Access online tutoring whenever you need it with Smarthinking
How are you settling into your studies this trimester? If you feel you need some help with any of your units, have a look at Smarthinking.
Smarthinking is an online tutoring service for Deakin students that allows you to reach out for assistance at any time that is convenient for you – 24 hours a day, seven days a week.
Smarthinking allows you to work online in real-time – from any location, at any time of the day – with tutors specialising in a range of disciplines, including:
- science, maths and statistics
- nursing and health
- business, and
- information technology.
If you want feedback on your writing for an assignment, submit a draft of your writing and you will receive written feedback from Smarthinking within 24 hours.
You can book a session ahead of time, or ask to see a tutor ASAP (usually, you will be able to see a tutor within a few minutes). Your sessions will also be recorded, so you can review them again later.
Check out this short video about using Smarthinking at Deakin.
FAQs
How do I use Smarthinking?
Once you have accessed the Smarthinking website, you can select one of three options: Live Tutoring, Submit a Question, or Writing Feedback.
- Live Tutoring takes you to an interactive whiteboard screen, where you can work with a tutor on your question via text chat.
- If you don’t have time for an interactive session, you can choose Submit a Question to receive a response within 24 hours.
- For Writing Feedback, you will be asked to upload your assignment, along with the assignment instructions. You will receive feedback within 24 hours.
Most students find the interface easy to use and navigate but clear instructions are provided on the site itself.
Exactly what happens during a Smarthinking session?
In a live tutoring session, you will be asked to introduce yourself and to type (or upload) your questions. The tutor will then work with you on your question through text chat. You can view some sample sessions here (scroll down to the section titled ‘See what it’s like to work with us’).
For writing feedback, the tutor will provide feedback on some areas you have chosen, both in general written comments and comments on the assignment itself (provided in bold text).
How long does an average session go for?
A typical interactive session lasts between 15–20 minutes but will vary depending on your query.
How should I best prepare for a session?
Make sure you have your question ready, along with access to any instructions or assignment information, including the unit number. If you don’t, you can cancel the session at any time and come back at another time.
Can I review my session?
You can review your interactive sessions, as well as your writing feedback and question responses, at any time. This option is clearly visible on the main screen.
And remember, there’s also a wide range of other Study Support services available from Deakin throughout the academic year, including Writing Mentors and Maths Mentors. And if you would prefer some more personalised and tailored support, make an online appointment with a Language and Learning Adviser.
Visit Smarthinking now to explore the platform or book a session.