There are both pros and cons of virtual and in-person tutoring. Especially since the pandemic, teachers, parents, and students seem more open and skilled at learning online. With that said, an overwhelming majority of students still meet with their tutors in-person, with only 26% opting for virtual sessions.

In today’s blog post, we will look at the advantages and disadvantages of each option to help you make an informed choice of what’s best for your student.

Virtual Tutoring

Convenience and Flexibility

One of the biggest advantages of virtual tutoring is its convenience. Virtual tutoring, quite often, is just easier. There is no need to travel, and, as a result, there is greater scheduling flexibility, as students can work with tutors from different locations and time zones, increasing the availability of specialized expertise.

Access to Technology

Virtual tutoring leverages digital tools such as interactive whiteboards, shared documents, and different multimedia resources to further enhance learning. Additionally, sessions can be recorded for later review, providing students with an opportunity to revisit concepts at their own pace. Physical manipulatives can still be used, but they do require additional coordination between the tutor and the student. 

Challenges

Despite its benefits, virtual tutoring is certainly not without its challenges. Technical issues, such as internet connectivity problems or device failures, can disrupt sessions and hinder learning. For many younger students, it takes several sessions before they develop confidence using and navigating a computer and Google Meet or Zoom. Certain subjects that require hands-on instruction may also be more difficult to teach effectively in a virtual setting. With that said, there are always different applications or websites that can be used to replace physical manipulatives that would be used for an in-person session.

In-Person Tutoring

Engagement and Focus

In-person tutoring sometimes allows for a higher level of engagement, as tutors can directly interact with students and pick up on non-verbal cues. This direct communication can help tutors quickly identify areas where students need additional support. Additionally, face-to-face interactions tend to lead to a deeper connection between students and tutors, which can boost student motivation and confidence.

Hands-On Learning

Subjects that involve physical materials, such as math and science experiments, are often easier to teach in person. Hands-on activities can enhance comprehension and retention, providing students with a more immersive learning experience. In-person sessions can make the teaching strategy, Concrete-Representational-Abstract, more easily implementable. Beginning with concrete, hands-on learning leads to a greater understanding as students move onto more abstract concepts.

Challenges

In-person tutoring does come with its own set of challenges. Scheduling can be more difficult, as both the tutor and student must coordinate availability and factor in commute times, including in the winter months. Many tutors charge more money for in-person sessions, though Strive Learning Solutions doesn’t charge more for in-home sessions for your student.

Which One is Best for Your Student: Virtual or In-Person Tutoring?

Consider Virtual Tutoring If:

• Your student is comfortable using technology.
• Flexible scheduling is a priority for your family.
• The subject matter can be effectively taught online.

Consider In-Person Tutoring If:

• Your student benefits from face-to-face interaction and hands-on activities.
• Logistical challenges like travel and scheduling are not a concern.
• The subject requires physical materials or a highly interactive approach.

Many of our students pick a third option: hybrid. With a hybrid tutoring set up, students and their tutors sometimes meet in-person and other times meet virtually. A hybrid set up tends to lead to the best of both worlds.

Conclusion

There are pros and cons of virtual and in-person tutoring. Virtual tutoring offers flexibility, cost savings, and technological tools, while in-person tutoring provides direct engagement, hands-on learning, and stronger personal connections. 

Ultimately, the best choice depends on the student’s learning style, subject matter, and logistical considerations. Regardless of which model you choose, students are still able to make great academic progress, whether they are working on executive functioning, reading comprehension, or dyslexia support.

Book your free consultation or inquire today to make a plan that’ll best suit your student. Strive Learning Solutions meets with students all across the Denver Metro. Our goal is to make tutoring as easy and seamless as possible. We work with students wherever is most convenient for them. This includes in their homes, at local libraries or cafes, or meeting virtually.

Mention this blog, and you’ll receive your first two sessions free!