Kirkwood Community College academic coach Myranda Hadley and her team have reported a 243% increase in visits to the Learning Commons this semester. The Learning Commons is a free resource where Kirkwood students can study, read and get help with coursework.
Hadley attributes the increase in visits, in part, to recent marketing efforts by the Learning Commons staff.
“Part of it, I think, is the marketing,” said Hadley. “We’re getting the word out a little bit more, and I think the second piece really speaks to the service we provide. Once students know about us and use our support, they like what they see; they like what they experience. We have a great space here, where students can feel welcome.”
The Learning Commons offers quiet study areas, walk-in support and one-on-one assistance in person and virtually. Students can also receive help developing skills in time management, studying, note-taking and test preparation.
Hadley emphasized the importance of building relationships with students who regularly visit the Learning Commons. The center offers free academic support in subjects including anatomy and physiology, social science, respiratory therapy and automotive technology.
One-on-one academic support is available by appointment. With the increase in visits, the Learning Commons was able to hire a new academic coach.
Hadley accentuated the value of seeking academic support.
“I would say that nine times out of 10, if not 10 times out of 10, the students we work with are happy that they did come in and wish they would have gotten that support sooner,” she said.
The Learning Commons also offers free on-demand workshops through StudentLingo on MyHub. All Learning Commons services are included in students’ tuitions at no additional cost.
The Learning Commons is located on the second floor of Cedar Hall and is open from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday. Students can call 319-398-7600 or schedule an appointment through the Kirkwood website.
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