A tutor is a person who specializes in a particular subject and helps others succeed in that same area. They can be very hands-on in terms of developing lesson plans and material to help their students, or they can simply be there to answer questions and review homework. There are numerous types of tutors, ranging from traditional math tutors to more specialized ones who deal with specific computer programs only. Regardless of their field, a successful tutor will generally have a set number of qualities.
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.
A tutor also needs to be able to access the abilities of their students and make adjustments to their lesson plans and teaching strategy to best meet the needs of their students. Brilliant tutoring programs in structure are not enough if the students fall behind or are too advanced for the initial approach. The tutor needs to figure out not only how their students are doing but adjust their approach to best help how their students learn. This is one of the key skills for becoming an effective and successful tutor.
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.
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Education • September 30th, 2009 •