Although tutoring is now widely used, its definition is often confused with other terms. However, it is different from academic coaching and homework help. Many parents are convinced of the benefits of tutoring. What is the real definition of this concept?
HOW CAN TUTORING BE DEFINED?
Tutoring is tailor-made support for a pupil or student. It is provided by one or more teachers. Tutoring is often offered in case of learning difficulties. It can be provided at home or in a school. This support is therefore a complement to teaching. It aims to strengthen the student's capacity and to compensate for any deficiencies. The courses established in tutoring have precise objectives. The duration of the sessions and the support can be spread over several months. Taking tutoring courses may be initiated by the student, the parents or the teacher.
PRINCIPLES OF TUTORING
Tutoring must be practised with clear objectives in mind: difficulty in a particular subject, problem of work methodology, problem of orientation, etc. Depending on the case, support can be followed up with the aim of optimising the pupil's potential. To do this, the teacher begins by detecting the difficulties encountered by the student. This is often done by means of an evaluation. Depending on the results obtained, the teacher suggests the approach best suited to the child's case. He or she will then propose personalised programmes. Thus, the choice of the tutoring formula depends on the expected objectives, in particular the improvements desired by the parents and the student himself. Therefore, according to each context, it is necessary to determine the real problems and the reasons why the beneficiaries seek support.
WHO IS TUTORING FOR?
Tutoring is intended for all those who encounter problems in their school career. This support is generally dedicated to pupils or students over the age of 10. Below this age group, it is still too early to ask for tutoring. It is therefore from the middle school onwards that tutoring is used. In order to achieve the objectives set, it is essential that the beneficiary understands the usefulness and benefits of the support. Despite the fact that adolescents are less motivated by tutoring, they need more conviction. Parents must then pass on to their children the main advantages of this support.