The Learning Cornerstone (TLC)
The Learning Cornerstone (TLC) is a special part of the NPC Developmental Services Division. TLC offers courses in developmental reading, writing, math, study skills, and English language acquisition. These classes help students prepare for college work, improve their basic education (ABE), prepare for the GED test, or improve their English language skills. TLC courses follow the Arizona Adult Education Standards. TLC also provides a variety of support services for academic success.
Courses are generally offered in self-paced, independent study format and often include computer-assisted instruction. Students attend one or more instructor-supervised labs weekly for each course. They are encouraged to attend the lab as frequently as possible for maximum progress.
Enrollment for most courses is open throughout the semester, with completion deadlines at the end of each semester.
The following programs are available:
- NEW READERS PROGRAM
Provides individualized one-on-one instruction for adult new readers. College tutors assist students, under the supervision of TLC faculty.
- BASIC EDUCATION
Provides basic literacy and math instruction to prepare students for college-level work.
- DEVELOPMENTAL LITERACY
Provides continuing literacy and math instruction for students who have completed the Basic Education program and review and practice for students who wish to enter the GED Preparation program.
- GED PREPARATION
Provides courses focused on preparing for the GED test and a pre-testing orientation, including the Official GED Practice Tests. TLC staff will analyze practice test results and make recommendations for study and/or testing strategy.
- SKILLS ENRICHMENT
Provides a refresher for mature students re-entering the educational system and additional practice for recent high school and/or GED graduates who wish to strengthen their academic skills. Scores on Placement Tests may make these courses a prerequisite to enrollment in other college courses.
- COLLEGE SUCCESS
Students develop the skills needed to succeed in college and university learning environments. Contents include pre-algebra, pre-college writing, pre-college reading, critical reading, vocabulary development and study skills. Reading and study skills courses are especially recommended for students beginning long-term degree programs; TLC 100 and TLC 101 may be used as elective credit toward some degree or certificate programs. (Check with an academic advisor.)
- ENGLISH AS A SECOND LANGUAGE
Students whose main language is not English develop basic English communication skills. NPC also offers a course to help students become naturalized U.S. citizens. The following support services are available:
- STUDENT WRITING CENTERS
Provide students with facilities, equipment and technical assistance for completing college writing assignments and resumes. Access will be granted to NPC students who complete the required lab orientation.
- LEARNING ASSISTANCE
Provides College placement and TLC placement testing. Provides tutoring and learning assistance for TLC students.
- ADULT BASIC EDUCATION (ABE)
This program provides ABE Tuition In-kind Awards to students through an Arizona Department of Education grant. This scholarship is designed to provide public access to adult basic education through TLC courses. ABE scholarships pay for tuition and fees for qualifying courses, and are offered to students meeting eligibility criteria on a first-come, first-served basis.
