Tutoring can be physical or virtual. Virtual or online tutoring is developing at a fast pace given the advent of technological advances. Furthermore, the increase in online tutor jobs (Singapore) have been fuelled by the current global pandemic which encourages remote learning.
While transitioning from physical classrooms to virtual screens may seem daunting initially, it can be effectively overcome through the tips which I am about to share!
PREPARE IN ADVANCE
Tutoring online may sound simple. Tutors just have to turn on the computer and speak. While it sounds easy, there is much preparation needed to do before an online class. Sourcing for a good and convenient platform, sending online materials to students, and finding a conducive study/work area to conduct lessons are just some of the considerations.Tutors may be expected to run into technological problems during online tutoring. Hence, tutors should be well prepared with a backup plan in the event of a failure.
BE ATTENTIVE TO YOUR STUDENT’S LEARNING STYLE
When you are teaching online, it is crucial that you are fully dedicated to your students. Knowing your student’s learning style is important to helping them ace that Physics or Chemistry midterm or final exam. Different individuals have varying learning styles such as kinaesthetic, visual or auditory. Showing a visual learner concise charts and diagrams of a concept for example can greatly help them build a good foundation. I urge you to be creative and engage tools that would cater most effectively to your student’s learning style.
MAKE THE LESSON PERSONAL AND INTERACTIVE
Use a mixture of both synchronous and asynchronous learning methods. Synchronous learning experiences employ face to face interaction via virtual chat box or video camera and offer direct social engagement and feedback.
On the contrary, asynchronous learning encourages students to learn at their own pace as tutors will upload additional information or resources for students to view at their own time.Asynchronous learning henceforth provides flexible opportunities for interaction and communication.
USE EXPRESSIVE BODY LANGUAGE
Body language plays a significant role in getting your students engaged. Showing that you are invested in teaching easily engages your students. Maintaining eye contact and sitting up right are examples of expressive body languages which are crucial for online tutoring. Students will be more focused throughout the lesson as well.
FLEXIBLE TIME SCHEDULE
Online tutoring is convenient in such a way that it reduces time spent travelling from one place to the other. As an online tutor, you may have students from overseas, in a different time zone from you. Hence, as a tutor you should keep as many time slots open and available as possible.
To sum up, being a tutor is a meaningful and noble career. Despite the current global pandemic and with remote learning in place, online tutoring is becoming significantly prevalent. Becoming an effective online tutor requires you to be consistent in preparing for the class, being attentive to your student’s needs, employing a mix of both synchronous and asynchronous learning and using expressive body language.
