Abstract

Most tutors in the Partnerships for Student Achievement (PSA) AmeriCorps program in Washington County, Oregon, are college graduates interested in pursuing careers in education. Program coordinator Jeri Lerwick wanted to provide regular training to her members as well as the opportunity to acquire graduate credits in education. Through a cooperative agreement with Pacific University in Forest Grove, Oregon, PSA members take a two-semester, four credit graduate course in Issues in Oregon Education. Members complete coursework including term papers and informal observation and research. The university also offers a considerable discount on tuition, which PSA pays for from funds allocated for training.

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Issue

Combining training and service in education simultaneously with advancement towards a graduate degree.

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Action

Through a cooperative agreement with Pacific University in Forest Grove, OR, PSA members take a two-semester, four credit graduate course in Issues in Oregon Education. Once a week a professor from the university attends the weekly team meeting and provides two-three hours of instruction on topics such as student management, special education, and working with English language learners, as well as state-specific issues, such as CIM and CAM requirements. Members complete coursework including term papers and informal observation and research. The university also offers a considerable discount on tuition, which PSA pays for from funds allocated for training.

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Context

PSA currently has 21 members serving in 20 schools in five districts (2002). All of the sites are in Washington County, which has a considerable population of English language learners. This unique partnership between PSA and Pacific University gives members access to the library and other campus-based services in addition to the course and credit.

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Outcome

Tutees benefit because their tutors are acquiring formal education training and relevant skills. Teachers and schools benefit as members share what they learn with teachers and bring new ideas into the classroom. Finally, members see their confidence and skills increase and earn valuable graduate credits while serving their community.

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Evidence

Members and schools report that targeted instruction is beneficial to member performance and, in turn, student performance. Members find the course intellectually stimulating and a good opportunity for meaningful discussions on relevant topics. As many of PSA's members are interested in becoming educators, the additional credits from the field are appreciated.

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Posted On

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For More Information

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Resources

LEARNS is a partnership of the Northwest Regional Educational Laboratoryand the Bank Street College of Education. LEARNS provides training and technical assistance to Corporation for National and Community Service and Federal Work Study projects focused on literacy and education.

Source Documents

Related Practices

• Earning a graduate degree while serving as an AmeriCorps*VISTA member

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Related sites

Pacific University (Oregon)

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