In-person vs. Online Tutoring: What’s the Deal?

Until recently, many of us have never had to consider online tutoring because in-person tutoring has been our only option. Due to COVID-19 however, we’ve seen a significant rise in Online Education, which begs the question: What’s the deal?

If Online Learning seems daunting for you and your child - and trust me, you’re not alone - let’s slow down! Before signing up for the first service on the internet, let’s take a look at the benefits of both options so you can make the most informed decision.

Benefits of Tutoring

Tutoring is a great option for students of every level. There’s a misconception that only struggling students should be tutored, but that’s just not the case.

Tutors can help to build foundational knowledge, but they can also provide a challenge if a student feels bored or disengaged in school. One-on-one tutoring allows for uninterrupted time, personalised learning plans, and follow through with goals. And of course, students can grow their confidence from as early as session one!

Benefits of In-Person Tutoring

1.   Best for Face-to-Face

Face-to-face instruction is the most traditional style of teaching, and simply means that materials are taught live and in-person. Face-to-face learning allows for real interaction, and better facilitates a bond between the teacher and student. If your child is especially social and needs personal connection, in-person tutoring may be the best choice.

2.   Easier to Facilitate Hands-on Learning

Is your child a kinesthetic or tactile learner? Do they learn best by trying and doing, rather than simply listening or looking? These learners often need to be kept moving, enjoy working with their hands, and struggle with confined spaces. If so, face-to-face tutoring may be for them.

3.   Conducive for Active Students

Notice if your child is especially active, struggles to remain focused for long periods of time, or needs constant breaks. Having the freedom to move around a classroom is a major benefit to in-person tutoring. Some students learn best when they can move their bodies, stretch, take a walk, or switch between standing and sitting at a desk. It may be challenging for these students to sit at a desk for a regimented amount of time.

Benefits of Online Tutoring

1.   Flexibility

Online tutoring is by far the most flexible option, because you decide the when and the where! All your child needs is a stable internet connection, a computer, and a quiet place to work. Students can study from the comfort of home (rather than staying at school or travelling across town), you can book early morning or late night sessions, and can easily reschedule if necessary.

2.   Cost Effective

Say goodbye to transportation costs and expensive text books! By not needing to travel for tutoring sessions, you’ll save time and money. Plus, all resources will have to be electronic. E-books are significantly cheaper than hard-copy books these days, so going paperless will save you money. It also allows for virtual annotations that can be downloaded and printed if needed.

3.   Finding the Perfect Tutor

Online tutoring is a growing industry, with more and more qualified teachers moving into this field every day. Rather than being limited to tutors in your local area that match your availability, you can find a tutor based on merit instead! Maybe your child needs help in an unusual area of study, needs expertise with a certain novel, or specialized exam prep. Whatever the reason, it’s more likely you’ll be able to find someone online who is both qualified and experienced. Plus, you’ll have the ability to price shop before committing.

4.   Practice with Technology

Students will gain crucial tech and communication skills. Many tutoring services use a variety of platforms to conduct sessions, such as Zoom, Microsoft Teams, Google Meet, or even specialised virtual classrooms. These facilitate dynamic multimodal learning that stays up-to-date on current technologies, and advances tech literacy. Plus, it’s convenient to access materials post-session, and complete homework online. Students will also practice trouble-shooting when tech issues arise.

5.   One-on-one or Group Sessions

There are more options online, so you’ll have the freedom to book in for one-on-one and/or group sessions with other students. Perhaps your student needs focused and personalised help with English, but simply general help with math? Many kids are missing social interaction these days, so group sessions are a great option to build teamwork and meet others around the world.

Takeaway

Deciding between in-person and online tutoring can be a tricky decision, especially because online tutoring is a fairly new teaching method. Consider the cost of both options. Online tutoring requires a personal computer, but in-person tutoring often requires transportation and supply costs.

Next, talk with your child so you can make a decision together. Consider their learning style, previous experiences in school, and any anxieties they may have. Acknowledge and honor their feelings, because as we all know, new things can be scary!

Whether you go with in-person or online-tutoring (or a combination), trust that the benefits will outweigh the cons. Tutoring is proven to increase marks, ability, and overall confidence. Sounds like it’s at least worth a try, right?

- Written by Chandler (one of our amazing online tutors who helps students from all over Australia)