Major Tutors Airmen in Math
(December 3, 2010) |
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SOUTHWEST ASIA, Nov. 29, 2010 – Few things are more
frustrating in academics than struggling to find an answer
or to understand a theory. Though the journey can be
intimidating for students as they work through a problem,
the struggle becomes worthwhile when they finally find the
answer. |
Air Force Maj. Jim Dorn tutors airmen in math during weekly sessions at an air
base in Southwest Asia. Dorn is the 380th Expeditionary Maintenance Squadron
commander. |
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Through weekly tutoring
sessions in algebra, Air Force Maj. Jim Dorn,
the 380th Expeditionary Maintenance Squadron
commander, helps deployed airmen at an air base
here turn their academic struggles into success.
"I find it extremely satisfying to see the light
bulb go on for somebody," he said. "When they
finally get something that they have been
struggling with, you can tell by the facial
expressions how happy it makes them."
Dorn said he holds the tutoring sessions because
of a promise he made to a former squadron
superintendent who helped him enter the Air
Force's “Bootstrap” program to become an
officer.
"I promised to help people get their degrees any
time I had the opportunity," Dorn said. "I |
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did the same thing when I was stationed here in 2006. I tutored six people who
were trying to [complete] an algebra course, and all six of them passed." |
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Air Force Master Sgt. Scott Neu, the 380th Expeditionary Logistics
Squadron vehicle operations superintendent and one of the airmen Dorn is
tutoring, said the major's assistance has been integral to his
completing the course work.
"If it wasn't for Major Dorn, I wouldn't be passing my class right now,"
Neu said. "It's been a long time since I have been in school. I have
been one class short of a Community College of the Air Force degree for
eight years, and it has been a math class that I have put off."
Neu said the lack of a CCAF degree could prevent him from being
promoted, so the tutoring that Dorn provides is helping him to extend
his career. Dorn has a knack for presenting the material in an
interesting manner and has a good sense of humor, he added, and that
keeps the tutoring sessions fresh.
While it is great that technology allows deployed airmen to take online
courses, Dorn said, old fashioned, face-to-face instruction sometimes is
a preferable way to teach new material.
"When you are taking an online course in the desert, if you don't
understand something, e-mail is not the best way to learn something like
math," he said. "With the tutoring sessions, I can answer a question in
person when they are stuck. It just works better."
Dorn said he believes his tutoring sessions are a great example of
airmen taking care of airmen, and that he hopes other Air Force leaders
will consider doing the same thing.
"I'd like to see other officers and military members with degrees throw
their name in the hat and pitch-in as well," he said. "I think as an
officer you need to lead your airmen through their personal goals as
well as the mission goals." |
Article and photo by USAF SSgt. Jeremy Larlee
380th Air Expeditionary Wing
American Forces Press Service
Copyright 2010 |
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