What is tutoring, exactly?
Tutoring is, quite simply, extra academic help. A tutor, like a teacher, wears many hats and must posses very specific qualities. Tutors, of course, must hold a firm grasp on subject matter. However, this is not the only important part of becoming a good tutor.
An excellent tutor is encouraging, flexible, always prepared, intuitive, empathetic, and a good communicator. He or she is a positive role model and works to develop a rapport with the child. The tutor pushes students to take control of their own learning, providing a safe environment in which children feel comfortable asking questions and trying new things. He or she constantly assesses his/her own performance and identifies ways to improve.
As your tutor, I will:
- Confer with you, the parent or guardian, as to what your goals are
- Discuss these ideas with the student and gain insight: From the child’s perspective, we will together identify challenges the student faces.
- Assess student learning styles
- Administer a pre- and post-test to track your student’s progress
- Tailor lessons to target your child’s academic goals.
- Assist in the successful completion of homework or projects.
What are the benefits of tutoring for my child?
Tutoring offers a wide range of benefits for the student. Perhaps the most common goal is quantifiable results. Parents, teachers, students and tutors strive toward the goal of academic achievement, working together toward this common end. However, there are additional benefits to tutoring:
- Improvement of student attitudes toward school and/or a particular subject area
- Increased self-esteem and self-confidence
- Guidance in developing effective study habits
- Transition toward self-directed or independent learning
- Individualized attention (which is often a rarity during school hours).
Is tutoring right for my child?
This is a question only you and your family can answer. Discuss tutoring with your child, and decide what you think together. While it is generally accepted that a tutor is positive, the ultimate goal of any tutor is to assist the student in his or her journey toward independent learning.
I have included a link to a Scholastic.com article on the pros and cons of tutoring here.