Session Outline

Abstract:

Scenario-based training plays a vital role in equipping university personal tutors with the practical skills and confidence required to support students effectively (Thomas et al, 2023 March). As the first point of contact for many students facing academic, personal, or wellbeing challenges, personal tutors must be well-prepared to navigate complex and sensitive issues. Traditional training methods often fall short in preparing tutors for the nuanced realities of student support (McFarlane, 2016). Scenario-based training bridges this gap by immersing tutors in realistic, interactive situations that mirror actual student concerns, ranging from mental health crises to academic misconduct and safeguarding disclosures. This approach not only enhances tutors’ understanding of institutional protocols and referral pathways, but also strengthens their decision-making skills, empathy, and communication. By promoting active learning, reflection, and collaboration, scenario-based training empowers personal tutors to respond appropriately and confidently, ensuring students receive timely and effective support (Thomas et al, 2023 June). As universities continue to prioritise student wellbeing and retention, investing in dynamic, scenario-based training for personal tutors is essential for fostering a responsive and knowledgeable academic support network, and ensures tutors to maintain appropriate professional limits and safeguard their own wellbeing.

The Workshop:

This 50 minute interactive workshop will focus on scenario-based training and its implementation for experienced or new personal tutors. Examples will be given on how certain scenarios can be addressed or discussed in more general terms acknowledging different procedures and processes in universities. As well as discussing and outlining the processes to follow we will also investigate the boundaries of Personal Tutoring and the importance or empowering students by encouraging their own development and resilience.

The workshop will feature eight scenarios, half will be everyday queries, and the other half will feature sensitive scenarios such as financial strain, pregnancy, domestic abuse, and racial prejudice. Those attending will put into groups and given time to discuss two scenarios per table. After which we will explore the boundaries and the most effective response as a Personal Tutor for each.

Outcome:

The benefit in discussing both difficult and common scenarios is that tutors are given real example of how to proceed when and if a similar situation occurs. It will also highlight the importance of colleague collaboration and support when acting as a Personal Tutor.

Learning Outcomes

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