Penn Literacy Network aims to shake up tutoring industry with innovative partnership
In this publication, learn about an innovative partnership between the Penn Literacy Network (PLN) and Thinkist. Chief Education Officer, Dr. Mark Manasse, is leading a groundbreaking initiative to reimagine tutoring by integrating social-emotional and metacognitive skill development into high school peer tutoring. Supported by a $2.2 million federal grant, this initiative hopes to train nearly 2,000 high school students across Pennsylvania to tutor middle schoolers, focusing on creating purpose-driven, empathetic, and academically strong tutors. Dr. Manasse highlighted the program’s unique impact, stating, “By focusing on social-emotional skills and real-world applications, we’re creating a model that not only improves academic outcomes but fosters future educators.” This innovative approach aims to address the national teacher shortage while setting new standards in effective, student-centered tutoring.
Creating a Teacher Pipeline at San Diego Mesa College
The Tutor-to-Teacher Pipeline program at San Diego Mesa College, led by Dr. Mark Manasse, is transforming the path from tutoring to teaching. Aimed at addressing the national teacher shortage and fostering diversity in education, the program provides high school students with college-level education and tutor training courses. This initiative not only builds a diverse teaching workforce but also empowers students, like Alexis Huerta Polanco, to discover their passion for teaching and impact lives. The program is recognized for its innovative approach in education, including partnerships and specialized programs like DEBER for bilingual educators, contributing significantly to diversifying the teaching profession.
Peer Mentoring Works… And Now It’s Scalable
In his publication, Thinkist, an edtech startup from San Diego that assists schools in establishing and managing peer tutoring programs, discusses peer mentoring programs. These programs are designed to close equity gaps and help build a diverse teacher pipeline. The Chief Educational Officer, Mark Manasse, leverages his extensive experience in education and tutoring to train peer tutors in effective, high-engagement methods. These methods focus on critical thinking and problem-solving, addressing not just academic concepts but also the anxiety and confusion students often face in learning. Thinkist combines technology and a comprehensive training approach to make peer tutoring scalable and manageable for school districts, with ongoing partnerships in various states.
Supporting Online Community College Students with Trained Tutors in a Post-COVID World
In his publication “Supporting Online Community College Students with Trained Tutors in a Post-COVID World,” featured in the Journal of College Academic Support Programs (2022), Dr. Mark Manasse delves into innovative strategies to empower online community college students. Through the implementation of trained tutors, he explores effective approaches to support learners in a rapidly changing educational landscape, with a focus on post-pandemic challenges and opportunities for student success.
Building a Culture of Leadership: The Growth of Educational Professionals
In his publication “Building a Culture of Leadership: The Growth of Educational Professionals” in the Chronicle of Mentoring and Coaching (2020), Dr. Mark Manasse delves into the creation of educational leaders, drawing upon his four pillars of tutoring, leadership, andragogy, and equity. Through this comprehensive framework, he provides valuable insights and practical guidance on fostering a culture of leadership within educational settings, empowering professionals to excel in their roles and make a positive impact on their institutions and communities.
Tutoring Needs and Perceptions
In the publication “Tutoring Needs and Perceptions” in Career Education for San Diego Imperial Community Colleges (2019), Dr. Mark Manasse explores the essential aspects of tutoring within the context of career education. Through this study, he examines the unique needs and perceptions of students seeking tutoring assistance, shedding light on effective strategies and approaches to enhance tutoring programs. The research provides valuable insights for academic institutions to better cater to the learning needs of their students and foster a supportive and effective tutoring environment.
Walking with the Invisible: How TESOL and Communities of Practice can create change across the California Community College System
In his dissertation titled “Walking with the Invisible: How TESOL and Communities of Practice can create change across the California Community College System” (2017), Dr. Mark Manasse delves into the transformative power of TESOL (Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages) and Communities of Practice in the context of the California Community College System. Through comprehensive research and analysis, he highlights how these elements can drive positive change and create impactful learning environments for diverse student populations. The dissertation underscores the significance of collaborative learning spaces and inclusive practices in fostering student success and educational excellence within the community college system.
The Impact of TESOL Across the Curriculum
In “The Impact of TESOL Across the Curriculum,” published in Dialogue (2016) by the San Diego Area Writing Project, Dr. Mark Manasse explores the profound influence of TESOL (Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages) principles on various academic disciplines. Through insightful analysis and practical examples, he demonstrates how incorporating TESOL strategies can enhance communication and learning outcomes for students across different subject areas. The article emphasizes the importance of fostering linguistic diversity and cultural understanding within educational settings to create a more inclusive and effective learning environment.
Mentor Text Squared: Helping Students Explore Voice through Readings that Promote Critical Consciousness
In “Mentor Text Squared: Helping Students Explore Voice through Readings that Promote Critical Consciousness,” featured in the CATESOL Journal (2015), Dr. Mark Manasse presents an innovative approach to using mentor texts in the classroom. By incorporating readings that encourage critical consciousness, students can explore their own voices and perspectives, leading to deeper engagement with the subject matter and heightened critical thinking skills. This teaching method fosters a dynamic learning environment that empowers students to develop their unique voices while cultivating a greater understanding of social issues and diverse perspectives.
Grading Grading
In “Grading Grading,” published in California English (2014), Dr. Mark Manasse addresses the complexities and challenges associated with grading practices in the educational setting. He delves into the nuances of grading systems, exploring how they can impact student motivation, learning outcomes, and overall educational experiences. Through thoughtful analysis and practical insights, the article offers educators valuable perspectives on rethinking and improving grading methods to enhance student engagement and academic growth.
