June 24, 2022

How to Choose Between In-Person vs. Online Tutoring?

The last few years have forced us to shift to internet-based platforms because of restrictions with face-to-face options. Now, with pandemic restrictions being relaxed, both are at your disposal! But, which one is is the perfect fit for you?

Internet-based and traditional tutoring are both excellent learning opportunities; neither a lesser option, but there are distinct advantages. Here's a guide to the strengths and weaknesses of each of these options to help you select the best option for you or your child!

How Does Online Tutoring Work?

Online tutoring services are comprised of high-quality lessons through web platforms, such as Zoom, Skype, or Microsoft Teams, where the learner and the teacher engage in a real-time discussion online to guide you with homework, teach skills, or answer queries.

The internet has a lot of applications that can be leveraged as a learning center to strengthen academic skills with the students. Great tutors will take leverage advanced technology to give students classes which are more dynamic.

Online Tutoring Benefits

Personalized Schedule

Do you have a busy schedule? Then online lessons are made for you. Without travel times required, you are a call away from an online tutoring session.

Convenience

If you’re managing high school or college work, extracurricular activities, or commuting challenges, then you are lucky. Private tutoring is arranged programmed according to your availability. An online session can be prepared as soon as you speak with the tutor.

More Economical

Gas prices are through the roof! You and your teacher save time and money by eliminating travel times. This is one reason why online tutoring can be cheaper.

Furthermore, if the teacher works entirely online, they may not have the overhead expenses of a space rental and affiliated costs for running a tutoring center.

Online Tutoring Cons

May Not Be Optimal for Hands-On Work

A great tutor will consistently make every effort to apply teaching methods that facilitate your understanding of their lessons. With screen sharing and other improved characteristics, a lot can be accomplished through an internet connection.

Unfortunately, this doesn’t work for every learner. One disadvantage of virtual vs. traditional tutoring is sometimes the absence of interaction and the opportunity to work together on a project in the same space. Some lessons are just better explained in a room.

May Be Difficult to Focus

As widely used as they have become, webcams don’t show all the indications that body language can convey. You and your teacher can take advantage of that rapport built in tutoring sessions. If you struggle to focus during lectures or online sessions, your learning style is perhaps best suited for in-person tutoring.

How Does Traditional Tutoring Work?

Traditional tutoring is just what you’d think. A seasoned tutor schedules a private tutoring session with you and provides support with schoolwork.

1:1 sessions are excellent for application of different teaching methods. They are perfect for people with retention problems. With regards to homework help, nothing is comparable, as you can see body language, which is essential in learning.

Traditional Tutoring Pros

Face-to-Face Is Sometimes More Engaging

Engaging with your tutor face-to-face can help you feel more at ease and accountable. Becoming accustomed to their quirks, methods, and body language will build confidence about asking questions.

Easier to Read Body Language

Alternatively, the teacher can get to understand you better and create lessons matched to your interests. This can offer a high-quality learning experience that will keep you engaged throughout.

Traditional Tutoring Disadvantages

Traveling Time

Among the primary benefits of online tutoring is conducting a class from anywhere, reducing commute times significantly. This is essential if you are a busy person with a very tight schedule or live in an locality with heavy traffic. The hassle of commuting and long travel times can be challenges for traditional tutoring.

Possibly Expensive

You must add travel time expenses to your budget. While in-person private tutoring sessions provide the more optimal experience, it can also be more expensive than online lessons depending on the tutoring service.

Additionally, traditional tutoring may leverage costly books and materials to improve the learning experience. On the other hand, an online session may be less expensive. Again, this depends on the tutoring service.

Grade Potential Offers Both Virtual & Traditional Tutoring

A great thing regarding our tutoring services is that we have choices. Both methods are accessible to you. Both options have advantages and disadvantages, and the option that benefits your learning style is the best option for you.

Grade Potential provides high-quality curriculum irrespective of the option you choose. If you have additional questions about online vs. traditional tutoring, reach out, and we'll discuss what might suit you best.