students and tutors studying at the Learning Commons center

Student Success Resources

Tutoring Services offers a variety of student success resources. Study Skills Sessions are available for students to learn strategies to improve their skills in organization, time management, test taking and studying. To request an appointment, complete the Tutoring Services Request Form.

The following student success tips have been developed through Tutoring Services

Learning Tips and Resources

Get Help

Take advantage of the Learning Commons assistance options.

Only 2% of the population can multitask. Even if you feel like you’re multitasking, you’re probably just switching between tasks very quickly (micro-tasking). 

Negatives of Multitasking/ Micro-tasking

  • Assignments take longer: Each time you come back to an assignment, you have get familiar with it, find your spot, remember what you were going to do next.
  • You’re more likely to make mistakes: Distractions and switching between tasks tires out the brain.
  • You will remember less: When your brain is divided you’re less able to commit knowledge to long-term memory.

Monotask Instead

  • Focus on one thing at a time
  • Take breaks between tasks
  • Use the Pomodoro Method To improve focus, work for 25 or 50 minutes then reward yourself with a 5 or 10 minute break.

Time management is key to success. Setting a schedule can help provide structure and motivation.

Include the following activities on a daily or weekly calendar:

  • School work
  • Work schedule and chores
  • Social activities
  • Exercise
  • Self-care activities

Look for ways to adapt your usual habits or form new ones. 

Switch up Your Environment

Trouble focusing while studying at home? Ask yourself what kind of environment helps you study. Try the library, coffee house, outdoor spaces, and other places that might give your brain a fresh restart.

Study With Others

Try forming a study group with friends/peers.

Seek Academic Assistance From a Tutor

COD offers course-based tutoring and study skills assistance through Tutoring Services in the Learning Commons.

Connect with family, friends, instructors, and colleagues for a healthy school and life experience. Stay in touch with instructors and classmates to complete coursework effectively.

  • See your instructors during office hours.
  • Communicate with friends and classmates.
  • Participate in activities, clubs, and groups on campus.
  • Take advantage of Learning Commons services.
  • Don't procrastinate: Gather information and materials early enough to give you sufficient preparation time.
  • Read exam/assignment guidelines: When is the exam or project due? Is there a time limit?
  • Know the format: Is it an essay, short answer, or multiple choice test? Is it a presentation?
  • Test yourself and/or rehearse: Take a practice test or create practice questions. Don't cram the night before. You will absorb more over time. Practice your presentation on camera or in front of others.
  • Ask a tutor: Get study and test prep tips from a tutor supporting the course or general study skills.
  • Gather your materials: Gather notes, book, scratch paper, calculator, and any other tools/materials allowed the night before the exam/presentation.

 

Self-Care Resources

Academic study can be stressful. If you are experiencing anxiety, seek assistance. Counseling, Advising, and Transfer Services at COD supports the emotional well-being of students by offering short-term, confidential, personal counseling to admitted College of DuPage students at no additional cost.

Contact Information

Learning Commons
Student Resource Center (SRC), Room 2102
Call: (630) 942-3940
Email: learningcommons@cod.edu 
Hours of Operation

Mathematics Assistance
(630) 942-3339
Email: math-assist@cod.edu

Writing, Reading, Speech Assistance
(630) 942-3355
Email: wrsa@cod.edu

Tutoring Services
(630) 942-3686
Email: tutoring@cod.edu