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Whether you're new to tutoring or a seasoned veteran, there's always room for improving your skills. Being flexible and adaptable in your teaching style enables you to get the most out of your students, so to help you hone your skills; we've put together a list of ways you can take your teaching to the next level.
Adapt to Your Student's Learning Style
Students learn in different ways. Some respond better to a more visual approach using images, diagrams and videos, whereas others are more reflective, preferring to learn through reading and taking notes. Some students learn best by taking a practical approach and being hands-on with the subject matter. Students who learn better by doing often prefer to work through practical examples or relate theories and ideas to real-world situations. There are a number of free online tests you can do with your students to determine which learning style suits them best but whichever style they prefer, it's important that you have ideas for how to make lessons inspiring for them. By being adaptable in your approach and with a little forward-planning, you can get the most out of your students. You might be also interested in this following post which is speaking about How to create a stimulating learning environment.
Take a Student-Centred Approach
Keeping on top of the latest developments in teaching methods can be a great way to improve your tuition skills. With a move towards student-focused learning in recent years, try embracing some new techniques to better engage your students with your lessons. Ask them questions and ask for their thoughts on a particular topic or question. Encouraging a student to reflect on their own learning gives them time to adjust any areas that need improvement and promotes their own learning-awareness. If a student feels they are in control of their learning, they'll be more likely to achieve their goals.
Embrace New Technologies
Are you living in the dark ages when it comes to implementing technology into your tutoring? Nowadays, most students already have a developed understanding of technology and how it impacts on their lives. Almost every student owns a laptop, mobile device or tablet and they're normally very comfortable using them. Think of ways that you can incorporate these technologies into your lessons to make them more stimulating for your students. There are tonnes of different educational apps and software out there that you can make use of, all it takes is a little research.
Personalise Lessons
Get to know a bit about your students on a personal level. What are their hobbies and interests? The more you get to know your students, the better equipped you'll be to personalise lessons to suit their interests. We all learn better when we feel a connection to the subject we're studying. Even though it may not be possible to personalise every single piece of theory or idea, it's useful to be aware of any opportunities as they arise. Perhaps there's a particular aspect of a subject that you know your student will enjoy or a particular book that you think they'll find interesting? Actively seek out these opportunities to make lessons as interesting as possible. _ How do you ensure that you're constantly improving your tuition skills? Are you focusing on any particular area at the moment? How do you think these tips will help you in engaging with your students better? We'd love to hear from you. _
