Problems and tensions in learning assistance services arising from different understandings of the activity

Learning advisers play multiple roles in the learning environment including confidence builder, compensator, Interpreter, motivator, tutor, counsellor, and skill provider. Yet it is apparent that these multiple roles often create tensions between stakeholders. To illustrate, while the learning advisers in the study reported here (Peach, 2003) endeavour to provide a model for students and encourage independent, self-directed learning they often end up working with students who are struggling with the academic process. This paper examines different understandings of the role of the learning adviser and focuses on problems and tensions that result when learning advisers intervene between the student and librarian in order to help students understand the relationship between library resources and the assessment task.