Frequently Asked Questions

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What does Learning Services do?

Learning Services supports and enhances student learning and academic performance by providing services to undergraduate and graduate students, faculty, TAs, and staff. We address many topics necessary for effective learning in the university environment, including working in groups, managing time and reducing procrastination, learning from lectures and texts, preparing for exams, and academic presentations.

What kinds of services are offered?

We provide individual and small group assistance, workshops, short, non-credit courses, customized programs for special groups, in-class presentations, and print and Web-based resources. With sufficient notice, we can create resources or programming tailored to the needs of a specific group of students by request from faculty, TAs, staff, or student groups.

I did well in high school — why would I use your services?

Our services are designed for students at any level, including graduate students, who want to enhance their current skills or develop new strategies and approaches for learning in a university environment.

What do you offer for students who are struggling academically?

Students can set up an individual consultation with one of our staff members, who will be happy to help create an action plan that focuses on study strategies, time management, procrastination, or any other issues that may be of concern.

What do you offer for undergraduate students?

We offer a range of workshops for undergraduates on topics related to managing time, reducing procrastination, preparing for midterms and exams, and writing multiple-choice exams. Learning Peer Helpers are available for individual and small group consultations for students who would like to plan and use their time more effectively or enhance their academic skills and performance. We also offer a range of in-print and online resources, many created by University of Guelph students, about strategies for succeeding academically at university. Please note that Peers do not provide "tutoring" — they focus on effective strategies and study approaches for dealing with different types of courses, rather than addressing specific content or assignments.

What do you offer for graduate students?

Learning Services is part of the award-winning Graduate Student Learning Initiative. We provide information and advice for graduate students coping with the self-management issues that commonly arise from thesis work or major writing projects, such as procrastination, perfectionism, and time planning. Assistance is available through workshops or individual consultations with staff.

What do you offer for faculty, TAs, and staff?

We offer a range of services for course instructors and others who work with students. We provide specialized expertise in integrating academic skills, such as presentation skills and group work skills, into courses through workshops, in-class lectures, or course-specific print or web-based resources. We also conduct needs assessments of students, consult on student learning and development issues, and participate on curriculum committees.

Where is Learning Services located?

Learning Services is a part of the University of Guelph's Learning Commons, and you can find us at the Learning Commons on the first floor of the Library.

How do I book an appointment?

To book a one-on-one or small group consultation, call extension 53632, or book an appointment over the Internet using our new online booking system.

How do I sign-up for a workshop?

You can sign-up for most of our workshops online through Reg. Simply go online to see details and to register for our workshops. If you can't find the workshop you're looking for on Reg, please call us at extension 53632 or email us at learning@uoguelph.ca

Who are Learning Peer Helpers and what do they do?

Learning Peers are current students who have been successful in their courses and are committed to helping other students get the most out of their academic experiences. Peers are extensively trained in learning theories and strategies, and can provide information and advice on how to succeed at university. Learning Peers lead workshops and meet one-on-one with undergraduate students.

What services have a fee?

Our workshops, consultations, and web resources are free.

I have more questions — whom should I contact?

For further information about our services, email learning@uoguelph.ca or contact Maryann Kope, Learning Services Co-ordinator at mkope@uoguelph.ca.

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