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Stanford Learning Lab and CTL FAQs

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Why is the Stanford Learning Lab closing on August 31, 2023?

Prior to the creation of the Stanford Learning Lab, another center called the Schwab Learning Center provided specialized academic support on the Stanford campus, such as tutoring and individual coaching, to support students with ADHD and learning disabilities. In summer 2021, the Charles and Helen Schwab Foundation moved the Schwab Learning Center to its new home as part of the Children’s Health Council in Palo Alto. Recognizing the need to continue to provide on-campus academic support for students with learning disabilities and ADHD, Stanford created the Stanford Learning Lab within the Vice Provost for Student Affairs. This was intended as a temporary pilot program while the university explored long-term solutions for supporting the academic needs of students with learning disabilities and ADHD. 

Will the same services be available at the Center for Teaching and Learning (CTL)?

Beginning in Autumn Quarter 2023, the Center for Teaching and Learning will offer specialized support for students with learning disabilities and ADHD. Support will include specialized academic coaching and tutoring, followed by additional programming later in the year.

How can students sign up to work with CTL?

Students should explore CTL’s Student Learning Programs website for information about how to sign up for tutoring, academic coaching, and other programs.

Do students need to have a diagnosed learning difference or ADHD to work with CTL?

Students need a formal diagnosis in order to participate in CTL’s specialized tutoring program for students with learning disabilities and ADHD. Participation in general tutoring, academic coaching, and other programs do not require a diagnosis. 

How will CTL academic support for students with learning differences and/or ADHD be different from the academic coaching and tutoring they already offer?

Specialized academic coaching will be delivered by an academic coach with training and expertise in the specific academic needs of students with learning differences and ADHD. Specialized tutors work collaboratively with the student and the student’s academic coach to develop a personalized tutoring plan that takes into account the student’s learning difference or ADHD.

When should students go to the Office of Accessible Education, and when should they go to the Center for Teaching and Learning?

The Office of Accessible Education (OAE) provides academic and housing accommodations based on a student’s documented disability. These might include accommodations like horns and strobes in a dorm, extra time on an exam, or a notetaker in a lecture, as well as other accommodations that help remove barriers to full participation in the life of the University. CTL services are not considered accommodations and are not legally mandated; they are supplemental resources offered to students based on availability and at the discretion of the Center. Students seeking legally mandated accommodations should visit the OAE, and students seeking supplemental academic support should visit CTL. 

Are CTL services available to undergraduate and graduate students?

CTL services are available to matriculated undergraduate and graduate students. 

What services does the Schwab Center at Children’s Health Council offer and what is the cost to Stanford students?

As of Summer 2021, the Schwab Learning Center is no longer affiliated with Stanford University. It is part of the Children’s Health Council and offers a range of services to the surrounding community, including short-term therapy, screenings for learning differences, and diagnostic evaluations for ADHD and learning disabilities, such as dyslexia. Some services may be available free of charge to Stanford students. Inquire directly with the Schwab Learning Center at CHC for the most up-to-date information about services and pricing. 

Where can staff and faculty seeking to learn more about supporting students with learning differences and ADHD find information and advice?

Staff and faculty can reach out to any of the professional staff at the Center for Teaching and Learning, who are available to consult with you on your department’s or program’s specific needs.