The Philosophy of good tutoring
Element 1: Differentiated instruction methods
A tutor should consider all the different students, and the different ways in which they would understand a lesson. The actual methods used to deliver the lesson should involve multiple methods which cover the same concepts in the lesson. That means If I was trying to explain a difficult concept, I would apply 2 or 3 different methods when explaining the concept. This is to ensure that as many different learners as possible will understand at least one of the methods I have used for that specific concept in that specific lesson.
Element 2: Consider the language levels and abilities of all students
Most classes need to be mediated through the spoken word from tutor to student. Therefore, even for a subject like mathematics, it ultimately must be taught through mostly spoken words. It is important to consider that not all students language abilities are the same. If lessons are to be taught in English, consider that some students might struggle with the English language. That means that one must consider the “level” of English one will be using, when giving a lesson. One should actively plan ahead and try to incorporate a level of English that will be understood by all students. Tutors should also try to use non-linguistic methods as well, such as using pictures, symbols and physical actions that could help the understanding of students.
Element 3: Be aware of and consider the different cultures of students in the class
To avoid negative outcomes, where some pupils might become negative or even offended, its important a tutor understand the different cultures, and norms of those cultures, when mediating a lesson. Factors such as the culture, gender, religion, race and socioeconomic characteristics of students in a lesson need to be understood and considered, when one is planning and delivering lessons.
Element 4: The use of blended teaching augmented by technology.
A modern tutor would use resource aids such as technology in the class room. That is to say that a laptop or computer will be present in the classroom and integrated into a lesson. The use of a computer, or computers if possible, will allow for more visual, or practical research and unassisted learning to take place. This will help with the inclusiveness of learners and give the tutor more time, that can be invested in the class in different ways. An example of a possible scenario could be where a tutor handles one-on-one queries while, other students are carrying on with a lesson presented through a video on the computer/s available in the classroom.
Element 5: Cater to the many different learning styles.
It would be important for a tutor to ensure that their teaching methods will cater for all the different learning styles of learners. Tutors would have to understand the possible learning styles of various learners and ensure that their teaching methods incorporate as much as possible, in terms of covering as many of the learning styles as possible. This will be achieved by using applicable, and modern, differentiated teaching methods.
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