Tutorials take place in a one-to-one setting:

Tutors meet with students for any length of time, from as little as 15 minutes to as long as two of three hours. The tutorial is centered on the individual writer�s needs. The tutor and writer might meet on a walk-in or a regular basis, by the writer's personal choice or as a result of a recommendation or requirement.

Tutors are collaborators, not instructors:

The goal is to improve the writer, not the writing, so tutors do not serve to evaluate students' work. Tutors should facilitate discussion with the student about the writing process. They can ask questions to get the student thinking about his/her topic and to develop ideas. Tutors may offer feedback for drafts at any stage, suggest strategies, question misunderstood concepts, and offer perspective as a reader and a tutor.

A student's individual needs are a guide for the tutorial:

The starting point for every tutorial is a discussion about the student�s needs, concerns, or desires. The tutor, with the help of the student, sets the agenda for the tutorial by examining the writing assignment and class requirements, the student�s writing history, the student�s writing habits, and the student�s attitude toward learning and writing. The student should be encouraged to actively participate in the development of the tutorial.

Help is available for writing in any course:

Writing centers not only aid students in writing courses, but also students throughout the entire school. Tutors are available to help with lab reports, term papers, job applications and resumes, and any other writing project the student may be working on. Tutors may also be available as a resource for students taking writing competency tests.

Tutors are available for every level of proficiency:

Because the tutor and student are able to meet one-on-one, the tutor is able to meet each student�s individual needs. This means that the tutor is capable of adjusting the tutorial according to the particular needs of the student. Regardless of the student's individual abilities, the tutor's goal is to help the student develop basic writing skills. Positive reinforcement, collaboration, and a listening ear are crucial for making the student comfortable in a tutorial, especially if the student is not confident with his/her writing abilities.

This information is condensed from Muriel Harris' article: SLATE (Support for the Learning and Teaching of English) Statement: The Concept of a Writing Center which can be found on the International Writing Centers Association website: slate