Is online tutoring effective

Is Online Tutoring Effective? by Lucy Spencer

As a parent, if you have had time to breathe between home schooling, working from home and simply processing the unprecedented changes of the last 12 months, you may have wondered about the effectiveness of online tutoring. Like any online experience, the answer depends on many factors, particularly the facilitator, the goal and the environment. The Tutors’ Association, the only professional body for tutoring and the wider supplementary education sector in the UK, would answer with a ‘yes’ to this question, as engaging online lessons are delivered daily by its members. However, it should be highlighted that the initial transition for any student or tutor to online teaching can be rocky and so careful attention should be given to the reaction of the student to the sessions. Clear communication is essential.

What are the Benefits of Online Tutoring?

For tutors and teachers, the possibilities for recording and re-using lessons opens many opportunities. A simple click of button can record an input, which can be delivered as a short video file for their students’ revision, after the lesson has been completed. Absent students can also use these recordings to catch up on lessons missed. These benefits are obviously passed on to students. For students, online tutoring means accessing the right tutor and removing the postcode lottery. It’s also well documented that an additional benefit of online tutoring is that students do not feel the social pressures of in person 1:1 tutoring, which can feel intimidating to certain people. Quality online educators can build a rapport quickly and cover the same ground that it would in person.

Top tips for Parents When Working with an Online Tutor

Firstly, is the tutor or agency a member of the Tutors’ Association? This will allow you to feel confident that they have signed up to and agreed to a specific code of ethics. Secondly, always work with tutors that want to find out what motivates a student and considers how they can build an initial rapport. This is essential online, allowing the tutor to establish a supportive environment for learning to be built upon. Finally, always ask about the engagement strategies that will be utilised in the sessions. Which platform will be used? Just sharing a static PowerPoint and calling via Skype is no longer acceptable, as there are so many interactive strategies that online educators can employ.

Choosing an Online Tutor

When looking at engaging an online tutor, did you know that you can search for a tutor's name on The Tutors' Association's database of members? This tool will allow you to see if the tutor you wish to hire is a current member, providing reassurance that your child will be receiving support from a safe and qualified person. The Tutors' Association stipulates that all members hold an up-to-date DBS certificate and, this year, is moving towards all members holding an enhanced DBS. This highest level of disclosure is required for those positions that can involve caring for, training, supervising or being in sole charge of children or vulnerable adults. Tutors don't have to be qualified teachers, as many have a wealth of subject specialist experience but do seek personal recommendations from friends or by searching on local parent groups and review sites. In addition, always be guided by your child's response to sessions. A great online tutor will build a rapport quickly and provide you with actionable strategies to boost confidence and attainment. For more information, visit www.thetutorsassociation.org.uk