Online or Face to Face Tuition?

So, you’ve made the decision that your son, daughter (or maybe even yourself) would benefit from tuition… that’s an important first step. But it’s not the only decision you have to make. You also need to decide whether online or face-to-face tuition is best for you.

Don’t worry though – choice is good! And we’re on hand to help you make the right decision for you, whatever that might be. So, let’s look at the pros and cons of online and face-to-face tuition.

Online vs Face-to-Face Tuition – the Similarities

Although the focus of this blog is to highlight the differences between the online and face-to-face options, it’s also worth remembering the ways in which the learning experiences are similar. First of all, every session will be bespoke and carefully adapted to the individual needs of the learner, whether it takes place online or in person. Similarly, there is no difference in how engaging the sessions will be – or how successful they can be in helping the learner to progress and meet their goals.

However, as everyone knows, we all learn differently and each of us have particular preferences. So, let’s take a look at the key differences between online and face-to-face learning.

Online Tuition – the Pros and Cons

One thing’s for sure, technology has totally transformed how tuition (and teaching in general) can be delivered. Lockdown forced it upon us in many ways, but the potential of online learning in the future is limitless. The truth is, we’re only just scratching the surface of the possibilities. But that’s for another day; back in the here and now, online learning simply means you can have your tuition wherever you are. Online tuition is definitely the most convenient option. If a student is nervous, they don’t have to show their face either. It’s completely up to them.

The flexibility online tuition offers is a big plus. WiFi connection permitting, a student can take their tuition literally wherever they like and wherever they happen to find themselves at the time: bedroom, home office, or by the pool or at the beach on holiday! There are various platforms out there: Skype, Zoom, Teams… if you have a favourite, that’s fine. Our tutors are more than happy to use whichever provider you are most confident with.

Of course, nothing’s perfect and online tuition certainly isn’t for everyone. Some people find it difficult to concentrate and engage with online learning. What’s more, although it’s still possible, it can be harder for a tutor to build a rapport with a student if they are only on a screen rather than sat next to them. The trust and the relationship that builds between a tutor and tutee can be instrumental in helping the learner to become more confident, so this issue is certainly something to bear in mind.

Face to Face – the Lowdown

Face-to-face tuition can be just like having the experience of a classroom (albeit on a much smaller scale!) in the comfort of your own home. It’s the most familiar style of delivery. Not only that, because of the fact it is one-to-one or small group tuition, it can be the most bespoke style of tutoring too. A friendly tutor can spend time building the confidence of the student and settling any nerves they might be feeling. It’s convenient too. The tutor can come to you, so everything can take place in the comfort of your own home. There is no travelling required.

However, if things are bit hectic at home with the kids running around and such like, having a tutor come to your home might not be ideal. Also, there might not be a suitable quiet space for sessions to take place at home either. If this is the case, online sessions could be a sensible way forward and the most obvious alternative.

Ultimately, you will probably know better than anyone which type of tutoring session would be best for your child. Don’t forget that regardless of the option you go for, you’ve still got absolute flexibility. There’s nothing to stop you from starting with face-to-face and switching to online at a later date or vice versa. You could even ‘mix and match’ sessions – it’s really up to you!

If you want to have a chat with the team to discuss your options, feel free to get in touch. We’re always on hand to answer any questions. We’ll help you to choose the right option for you!