Guidelines for Using the CCT 450 Lab
for Computer Languages Tutoring

This document is intended to outline for students how the CCT 450 Lab tutors can help in learning a computer language such as Java, C++, Visual Basic or COBOL and in gaining a better understanding of computers. Students must sign in when using CCT 450.

For best results...

• Before coming to the lab, read programming examples and explanations in your book.
• Read the programming assignment carefully and have your questions ready before you sign up for a tutor so you can best utilize your time.
• Try modeling your program after similar programming examples in your textbook.
• When writing a complex or long program, always flowchart, write pseudocode, or otherwise plan out the program on paper before starting to write the actual code.

Tutors are available to:

• Answer any specific questions about programming instructions or syntax.
• Share with students their insights on program design and how to avoid some common problems encountered by beginning programmers.

Tutors are not available to:

• Debug students' programs but can show you how to debug. Tutors can provide general hints on debugging (error-finding and correction) strategies.
• Assist you in preparing any class assignment. Tutors are NOT to write the program for a student.

Students' responsibilities:

• Design and actual coding of assigned programs is left to the student.
• Bring the written assignment for your program, since the tutors may not have these materials available.  Make sure you bring your textbook, a printed copy of all program code you may have written, any required handouts, or additional written materials so the tutors can efficiently address your needs.
• The only way to become a proficient programmer is to actually write programs. Learning a computer language is a hands-on experience.
• Tutoring cannot substitute for going to class. Tutors cannot teach you the subject from scratch.
• When other students are waiting, tutoring is limited to 30 minutes per session and students who have not had a session are given precedence over those who have already been helped that day. Writing and debugging even a simple program can sometimes take several hours and should be done by the student and NOT the tutor.