June 24, 2022

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

The last few years have compelled us to move to web-based platforms because of limitations with face-to-face options. However, with pandemic restrictions loosening, both options are at your disposal! But, which one is is best for you?

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

How Does Online Tutoring Work?

Online tutoring services contain high-quality lessons utilizing web applications, such as Zoom, Skype, or Microsoft Teams, where the learner and the tutor establish a real-time conversation over the computer to assist with homework, explain concepts, or answer questions.

The internet has multiple applications which can be utilized as a learning center to strengthen academic skills with the students. Great tutors will take benefit from advanced features to make classes more dynamic.

Online Tutoring Pros

Adjustable Schedule

Are you worried about your busy schedule? Then online lessons are the way to go. Without travel times in your way, you are one contact away from an online tutoring session.

Convenience

If you are shuffling between high school or college work, extracurricular activities, or commuting hinderance, then you are lucky. Private tutoring is planned according to your availability. An online session can be arranged as soon as you speak with the tutor.

More Cost-Effective

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

Additionally, if the tutor works solely online, this will reduce the overhead costs of a space rental and related prices for running a tutoring center.

Online Tutoring Cons

May Not Be Perfect for Hands-On Work

A great tutor will constantly do their best to implement teaching methods that assist you in understanding their lessons. With screen sharing and other modern capabilities, a lot can be achieved with an internet connection.

Regrettably, this isn’t a fit for every student. One drawback of digital vs. in-person tutoring might be the absence of interaction and the capability to work together on a project while physically together. Some lessons are just better explained in a room.

Probably Distracting

As widely used as they are, webcams cannot view all the signs that body language can express. You and your tutor can build off of that rapport built in tutoring sessions. If you struggle to focus during school or online sessions, your learning style is perhaps best suited for in-person tutoring.

How Does Traditional Tutoring Work?

Traditional tutoring is exactly what you’d think. A professional lecturer schedules a private tutoring session with you and provides support with schoolwork.

Face-to-Face classes are great for application of different teaching methods. They are ideal for people with retention difficulties. Regarding homework help, nothing comes close, as you can see body language, which is instrumental for learning.

Traditional Tutoring Advantages

Face-to-Face Might Be More Engaging

Seeing your educater face-to-face can make you feel more relaxed and responsible. Becoming familiar with their quirks, technique, and body language will establish confidence about clarifying hard topics.

Easier to Read Body Language

On the other hand, the educator can get to know you better and curate lessons suited to your interests. This can provide a high-quality learning experience that will keep you interested throughout.

Traditional Tutoring Challenges

Traveling Time

Among the main benefits of online tutoring is leading a session from anywhere, decreasing commute times significantly. This is essential if you are a active person with a very tight schedule or live in an area with rush hour. The headache of transportation and long travel times can be disadvantages of traditional tutoring.

Likely Expensive

You must include travel time costs to your expenses. While 1:1 private tutoring sessions offer the better experience, it can also be more costly than online lessons depending on the provider.

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

Grade Potential Provides Both Virtual & Traditional Tutoring

A great thing about our tutoring services is that we have options. Both methods are available to you. Both approaches have strengths and weaknesses, and the method that benefits your learning style is the best option for you.

Grade Potential has high-quality learning paths regardless of the method you choose. If you have further questions about online vs. traditional tutoring, reach out, and we'll discuss what might suit you best.