GPA+ Solutions Academic Workshops
About
Unlike traditional tutoring focused on a specific subject, I offer academic workshops in client schools and work with individuals to improve the ways students of all ages approach study reading. The information provided and strategies acquired are based on published research presenting self-testing, or quizzing yourself, as THE most effective study strategy. Combined with the Cornell method for "making" notes, and having a specific study system, students (learners) are able to become more efficient. No long-term commitment or multiple sessions are required, although brief follow-up sessions are of course helpful as requested. The ability to apply consistent and enhanced skills and habits for immediate and accessible "learning how to learn" awareness is extremely valuable through graduate school and in the workplace.
Sharing how to read homework - or work - assignments in order to prove that the material has indeed been read, understood, and retained is an enjoyable challenge. For students, it eliminates not being able to answer a question asked in class or on a test because you, the student, have practiced answering questions as part of your normal approach to your reading. Seeing the results and the positive reaction of learners of all ages is always a good thing for anyone coaching or teaching others. Many students work long hours to achieve good grades and are relieved to find that rereading is no longer necessary and they are no longer just taking notes but have become note makers.
See www.gpaplussolutions.com or GPA+ Solutions, LLC on Facebook for more extensive and specific information about the academic workshop approach. The blogs posted on the website may be of particular interest.
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Frequently asked questions
What is your typical process for working with a new student?
I normally conduct academic workshop sessions for interested students, and faculty and parents, at client schools. Locally I am available to work with individuals or groups in the same session formate of 2 1/2 to 3 hours, using a Powerpoint presentation but providing accompanying handouts used to make personal notes on most of the material.
The information provided can be of immediate and ongoing basis if offered through individual or small group tutoring sessions.
What education and/or training do you have that relates to your work?
I have been a MS teacher and earned a Ph.D. in School Administration from the University of Colorado. For 29 years I was Associate Director of a leading provider of on-campus reading and study skills programs for day and boarding school students throughout the world. I supervised the hiring and training of aproximately 630 teaching staff and over 40,000 students participated in the courses I coordinated in client schools.
I completed 24 years of Army active duty and reserve service and my status is Colonel, United States Army, Retired.
I served on the Board of Trustees for Suffolk University and have been a member of Kiwanis for 40 years. I am Immediate Past President of the Kiwanis Club of Hanson and Foundation, served as a Lieutenant Governor in the New England & Bermuda District of Kiwanis, and participated as a member of the District Finance Committee. For 2015-2016 I was recognised as the Outstanding Lieutenant Governor (of 26 Division LTGs).
Do you have a standard pricing system for your lessons? If so, please share the details here.
I have the ability and flexibility to accommodate session pricing, with a goal of maintaining a reasonable fee for the time and value provided. Generally a three-hour session would be $150-$200, with the possibility of reductions for additional participants. My goal is to lessen the need for several sessions, minimizing fees but maximizing results.
How did you get started teaching?
I started as a JHS teacher for the Boston Public Schools, until drafted in the Army. That lead to a variety of assignments and on to graduate school.
What types of students have you worked with?
Over many years I have conducted workshops primarily for HS students, but classes often included MS students, parents, and school faculty and administrators. In addition I have offered individual tutoring for learners at all levels.
Describe a recent event you are fond of.
I ask workshop participants to answer a few exit survey type questions. I am pleased that over 90% of the responses are positive and offer gratitude for the opportunity to get such practical advice. See my website for examples of reviews, not only from students but also parents and administrators.
Examples of student reactions, which I consider a report card based on my goals and if I have achieved them:
(Grade 9) "Today I learned about making better notes by going back in a passage and asking myself, 'do I really understand this?' and if I don't, then I can develop questions that will make me think...It will help me pay attention to detail."
(Grade 11) "I learned how to take notes that reduce the amount of time I spend studying. I learned many new things about how to improve academically that can also be applied to sports."
(Grade 10) "I learned how to recite; it will help me shift information from short-term memory to long-term memory."
(Grade 10) "I learned the importance of study buddies and the power of comprehension when doing any assignment."
(Grade 8) "It was helpful and I feel more prepared for the following days of school."
(Grade 9) "I feel a lot more confident with how I'm going to start studying and doing my homework...(Dr. Lozeau) did a very good job explaining and helping me better understand what I should be doing to make myself better academically."
(Grade 9) "This was helpful because it changed my attitude and work ethic."
What advice would you give a student looking to hire a teacher in your area of expertise?
Learning how to learn covers many subjects and academic performance from MS through graduate school and beyond. There is certainly an advantage to getting help with specific subjects; but knowing which learning strategies have been found to be most effective will have a greater impact.
What questions should students think through before talking to teachers about their needs?
Ask yourself if your challenge in a particular subject is the subject/teacher or might it be your own mindset and lack of effective strategies for reading and preparing for class and exams. Let’s work together to reach your immediate and long-term goals.