What's better, online or face-to-face tutoring?
When deciding between online and face-to-face tutoring for your child, you need to consider several factors. That said, there's no one-size-fits-all answer. The best choice depends on your child's unique needs, preferences, and circumstances. Don't be afraid to experiment and adjust as you go. Here's what you need to know about both options.
Which form of tutoring is better?
If you ask tutors and tutees, you'll find no "better" option between online and face-to-face tutoring because the ideal choice depends on a student's needs and preferences. However, both forms of tutoring have unique benefits and drawbacks, so it's important to consider both approaches before making a decision.
Online tutoring:
Since COVID-19, online tutoring has surged in the UK. Before the pandemic, stats showed that (January 2019) only 9% of students opted for online tuition; now, that figure is closer to 50% and growing yearly. Plus a randomised controlled trial on the effectiveness of an online math tutoring program targeted at secondary school students improved academic outcomes. The 8-week program significantly increased standardised test results, end-of-year math grades and the probability of passing the subject by about 30 per cent.
The pros of online tutoring are:
Convenience: Tutor sessions can be done from home, saving time on travel and being better for students with a busy schedule and parents who cannot work around tutor hours.
Access to experts: Your child can connect with specialised tutors anywhere in the country and worldwide, regardless of location.
Online tools: Interactive features like screen sharing, virtual whiteboards, and recorded sessions can enhance learning and help students get more out of their tutoring sessions beyond the hour of contact.
Safety: No need for in-person contact, which may be preferable for health or safety reasons.
Cost: The average online tuition cost is £30 per hour, a 20% savings compared to in-person lessons.
Cons of online tutoring:
Screen fatigue: Long hours online can be tiring for some younger students who aren't good at focusing.
Distractions: Some students may find it harder to focus online than in person and get distracted more easily.
Tech requirements: Online tutoring relies on a stable internet connection, screens, and devices, which may not always be available.
Personal connection: Some students may find it harder to build rapport with a tutor virtually, though a good online tutor is adept at helping to bridge this issue.
Communication: Some students struggle to articulate their struggles and are reluctant to show their work on screen.How effective is online tutoring?
Face-to-face tutoring:
Many studies have documented the positive impact of face-to-face tutoring. A meta-analysis measuring the efficacy of face-to-face tutoring found that high-quality tutoring programs improve learning outcomes across the board. It was proven that participation in such a program is linked to an approximately one-year gain in academic level for students.
The pros of face-to-face tutoring:
Personal interaction: Tutors can read body language and adjust teaching methods in real-time by watching a student perform and work more closely.
Structured environment: Students are used to working face-to-face with teachers, so they are more likely to stay focused and engaged from the start.
Build rapport: It's easier for some students to connect with and trust a tutor in person, so build rapport faster.
Models what students know: Most students are used to face-to-face teaching, so they tend to feel more comfortable and sure of how face-to-face tutoring works.
Cons of face-to-face tutoring:
Less flexible: Face-to-face tutoring requires travel and fixed scheduling, which may not suit busy students.
Fewer tutor options: You're restricted to tutors in your local area.
Higher costs: In-person tutoring can be more expensive due to travel and time commitments.How effective is face-to-face tutoring?
10 tutoring questions to ask before making a decision:
1. Does your child learn better with hands-on, in-person interaction, or are they comfortable with digital tools and screens?
2. Do they stay focused during online activities or get distracted easily?
3. Would they benefit from the personalised attention of a tutor beside them?
4. Is your child comfortable using technology for learning?
5. Are you okay with troubleshooting tech issues if they arise during online sessions?
6. Does your child need help in a subject that requires specialised tutors who may not be available locally?
7. Does the subject (e.g., math, science, language) require hands-on demonstrations or tools that are easier to provide face-to-face?
8. Does your child build stronger relationships with teachers or mentors in person?
9. Are they shy or anxious about in-person interactions, making online tutoring a better fit?
10. Can you switch between online and face-to-face tutoring if your child's needs change?
Choose online tutoring if your child is tech-savvy, has a busy schedule, or needs access to specialised tutors. It's also ideal for families who value convenience and flexibility.
Choose face-to-face tutoring if your child benefits from in-person interaction, struggles with screen-based learning, or needs a more structured environment.