DROP-IN ASSISTANCE INFORMATION

All SJCC students may use the Writing Center for assistance with writing on a drop-in basis. The following services are provided:

• Individual assistance with writing assignments
  English instructors and instructional assistants are available to help individual students and small groups with their writing assignments on a first-come, first-serve basis. Students should arrive with the instructor's directions for the assignments and specific questions for the kind of help they feel they need. Students may come singly or, if desired, with other classmates in small groups. Sessions with the instructional staff typically last 5-30 minutes, depending on student need and the number of students waiting; there is no limit to the number of times students can return for additional help. Unless the Center is very busy, the waiting time to see one of the instructional staff is usually 30 minutes or less.
   
• Use of PC and Macintosh Computers
  Computers are available for students typing papers, using Writing Center software, and completing class assignments. At non-busy times students may use the computers to access email and use the Internet, following the guidelines in the handout Acceptable Computer Use at San Jose City College. Help is available for students new to computers and word processing.
   
• Use of lab materials
  Lab materials which are available include the following:
  - References such as dictionaries, handbooks, research guides, etc.
  - Printed tutorials, exercises and other handouts on grammar and writing
  - Software programs for improving grammar and writing

To use the Writing Center services, students come to the Writing Center and enroll in a 0-unit, 0-cost section of the course entitled "Supervised Tutoring" (LS 210). After completion of required paperwork, the Center staff will enroll the student in the appropriate section of LS 210. It is not necessary to go to Admissions and Records. Once enrolled, students will be able to use the Center as often as desired throughout the semester.

There are also a limited number of writing tutors available to work with students during scheduled 1-hour appointments on an ongoing, regular basis throughout the semester. Students interested in this kind of tutoring should speak to one of the instructional assistants in the Center.