The Learning Commons

The Skyline College Learning Commons brings together the functions of the Library and the Learning Center into a unified, technology enhanced academic support space for students in Building 5.

The Learning Center

The Learning Center (TLC) is a flexible learning environment providing academic support for students in all Skyline College courses through workshops, instructional technology, tutoring, and lab-based courses. The goal of the TLC is to offer students opportunities to learn more quickly and effectively and with greater confidence. Accordingly, the TLC provides alternative means of instruction that address students’ diverse learning preferences and styles. The TLC also offers a comprehensive program of individual and small group support for all levels of English, ESOL, reading and math, and provides tutoring in a variety of academic subject areas. The Learning Center includes the following: Writing/Reading Tutorial Lab, Math Tutorial Lab, ESOL Tutorial Lab, Science, Business & Social Science Tutorial Lab, computer use, TRIO/Student Support Services, online tutoring, and Supplemental Instruction.

Tutoring and Academic Support Workshops: Free tutoring is available to students in a variety of subjects at the Learning Center. Students must be enrolled in LSKL 803 (0 units) or LSKL 800 (0.5 or 1.0 unit) to receive tutoring. In addition, the Learning Center offers free one-hour instructional workshops for students on a variety of topics each term. All workshops are held in the Learning Center in Building 5.

Supplemental Instruction: Supplemental Instruction (SI) is a voluntary academic assistance program that utilizes peer-led group study to help students succeed in traditionally difficult courses. SI sessions are led by Skyline College students who have previously completed the course successfully and have received SI training.

Peer Mentoring: Peer Mentors help students successfully navigate college by helping them connect to resources, understand the culture of college, and become part of a community of learners who have similar interests and goals. Peer mentors work one-on-one with students to identify challenges, set goals, develop leadership and professional skills, and establish positive daily routines and habits. Peer Mentors provide a positive environment to help ease the adjustment to college life.

Tutor Training: Students who would like to become a peer tutor in the Learning Center should register for LSKL 110, Effective Tutoring and Practicum. Students completing LSKL 110 will receive course credit, earn the first step toward a CRLA Level 1 tutor certificate, and be eligible to work in The Learning Center as a tutor, if positions are available.

For more information about The Learning Center, please call (650) 738-4144 or stop by the Center in Building 5, Room 5100 (below the Library). To learn more about our in-person or online services and check on current hours of operation, please visit our website: www.skylinecollege.edu/learningcenter.

Library

Skyline College Library, which occupies the second floor of Building 5, features a book collection, access to computers, a technology loan program, as well as extensive online resources. Online resources include eBooks, films, journals, magazines, and newspapers all of which may be accessed on-campus or off-campus with the Student OneLogin credentials. Through a wide area network, students have access to the Internet, the OneSearch online catalog, and the Peninsula Library System (PLS) online catalog. The Library’s web address is www.skylinecollege.edu/library.

The Library also has six group study rooms, numerous study carrels providing privacy for individual work, and a computer lab for class research workshops. Borrowing privileges are extended to all students. Library cards are not required. Every student with a G# has a library account.

Librarians are available to provide research help via chat, email, phone, or in person.

Contact information: (650) 738-4312 (reference), (650) 738-4311 (circulation). Please check the library website for hours of operation and to access library services.

Student Drop-In Computer Lab

The Student Drop-In Computer Lab is located in the Library on the second floor of Building 5. In fall and spring semesters as well as during the summer term, it is open to students and the public: Please check the library website for hours of operation.

Students have access to 40 desktop computers running Microsoft Windows 10. The drop-in lab computers feature up-to-date software such as Microsoft Office, Adobe software, and more. Students also have access to pay-as-you-go print services. Please check with library staff on most current pricing for printing, or see the library printing information page https://guides.skylinecollege.edu/c.php?g=1214178.

Free Wi-Fi, as well as Educational Technology and basic computer help, is available during open hours.