BEST PRACTICES AND CREATION OF AN ONLINE TUTORING CENTER FOR ACCOUNTING, FINANCE, AND ECONOMIC DISCIPLINES

Jaclyn Felder-Strauss
Paul Franklin
Ana Machuca
Stanley Self
Tommy Offil
Bruce Kuhlman
Kaplan University
ABSTRACT
An online, business-discipline specific tutoring center must be structured to meet the
needs of a diverse user population. Best practices for a live, online, individualized tutorial service
dedicated to the accounting, finance, and economic based disciplines at a for-profit online
university may present unique challenges. In this qualitative discussion, the authors present the
experience of one online, business discipline-based tutoring center. The authors examine the
implementation and initial operation from July, 2012 through July, 2014 at Kaplan University.
Lessons learned and best practices are analyzed by the authors, as are potential advantages and
disadvantages of managing an in-house tutoring center versus using an out-sourced tutoring
service. One principal topic for discussion is the budgeting advantages and disadvantages of in-
house tutoring service. The authors consider optimal hours for operation and possible strategies
for maintaining interdisciplinary qualified tutors. The authors seek to advance the understanding
of the processes required for implementing similar tutoring center and to increase awareness of
the potential for an improved learning experience by students who utilize a business discipline
specific tutoring center.