Learning Support Services

Contact: Susan Bronstein

1020 W.E.B. Du Bois Library, 545-5334

The Learning Support Services (LSS) provides a full range of academic support services. Its mission is to improve retention and graduation rates at the University of Massachusetts Amherst by providing the learning support programs and self-development activities that give students the skills necessary for college success. Open during the academic year, LSS provides the following programs and services:

Peer Tutoring Program for individuals and small groups on a walk-in basis, and by appointment when needed.

Supplemental Instruction Program for traditionally difficult academic courses providing regularly scheduled, out-of-class, peer-facilitated study sessions. These informal review seminars help students compare notes, discuss readings, develop organizational tools, and predict test items.

Video Supplemental Instruction, in which the instructors of traditionally difficult courses place their course lectures on videotape. The taped lectures are used instructionally by a trained VSI Peer Leader and are stopped and restarted as needed to allow time for students to ask questions, interact, and discuss concepts.

A Study Skills Program which consists of workshops aimed at providing students with the tools needed to become more effective learners, including such skills as note-taking, time management, and test-taking strategies.

A Multimedia Lab which offers computer-aided, video, and audio instruction, and a library of written materials to assist students.

Students have access to PCs and Macintosh computers with current word processing and computer-aided instruction programs. LSS staff are available to answer questions about software and computer usage. Other equipment, including video and audiotape players, is available for academic use at the center.

Information on LSS courses and tutor certification may be found in the "Special Programs" section of this catalog, and on our web page at: http://www.umass.edu/lss.