Ruth Goodman, Academic Coach

What I Provide

I have been involved in the educational arena for over 30 years as a teacher, consultant, writer, tutor and academic coach. I have extensive experience working with high school and post-secondary school students who have ADD/ADHD and learning disabilities as well as gifted students who need to improve their executive functioning skills and study strategies. My coaching services are especially helpful for students studying via online courses. I provide a customized program that not only addresses the students’ individual learning needs, but also supports the growth of their self-esteem, confidence and motivation. My services, in particular, help those students making the transition to the next stage of education.

An underlying goal of academic coaching is to help students gain a greater awareness of their competencies in order to achieve their desired learning outcomes. Students are encouraged to take risks and challenge themselves, reflect and conduct ongoing self-evaluation and take responsibility for their goals. My aim is to facilitate the building of these capacities so that students acquire the attitude, skills and knowledge that will better equip them for success in scholastic as well as vocational or personal endeavours.

Who I Coach

• Students from Grade 9 through college and university years:
  • with learning exceptionalities, including ADD/ADHD, Learning Disabilities and Giftedness
  • who face learning barriers due to test anxiety, anxiety or depression
  • who are in transition to high school and post-secondary school
  • who have difficulty balancing school and other commitments
  • who wish to improve their academic performance
  • who are taking online, intersession and summer school courses

Coaching Program: Online Sessions

• Focused on executive functioning skills, learning strategies and work habits, including:
  • increasing awareness of learning strengths and challenges
  • addressing procrastination, follow through and assignment completion
  • organization, time management, planning and prioritizing
  • problem-solving, decision making, goal setting and self-advocacy
  • preparing schedules and developing study strategies for tests and exams
  • assisting with note taking, reading strategies and research skills
  • supporting the essay writing process from brainstorming to editing to proofreading
• Consulting on course selection and academic accommodations
• Reviewing psycho-educational reports, IEPs and report cards

Additional Services

• Assistance with essay writing skills including organization and coherence, development of ideas and analysis, editing and proofreading
• Assistance with preparation of personal statements for university programs