The Stanford Hume Center for Writing and Speaking is a vital resource for students at Stanford University, providing a comprehensive range of services and programs designed to support the development of writing and speaking skills. Located in the heart of the Stanford campus, the Hume Center is a hub of academic activity, offering one-on-one tutoring, workshops, and courses to help students improve their communication skills.
History and Mission
The Stanford Hume Center was established in 2001, with a generous gift from George Hume, a Stanford alumnus and businessman. The center’s mission is to provide students with the tools and resources they need to become effective communicators, both in writing and speaking. The Hume Center’s staff of experienced tutors and instructors work closely with students to help them develop their skills, from crafting clear and concise arguments to delivering confident and persuasive presentations.
Services and Programs
The Hume Center offers a wide range of services and programs, including one-on-one tutoring, writing groups, and speaking practice sessions. Students can work with tutors to develop their writing skills, from brainstorming and outlining to drafting and revising. The center also offers specialized services, such as help with English language support, graduate school applications, and academic writing in specific disciplines. In addition, the Hume Center provides resources and support for students with disabilities, including accommodations for students with learning disabilities and English language learners.
| Service | Description |
|---|---|
| One-on-one tutoring | Individualized support for writing and speaking skills |
| Writing groups | Peer-led groups for writing support and feedback |
| Speaking practice sessions | Opportunities to practice and receive feedback on public speaking skills |
Impact and Outcomes
The Stanford Hume Center has a profound impact on the academic success and personal development of Stanford students. By providing access to high-quality writing and speaking support, the center helps students achieve their academic goals and develop the skills they need to succeed in their chosen fields. Studies have shown that students who use the Hume Center’s services tend to perform better academically, with higher GPAs and better retention rates. Additionally, the center’s programs and services have been shown to improve students’ confidence and self-efficacy, leading to greater success and fulfillment in their academic and professional pursuits.
Research and Assessment
The Hume Center is committed to ongoing research and assessment, with a focus on evaluating the effectiveness of its programs and services. The center’s staff use a range of methods, including surveys, focus groups, and outcome assessments, to gather data and inform their practice. This research has led to the development of new programs and services, such as the center’s online writing resources and speaking practice tools. By continually assessing and improving its services, the Hume Center is able to provide the highest quality support to Stanford students.
- Surveys and focus groups to gather student feedback and assess program effectiveness
- Outcome assessments to evaluate the impact of Hume Center services on student academic performance
- Research on best practices in writing and speaking instruction, with a focus on adapting these methods to the Stanford context
What types of services does the Hume Center offer?
+The Hume Center offers a range of services, including one-on-one tutoring, writing groups, and speaking practice sessions. The center also provides specialized services, such as help with English language support, graduate school applications, and academic writing in specific disciplines.
How can I schedule an appointment with a tutor at the Hume Center?
+Students can schedule an appointment with a tutor at the Hume Center by visiting the center’s website or stopping by the front desk. The center offers online scheduling, as well as walk-in appointments, to accommodate students’ busy schedules.
What types of writing support does the Hume Center offer?
+The Hume Center offers support for all types of writing, from academic papers and essays to personal statements and creative writing. The center’s tutors are experienced writers and instructors, and can provide guidance on everything from brainstorming and outlining to drafting and revising.
