Keeping pace with our rapidly developing world is one of the biggest challenges we face, especially in our education system.
The academic landscape has dramatically changed over the past two decades. While parents and guardians strive to support their children’s education, it can often be difficult to keep up. However, a child’s education must take priority, which is why many parents and guardians worldwide have turned to online teachers for their children.
According to the National Center for Education Statistics, approximately 27% of parents and guardians in the United States have opted for tutoring, especially 1-on-1 tutors, for their children. Their reasons vary, from improving academic performance and providing subject assistance to offering individual attention and more.
When the decision to pursue tutoring has been made, the next big question is: What kind of tutoring is best? Online tutoring or in-person tutoring?
In this article, we will discuss the differences between the two mediums.
Online Tutoring
While COVID-19 gave online tutoring a significant boost, this mode of learning has been around since the 1990s. Online tutoring platforms welcome all kinds of audiences compared to in-person tutoring. There are no limitations on age or location, and the range of study options is incredibly wide.
About 50-60% of people today prefer online tutoring for their children, and the decision has been quite fruitful. Studies indicate that students can retain 25-60% more material through online learning compared to 8-10% in a traditional classroom.
Here are some additional benefits of online tutoring:
- 1-on-1 Attention
- No Distractions
- Flexible Schedule
- Easy Access to Experts
- Personalized Study Plan
- Learn from Anywhere in the World
In-Person Tutoring
In-person tutoring, or home tutoring, is a traditional means of 1-on-1 tuition and can often help students engage well and improve their studies.
With the tutor physically present, they can closely monitor the student's progress and provide immediate assistance. Plus, having a tutor next to you can be motivating and supportive.
While the benefits of online tutoring and private tutoring can be quite similar, here are some advantages that can only be offered by private tutoring:
- Focused Environment
- Immediate Feedback
- Strong Tutor-Student Relationship
The Comparison
Despite the data in hand, in-person tutoring, especially when compared to online tutoring, faces its own challenges.
- No Flexibility in Schedule
- Limited Access to Experts
- Inflexible Location
- Travel Expenses
- Affordability
In-person tutoring is definitely effective, but current studies indicate that when it comes to moving forward and adapting to the ever-growing world, online tutoring is indeed the wisest option.