” page to check if we provide tutoring for your school.

How does OLA work?

The Online Learning Academy (OLA) employs University of Hawaii students to provide math, science, and writing tutoring to UH-system undergraduate students. OLA uses the “https://hawaii.mywconline.net/” website to schedule and act as an online space for tutoring. The website allows for easy document import, editing, note-taking, and communication. 

Where do I get tutored?

Our OLA tutors can help you anywhere you have an internet connection through your internet browser. OLA uses the “https://hawaii.mywconline.net/” website to schedule and act as an online space for tutoring.

What should I expect?

As a new student, your tutor will spend the first few minutes helping you feel comfortable with the website. 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, fill out the appointment form as best as possible. The form gives your tutor an idea of what you’ll work on together. Come to your session with a set goal to help maximize what you’ll get. If your assignment has a rubric, attach it to the appointment form, too! Don’t be afraid to ask clarifying questions! Tutors are there to make the session as productive and helpful as possible.

What subjects do you tutor?

Math and Science   

Our Math and Science tutors primarily consist of University of Hawaii students majoring in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math), capable of tutoring students in…
  • Mathematics (Up to Calculus II)
  • Biology (Up to BIO 172L)
  • Chemistry (Up to CHEM 162)
  • Physics (Up to PHYS 272)
Many tutors are capable of tutoring subjects beyond the level listed above. Examples include…
  • Our Engineering tutors can potentially tutor up to Calculus IV, Physics, and other Engineering courses.
  • Our Biochemistry tutors can potentially tutor more advanced courses such as Organic Chemistry and Microbiology.

If you are requesting help with certain higher-level subjects not listed above, email ola@hawaii.edu for more information.

Writing   

Our Writing tutors consist of University of Hawaii students with excellent writing skills. Our tutors can assist you with various topics including but not limited to…
  • Homework
  • Citations
  • Research
  • Summary and Analysis
We can help you with nearly anything. From brainstorming ideas for an outline to putting the finishing touches on a twenty-page paper, we’re here for you. If there’s writing involved, we’re here to help, no matter what class you’re taking.

What are your tutors’ qualifications?

Math and Science   

Our math and science tutors are UH undergraduate students with a range of STEM backgrounds – Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math. If you want more information on any specific tutor, feel free to check out the tutor bios on our Tutors page!
Writing   
Our writing tutors are UH undergraduate or graduate students with a range of writing and tutoring experiences. That, combined with our general love of writing, means that we are dedicated to helping you in any way that we can. If you want more information on any specific tutor, feel free to check out the tutor bios on our Tutors page!

How many students can be assisted by one tutor?  

All of our sessions are run one-on-one, and we run them at your desired pace. When you come to see us, you will have our undivided attention.

How often can I see a tutor?  

You may schedule one appointment (45 minutes) per day, and up to two appointments per week.

When can I schedule an appointment?  

Currently, you can schedule an appointment up to two weeks in advance. We also accept same-day appointments as long as they are created before the appointment time. So, if you want to schedule your appointment at 5:00 pm, make your appointment at least by 4:30 pm.

How do I cancel an appointment?

If you wish to cancel an appointment, click on your created appointment and scroll to the bottom. You will find a link labeled “Cancel Appointment” in red.

How early should I log in?  

You should log on 5 minutes before your appointment to ensure everything works correctly. Once your appointment starts, your tutor will join the session room.

What if I’m late?  

If you are 15 minutes late, your session will be marked as a “no-show,” and you may reschedule another session. Clients are welcome to cancel or reschedule their appointment anytime before their appointment.

How do I end my session?

OLA uses the “https://hawaii.mywconline.net/” website as an online space for tutoring. You can end your tutoring session by closing the tab.

Can I see my previous tutee session?

Tutor sessions can be saved by clicking the save button at the end, allowing you to view the whiteboard you and your tutor worked on during your session. The tutor will also recommend that the client copy the session notes onto a separate sheet or export them for easy reference afterward.

How do I change my appointment time?

There are two ways to change your appointment time. You can click on the appointment you scheduled initially, choose a new start and end time, and click “Save Changes.” This will only work if the new time is available to be scheduled. The second option is to cancel your original appointment and create a new appointment at the desired time and/or with your desired tutor.

Does this work on PC and Mac?

Yes, absolutely! Although we can never predict any technical difficulties that may occur, our tutoring works on both PC and Mac. However, not all tablets work well with our site. If you use a tablet to join your tutoring session, not all features may be available, but we will always do our best to accommodate everyone.

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.

How does the tutoring session start?

At the start of the tutoring session, you will be greeted by your tutor. The tutor will then test the audio, collect a small amount of personal information for OLA’s records, and then get you started with the tutoring. If it’s your first time, the tutor will explain the tools and have you try things out. Ask lots of questions!

Why is personal information collected at the start of each session?

We ask for your name, school, and demographic information to meet state and federal record keeping and reporting requirements. This information also helps verify OLA tutoring eligibility and tracks program progress. All supplied information is confidential.

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!

Will you edit my paper?

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 assignment and throughout your education!

Have Unanswered Questions?

Contact us at ola@hawaii.edu

Contact Form

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

(808) 956-3714

 ola@hawaii.edu

© All text Copyright 2024, University of Hawaiʻi at Mānoa, Online Learning Academy.