Help a student choose a study group support step

Students sometimes describe a study group problem as proof that they do not belong in a course. A success coach can listen for the practical barrier underneath that conclusion. The next step may involve tutoring, an instructor's office hours, or a peer resource, depending on what the student needs and what the course offers.

Owen says, "Everyone in my statistics group already understands the material. I should probably stop going. Can you tell me how to pass on my own?" Coach Leila responds, "It sounds frustrating to feel behind in a group. Which topics are causing the most trouble, and what support have you tried so far?" Owen says probability problems move too quickly and he has not attended office hours. Leila says, "I cannot predict a course result, but we can make a plan for getting clearer on those problems. Your instructor can explain the course expectations, and the tutoring center may have a session that fits your schedule. Would you like to bring one missed problem to office hours and ask the tutoring center about its statistics schedule?" Owen chooses a Wednesday session and writes a question for his instructor.

Leila avoids treating a student's self judgment as the final fact. She helps Owen name a specific learning need and choose two places that can address it. The plan is small enough to complete before the next assignment.

For practice, take a vague statement such as "I am bad at this class" and ask two questions that identify a topic and a recent attempt. Then offer two resources with different roles. Review whether your response leaves academic assessment with the instructor.