Aug 21, 2019
Studies have shown that the benefits of virtual tutoring sessions are on par with those of in-person sessions. Students still get one-on-one attention and a structured session, but without the logistics and hassle of transportation.
Here are 4 reasons online tutoring might be right for you.
1. More tutors to choose from
The internet opens you up to a tutoring community beyond the area where you live. You can find tutors with unique specialties, and tutors from other school districts or states. This broader tutor base means you and your child have more options to choose from and can find the tutor that’s the perfect match for your needs.
2. No transportation needed
Online tutoring eliminates the hassle of commuting across town to in-person sessions. That means less logistics to coordinate for you, and it gives your child more time in the day. The ease of meeting might even let you schedule multiple sessions in a week if your child is after faster results.
3. Learning in the comfort of home
Many students feel more at ease in their own environment, and being at home lets them customize the space to be just right for learning. A quiet corner of the house where they can keep resources and school supplies organized might be an easier place to get into learning mode than a local library or coffee shop.
4. The internet’s a familiar entity now
Parents know this, but kids today are really good at the internet. Computers are familiar, and they’re used to using them for fun and at school. Online learning tools won’t be new to them, and so shifting to working with a tutor online will feel more natural than it might have to students a generation ago.
So how can you make sure an online tutoring session is as effective as it can be?
Test your technology. Make sure the audio and video conferencing software is working before the session starts so no time’s wasted on technical issues.
Remove distractions. Close other windows and webpages, and turn off any messenger tools or desktop apps that send notifications. Make sure the area where the computer is set up is clear of miscellaneous items or school supplies not related to the tutoring session.
Make it (inter)personal. Even though the session’s happening online, it’s still one individual working with another. Students should behave appropriately, making eye contact with the tutor, giving them their undivided attention, and treating them with respect.
Establish clear goals. As with any tutoring relationship, enter into it with a tangible, measurable aim, whether that’s raising a grade by a full letter or acing an upcoming test.
Stay engaged. While you won’t have the quick moments of interaction with an in-person tutor that you might during pick-up and drop-off, keep lines of communication open. Ask them how you can do your part, hold your child accountable for any homework or studying, and contribute to their success.
Think that online tutoring might be right for your child? With Clark Grow, you can find the perfect educator to meet their needs.
