Online tutoring has become a popular way for students to build the skills and confidence they need to succeed in school. While it is not a substitute for a face-to-face education, in the right hands it can be incredibly effective and a valuable addition to any learning plan. It also provides access to specialized instruction for learners who may need a boost in specific subjects or skills. Whether your child needs help with summer reading, an after-school homework practice session, or a shoring up of their algebra skills, it’s easy to find the perfect online tutor.
Most online tutoring services use video conference tools like Skype, Zoom or Google Hangouts to connect with their students. This allows them to see and hear their student, and some use interactive white board software that makes it easy for both student and teacher to share presentations, websites or documents. The best online tutors are highly specialised in their subject and have a teaching qualification or equivalent experience. If you’re in a hurry, sites like Chegg and TutorMe have drop-in tutors available, while for a longer term commitment you’ll want to choose a site with higher hiring standards such as Skooli or Mindlaunch.
The large companies like Pearson’s Smarthinking and Chegg offer reasonably-priced online tutoring, though their teachers tend to have lower educational qualifications than the independent online options. Independent online tutors typically have higher levels of education, with most having a degree or more. They also have more flexibility in scheduling and can work around your busy schedule. online tutoring