Online or In-Person Tutoring: Different Approaches for Different Students

Dec 17, 2011 Jannelle Martel
The More You Know

Online tutoring is becoming more and more popular.  It is a great choice for most students, as it is more convenient than traditional tutoring.  Students may also use online tutoring to connect with tutors on more specialized topics who may not live close enough for in-person tutoring.  As always, the proficiency of the tutor is of the upmost importance. A 2011 study by Kopp and Associates printed in Computers & Education journal revealed that experienced e-tutors were better able to detect problems in student’s logic, intervene and suggest appropriate collaborative activities.  However, even with an expert e-tutor, online tutoring may not be the best choice for all students.  Let’s take a look at what type of students will benefit more from online and in-person tutoring.

Online Tutoring

First and foremost, a student needs to have an understanding of technology in order to successful in online tutoring.  The proper technological equipment, such as computer, microphone, tablet and high-speed internet connection are also necessary.  The student should understand how to operate this equipment as well as use the tools online classroom.  It is important that the student does not need to rely on their parents or older siblings to access online tutoring, as the goal of tutoring should be to help students gain control of their own learning processes. 

Students who are fairly proficient in school usually do the best in an online tutoring environment.  These students usually have strong study habits and problem solving skills, but require online tutoring to get help with certain questions, check their answers, or get help with editing.  Students who are in remote areas and do not have access to in-person tutors should take advantage of online tutoring as well.

In-Person Tutoring

Younger students and students with learning disabilities tend to benefit most from regular, face-to-face tutoring sessions.  These students need to develop a relationship with their tutor and may find online tutoring to be a confusing and frustrating process. The Learning Disabilities Association of America emphasizes that students with learning disabilities need a tutor who will guide them through the learning process and provide opportunities for repetition and practice in order to master skills.  This is better offered by an in-person tutor who can create a specialized plan for the student. The association also stresses that a tutor should provide interactive and hands-on learning for students with learning disabilities.  Once again, this is more conductive to face-to-face tutoring. 

I suggest in-person tutoring over online tutoring for test preparation, especially for standardized tests.  A tutor who is helping a student prepare for a test really needs to develop a relationship with the student to monitor their learning as they study for the test.  The student also needs to trust the tutor in order to feel confident that they have been well prepared for the test.  Frequent but short in-person test prep sessions tend to work best in this situation.