Regardless of education level, in many cases the student teacher ratio is unfavorable – and more parents and students are using tutors to supplement their education. Decreasing schedule flexibility, tighter household budgets and the increased presence of the internet in daily life are leading people to consider online tutoring as an educational supplement.
Why Online Tutoring?
The term “tutor” is typically associated with traditional tutoring sessions, where learning takes place face to face. However, the internet has created the option and availability of online tutoring. Thousands of internet learning options are available – but online tutoring has distinct advantages and disadvantages
Advantages of Internet Tutoring Services
- Cost Benefit – Typically online learning and tutoring is less expensive than traditional methods. Also, gas is eliminated as an additional expense because travel is not required.
- Time Benefit – Time is a scarce and valuable asset. Using the internet as a way to supplement learning can cut travel time and takes advantage of small gaps in free time.
- Supplemental Materials – Websites offering tutoring usually offer additional learning materials such as video lessons, interactive games, online and printable learning tools and practice testing.
Disadvantages of Online Learning and Tutoring Sessions
- Requires a computer and reliable internet connection – Depending on your location and budget, having a computer and internet connection may be a part of normal living. If access to either of these items is limited, look into using the local library to gain access to online learning materials.
- Requires basic computer skills – Most children understand basic computer skills required for online learning due to their exposure to computers in their personal and educational environment. Depending on the situation, adults may need some assistance to learn installation of messaging programs, flash players for videos and downloading learning tools.
- Different learning environment – Some adults and children will not learn easily from online tutoring because it does not cater to their personal learning style. In these cases, traditional tutoring is a better option as a learning supplement.
Finding an Online Tutor
Using online tutoring as a learning option may be an easy decision, but finding the best online mentor can be a challenging process. However, there are several steps that can be followed to make the process easier.
- Choose a reputable tutoring website – Searches for terms such as “online tutoring websites” can return thousands of results. Review and select several websites and evaluate their credibility through additional online searches, BBB (Better Business Bureau) evaluations and reviews. Reputable websites will require online tutors to meet specific educational requirements, certifications, qualifications and references.
- Communication – Actively communicate with the tutoring website, potential mentor and given references through email or phone conversations. Ensure all questions are answered before the online tutor is hired.
- Evaluate – After the first online tutoring session evaluate the advantages, disadvantages, likes and dislikes. If the learning session was for a child observe their behavior during the lessons and ask their opinion. After a through review, decide if the same tutor, different tutor or switching to traditional sessions are the best option.
Tutoring as an Educational Supplement
Using an online tutor instead of a traditional mentoring is a personal decision based on individual needs and learning methods. The internet provides a unique set of advantages, disadvantages and obstacles when selecting an instructor. Regardless of the system selected, using a tutor is an excellent way to learn, reinforce and supplement education.
 |
