The Role of A Tutor
With the explosion of the e-learning industry, the need for tutors is everywhere, both in the private and public sectors. Online tutors in particular are becoming more important and so the role of the tutor is being looked at very closely. Basically, the skills needed by a tutor in this day and age are not so different from those ten, twenty or even thirty years ago. The only real additional skills needed are the ability to work reasonably well with computers and having a solid understanding of the internet and related online functions.
The main skill that tutors need is the ability to create a positive learning environment. For those tutoring online, it means setting things up so technical difficulties do not overwhelm students or distract them from the material being taught. It also means knowing the field that they are tutoring in very well so that they are a competent authority on the subject. While tutors do not necessarily require any kind of teaching certificate, an ability to teach is very important. They need to be able to transfer knowledge to their students in an effective manner, as being an expert in a field does not mean they will be able to help someone else be one too.
One of the trickiest things a tutor needs to master to become effective is the ability to adapt their tutoring programs to create the best fit for their students. Everyone learns at a different rate and through different methods. A tutoring approach that is the same for everyone will not produce the best results, even if that approach is a very strong one. In order to keep students happy, strong ones need to be challenged, while weaker ones need additional support. Being flexible with your delivery will produce the best results.
Tutors are not so different from teachers, in that the great ones will always be said to inspire passion for learning. Even if lesson plans are well crafted in approach and delivery and are regularly adjusted to challenge students at the right level; to not encourage your students to become more proactive in their learning will limit production levels. This passion can be created by enthusiasm, by creative approaches with lesson material, or by regularly checking with and assisting your students to show how much you care about their progress.
Being a tutor who is successful is similar to being a teacher who is loved by their students. You really need to invest the time and preparation needed to create an effective system of tutoring, make changes to that system based on student ability, encourage students to study harder and motivate them to succeed. If you can do all this, you will be a great tutor, no matter what your field or background may be.
Beth Kaminski is the co-author of Curing Your Anxiety And Panic Attacks which detailed cure panic attack cures as well as tips on the various panic disorder medications available at anxietydisordercure.com.
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| Published on January 31st, 2010 | | Posted by admin |