Technology has evolved to make life more efficient academically and socially. Like technology, learning has evolved for international students, too. WT has provided technology and Smarthinking to accommodate these changes in learning.

Smarthinking is an online tutoring service that helps WT students get quick access to additional instruction outside of the classroom.

These services are available to all students but specifically help international students because of their language barriers. Yin Pool, an instructor for College Algebra, said some international students are too shy in class to speak out in front of everyone.

“My experience with International Students is they tend to be quieter, they do much better in one to one conversations,” Pool Said.

Smarthinking accommodates international students with its many features. It provides an app that can be installed to any smart phone. Students can also post questions, reserve sessions, submit a writing assignment to have it reviewed, chat live or schedule a meeting.

Pool said the program is perfect for international students.

“The language barrier makes in-class activities more difficult. I used to think, ‘Am I phrasing the question correctly?’ So you tend to hold back,” she said. “Sometimes it’s easier with Smarthinking because you can go online and just ask the questions. I didn’t have Smarthinking. For help I used to go to other international students instead of finding a tutor or going to the math lab.”

Thy Phan, a freshman international student at WT, said she enjoys talking to friends and practices English often. She said her biggest struggle in the classroom setting is listening because it is often fast paced.

“I like to talk to others but sometimes it can be difficult to listen to the professor,” she said.

Thao Doan, an international student at WT, said she greets her professors every day before walking in. However, she struggles with listening as well.

“I understand when others talk but I understand better with aids such as a CD player,” she said.

Pool said she is glad for this technology because she doesn’t get to speak to international students unless they come into her office for one-on-one assistance. She believes with Smarthinking, they are getting the help they need.