The Benefits of Remote Tutoring

All of us at Truly Teachers have been in the classroom since before COVID-19. While everyone's lives were turned upside-down in 2020, one silver lining of the pandemic was realizing just how impactful a remote learning approach can be - if done correctly!

I'll never forget signing on to teach my first online lesson to my class of 31 students. At first, I thought that it would be impossible to keep my students engaged and participating in lessons. I soon realized that there were many tools and techniques that I could use to create an effective and successful learning environment through online instruction.

In recent years, remote tutoring has gained popularity as a flexible and effective educational solution. With the rise of online platforms and tools, students can now access personalized learning support from the comfort of their homes. I'm here to give parents a high-level understanding of why remote tutoring can be a great option and highlight meaningful findings from studies conducted by fellow academics! Let's dive in...

1. Flexibility and Convenience

One of the standout features of remote tutoring is its flexibility. Students can schedule sessions at times that fit their busy lives, whether it’s after school, on weekends, or during school breaks. A survey conducted by The Chronicle of Higher Education found that 75% of students appreciated the ability to choose their tutoring times, leading to increased participation and commitment (Chronicle of Higher Education, 2021).

2. Access to a Broader Pool of Tutors

Remote tutoring eliminates geographical barriers, allowing students to connect with tutors worldwide. This access can be particularly beneficial for students seeking expertise in specialized subjects. A report from EdWeek highlights that online tutoring platforms often provide a diverse range of tutors, giving students the opportunity to find someone who aligns with their learning goals and preferences (EdWeek, 2022).

3. Personalized Learning Experience

Ok, so what happens when families have access to a broader pool of tutors? They can find experienced teachers who are the best fit for their child and truly know how to create tailored instruction that meets the individual needs of each student.

Finding the right teacher who can adapt their teaching methods and materials based on a student’s unique learning style, strengths, and challenges dramatically increases the chance of growth and measured success. According to a study published in the Journal of Educational Psychology, personalized instruction can significantly enhance student engagement and performance (Wang & Holcombe, 2010).

4. Enhanced Engagement Through Technology

Many remote tutoring sessions leverage interactive tools such as virtual whiteboards, screen sharing, and multimedia resources. These technologies can make learning more engaging and interactive. According to research from The International Society for Technology in Education, the use of technology in tutoring can foster deeper understanding and retention of material (ISTE, 2019).

5. Cost-Effectiveness

Remote tutoring can be more cost-effective compared to traditional in-person sessions. Without the need for travel or physical space, many online tutoring services can offer competitive rates. A study by Education Researcher found that online tutoring services often provide a more affordable option, often 10-20% cheaper, making academic support accessible to a wider range of students (Education Researcher, 2020).

6. Development of Self-Directed Learning Skills

Remote tutoring encourages students to take more ownership of their learning. The one-on-one environment allows tutors to foster self-directed learning skills, empowering students to set goals and manage their study time effectively. According to a report by The Learning Accelerator, this focus on independence can lead to long-term academic success (The Learning Accelerator, 2021).

Still with me? Long story short...

The benefits of remote tutoring are clear! While technology continues to evolve, remote instruction will likely become an even more integral part of education inside and outside the classroom. As I learned during my personal experience teaching remotely, embracing technology can enhance a student's learning experience and help them gain the confidence and independence needed to achieve their goals. I have witnessed many students thrive through remote instruction and develop technological skills that they will continue to use throughout their lives. My goal is to give students throughout the country access to quality remote instruction to help them succeed academically and personally.

References:

- Wang, M. T., & Holcombe, R. (2010). *Adolescents' Perceptions of School Environment, Engagement, and Academic Achievement in Middle School*. Journal of Educational Psychology.

- Chronicle of Higher Education. (2021). *The Impact of Flexibility in Tutoring on Student Engagement*.

- EdWeek. (2022). *Accessing Quality Tutoring: A Look at Online Platforms*.

- International Society for Technology in Education (ISTE). (2019). *Transforming Education with Technology*.

- Education Researcher. (2020). *Cost Analysis of Online vs. In-Person Tutoring*.

- The Learning Accelerator. (2021). *Empowering Students Through Remote Tutoring*.