Online Tutoring when Class Gets Tough

The Internet has opened up new doors for education in a multitude of ways. Not only can students interact and communicate with teachers and other students more efficiently, but there is tremendous value and opportunity for students to get additional help or enrichment at their own pace. Online tutoring modules are growing in complexity and diversity, offering both traditional and non-traditional students a chance to further and learn. They can do this easily to accommodate their needs. This customized approach to education has been possible in the past, but only after a school-based recommendation or face-to-face interaction with a specialized tutor or teacher.

Today, students can log in to various platforms online; there is much more opportunity to receive an ample amount of attention, feedback, and even track progress. Schools that once counted on even basic software training programs can go the next step and incorporate an online tutoring system. Training only takes a few weeks to get comfortable in the world of the ‘virtual classroom’ and today’s students are more skilled than ever with computers, technology, and interacting online.

Online learning provides many opportunities for students. Linking to the Internet allows for media-rich presentations, information that is valid and timely, and plenty of options for additional research. Students who may be struggling can set up virtual and ‘live’ chatrooms for their tutors. They can post questions and receive answers within 24 hours. Students can organize group discussions, review responses from other students, and come to conclusions easier with their projects or questions. The online format works well for almost all subjects. What could be easier than a Spanish tutorial with live videos, slideshows, and sound clips on pronunciation? Education that is media-enriched can greatly enhance the student’s experience.

Gifted and home schooled students can benefit the most from online tutors as they are learning and interacting at their own pace. The guided and reinforced curriculum modules available give the student many options, but still maintain a high standard beyond what can be found in the classroom. With full access to a virtual library, students can be encouraged and even required to take part in quality research and in-depth studies, beyond a ‘traditional’ textbook.

Online tutors in particular can ‘walk’ students through their courses, providing guidance and feedback whenever necessary. Because all activity is tracked, progress charts and areas that are in need of improvement are easier than ever before.
Sites such as E-tutor.com offer their services to schools, in addition to home schooling and gifted students who need reinforcements or additional help. The Online School allows a guided platform that is user-friendly and thorough. SmartThinking.com is an online writing and tutoring service that also partners with various schools and programs. The site sets up specific E-Structors to provide students with an online tutor over a period of time. In addition, Sylvan Learning Centers provides a Sylvan Online component that is a very well-defined learning platform. The module is set up for live chat, direct connections to program materials and curriculum. From skills assessments, personalized lesson plans, and ‘live’ instruction from the tutor, students can interact at correspond in effective ways.

The Internet brings diverse and enriching opportunities for students today, and the possibilities have improved considerably for gifted and home schooled students. Even students with disabilities can now obtain a well-deserved education with the help of online tutoring systems, specialized programming, and customized curriculums. Online tutors can supplement a struggling student’s education, providing support and customized attention as they learn and grow!