Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Who can use OLA services?

UH-system 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) employs University of Hawaii students to tutor UH-system undergraduate students in math, science, and writing. OLA uses the “Star Balance” to easily schedule writing and drop-in tutoring appointments for math and science!

Where do I get tutored?

Our OLA tutors can help you anywhere you have an internet connection and access to Zoom. OLA uses the “Star Balance” website to schedule tutoring and act as a queue. Once you are scheduled or in line, you may join the provided Zoom link when ready.

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!

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, 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 or you have a document you want to use during your session, email it to ola@hawaii.edu. Also, 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!

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!

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.

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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(808) 956-3714

 ola@hawaii.edu

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