By: Onyedikachi Nnenna Onah
hello edu, LLC
Many people say that your time as a student is the happiest period of your life. However, a student's life is only sometimes as fun and stress-free as we think. Students face many issues ranging from temporary glitches to chronic lack of motivation, time management, personal and professional relationships, and low productivity. Besides academics, many students struggle with finding the direction to take in their future careers. Regardless of a student's issue, getting extra help in the form of tutoring can go a long way in putting them back on track and excelling in their academic journey. But what exactly does "tutoring" mean?
In his guidebook, The Master Tutor, Ross MacDonald refers to tutoring as "an act which facilitates or provides a structure for another's learning." Tutoring offers a systematic, structured learning experience in a more individualized way. Tutoring is about helping students reach their full potential and become confident in themselves to the point where they do not necessarily need that help anymore. Tutoring is one of the oldest teaching methods and one of the few that have retained credibility to date. Today, students at all levels receive tutoring to help them to master reading, math, chemistry, and physics. A student can also get a tutor to prepare them for crucial tests such as the SAT, CAT, or GRE.
There are many reasons why students and their parents still seek tutoring, and I will discuss the top five reasons.
Focus on a personalized learning approach.
The significant difference between teaching and tutoring is the individual attention each tutee gets, unlike in a standard classroom where the teacher uses the teaching method that fits the majority. There are four main learning styles: Visual, Auditory, Kinesthetic, and Reading/Writing. Each student has one or more dominant types, which will enhance their learning if followed. Tutors customize the learning experience to ensure each student learns effectively in the style(s) that works best for them.
Improved academic performance
A study by the San Bernadino Valley College has shown that eight-out-of-ten students who receive tutoring get better grades. Tutors work on specific problem areas depending on the student's needs. Tutoring will also help the student determine the best approach to a particular subject. For instance, you cannot study Mathematics the same way you would learn English and other language-based subjects. This structured learning approach improves students' understanding of the subject and grades.
Better attitude towards school and learning
Sometimes, students get frustrated and overwhelmed when they struggle with understanding a particular subject or topic. Looking at their pile of homework, they might start losing motivation as they just want to get through each submission. A negative mindset like "this is too hard" or "everyone is smarter than me" can affect a student's performance. With the support of a dedicated tutor, the demands of schoolwork will feel less intimidating. Tutors can give students the gentle push they need to meet deadlines, develop good time management skills, and challenge themselves to excel. Most importantly, these good habits that students form while being tutored can last them throughout their student life and into the workplace.
Boosts confidence and self-esteem
Too much emphasis is put on "natural ability," and while there are born geniuses, the real issue is always self-confidence. A student who is unsuccessful in the classroom will experience a decline in their self-esteem. They may feel "dumb" and wonder why everyone else understands what's happening except them. Classroom settings can be stressful and overwhelming, and they may be reticent to participate in class discussions out of fear of making mistakes or sounding "stupid." A private tutor can work with the child to identify the gaps in understanding, help fill them and restore their confidence in the subject and themselves. When students get the help they need, they will begin to see their potential and won't want to give up because someone believes in them.
Encourages independence and responsibility
Tutoring is a great way to encourage self-motivated learning because it gives them a chance to seek help on their terms. This can lead to a lifelong love of learning and a desire to continue growing and expanding their knowledge. A tutor can help students understand how they learn and teach them how to structure the learning environment to best meet their academic needs. When students see their personal growth, they will begin to take ownership of their studies. This type of intrinsic motivation will yield much academic success and long-term effects.
The benefits of tutoring cannot be over-emphasized. It fosters a student's academic, personal, mental, social, and professional development. Contact Amanda Sinnott and the team at hello edu, LLC at helloedu.org if you or your family member wants to benefit from this gem. With over a decade of experience and a track record of success, we'll help you overcome any hurdle that may be in the way of your excellence.
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