How to Choose a Good Online Tutor
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If we’ve learned anything in recent years, it’s that the power of modern technology makes it easy to connect with people anytime, anywhere. This is especially true in the field of education. While nothing can replace the importance of classroom learning, online tutoring sessions are becoming increasingly popular as a way to enhance learning.
When implemented correctly, online learning can be an effective tool to help your child catch up on their studies or advance beyond their grade level. Critical to successful online tutoring is choosing the right tutor who connects with your child and their learning style.
Here are some tips to help you find an online tutor who can support your child's success and enrich their learning experience.
Understanding the Role of a Tutor
Private tutors have many of the same responsibilities as classroom teachers, but on a much smaller scale. They are experts in their subject matter, such as math or physics, and use their passion and expertise to engage their students, making sure they understand the material. They also require patience, sensitivity, and care to establish a strong bond with their students.
Online tutors all have their own techniques and methodologies that work for them, but what’s really important is that they listen to their students and adapt to their needs. Not every learning approach works for every child, so tutors must adapt their lesson plans and techniques to enable the student to truly connect with and grasp the material.
Identifying Your Educational Needs
When you hire an online tutor, identify the key areas where your child needs help. Are they having difficulties in just one subject? Or do they need to brush up on several different skills? Knowing exactly what you need can help you narrow down your search quicker.
If you’re looking for an online math tutor, for example, you can start searching for platforms whose tutors specialize in this field. The same goes for in-person tutoring or any other subject field. Many tutoring platforms feature tutors across all subjects, but some are more specialized and offer their customers a selection of qualified tutors who are experts in just a few specific fields.
Evaluating Potential Tutors
Once you’ve shortlisted some candidates who look like they fit your needs, it’s time to start the interview process. Whether you go through an online tutoring platform or find an independent tutor, there are some questions you can ask to get a better feel for their personality, teaching style, and methodology:
- How long have you been a tutor, and what are your specialties?
- What is your tutoring style and methodology?
- How do you measure student progress?
- What is your availability and preferred working environment?
During this process, you can build rapport with the potential tutors to see how you and your child mesh with their personality. Your child will be spending time with this person, so you want to make sure you find someone who matches their energy and style.
Also, be sure to clearly state your child’s needs and learning goals from the outset. This will help both you and the tutoring candidate know if they are the right fit for your child’s needs. Ask them to give examples of similar cases they have taught before, regarding your child’s needs, age, and style.
Assessing Tutor Qualifications
Part of what makes an effective tutor so valuable is their knowledge and expertise. Teachers, tutors, and academics spend a considerable amount of time ensuring they’re up-to-date on the latest methodologies and advancements in their specific subject and the field of education as a whole.
Some tutors can be skilled in several subjects, which can be beneficial for students who need to develop skills in multiple areas. However, you’ll want to find a qualified expert if your child needs help with just one particular subject.
Checking Teaching Expertise & Verifying Professional Credentials
As you vet candidates, consider their education, training, and qualifications. Tutors can claim to be experts, but in this instance, you want to see some proof that they can back it up. This includes any degrees, certificates, or credentials they hold, both in their subject area and in their role as a tutor.
If your child is looking to train for something specific, like a standardized test or entrance exam, ask the tutor about not only their approach but also about their knowledge of the test, syllabus, and any recent updates to the test’s format.
Reviewing Tutor's Track Record
One interesting thing you’ll find when you go the online tutoring route is that many platforms have testimonials or reviews from real students. These are intended to help parents determine if a tutor is right for them, not just based on what the tutor or the platform claims, but based on feedback from real people who offer honest opinions.
Reading Past Student Feedback
As you browse reviews, look for some key takeaways. Did the tutor help the student effectively reach their learning goals? Did they boost student engagement and help spark their enthusiasm for learning?
Some of this information may be easier to find than others, but many platforms let you view feedback and ratings from past students, giving you peace of mind that the tutor is both effective and qualified.
Making Final Decisions
Finding an online tutor is a process, but it doesn’t have to be difficult if you go into it already having an idea of how to look for one and what makes a good tutor. A good tutor should have a personality and style that’s compatible with your child’s, as well as the experience and credentials to back them up. Factors such as price and availability are also important considerations.
Alexander Tutoring’s team of expert math and physics tutors checks all of the boxes when it comes to online tutors. Our passionate educators are specialists in their fields who genuinely enjoy what they do and help each child meet their learning goals, whatever they may be.
Reach out to us today to learn more and claim your risk-free trial. Within your child’s first lesson, you’ll come to see why so many parents rely on us for helping their kids get a boost in math and physics!
