Tutoring services are in high demand right now. Everyone from adults to kindergarten students are looking to private tutors to help them get ahead. If you want to build your business, make sure you're following these tutoring methods and techniques.
The first two tutoring methods and techniques cover your very first session. When you first meet a potential student, do a diagnosis of their skills. Many tutors create a short test so they can determine what they have mastered, what they may need to review and what they don't yet know at all. Use your student's test time to review their old worksheets, notebooks, quizzes and tests so you can get a better sense of what they know as well as their study habits, note-taking skills, learning styles and test taking ability.
Once you have assessed their skill level, share that information with your student. While pointing out weaknesses may be easier, it's important to motivate your student by showing their strengths as well. Be sure in any conversation with your student about their level or progress to always end on a high note so they feel good about what they've accomplished so far.
The third of our tutoring methods and techniques is to make a checklist. Write down the different topics the student will be learning. A list is an easy and effective way for both you and your student to see your weekly progress. It can also aid students in remembering what they studied previously. When you finish studying a topic, let the student be the one to check off their progress on the chart. Not only will they get a sense of accomplishment, they will also be motivated to start the next topic.
If you're doing child tutoring, you can take this a step further by sharing the checklist and the student's progress with the parents. With the child in the room, give positive feedback about the child's accomplishments. Even a small accomplishment is cause for celebration, so there's no need to resort to false praise to mislead a parent.
The most important of all tutoring methods and techniques is your attitude. If you believe that your student can master the material and feel good about themselves, then they will succeed. All of the educational technology, mnemonics and other strategies in the world cannot replace enthusiasm as the best instructional method. This and the other tutoring methods and techniques are the best tool for your professional development and keeping your students motivated, satisfied and ready to recommend you to their friends.
