As you prepare your student for online learning, here are some ways that as a parent, you can assist in making sure the learning environment is conducive to fostering a great relationship and familiarity between your student and their tutor.
Virtual and online learning has become much more popular since the COVID-19 pandemic. But it’s been around much longer than the past few years and has always been a great option for parents who want their students to get academic support as conveniently as possible.
Preparing kids for online learning
Help your child to get familiar with their tutor
A strong rapport is imperative to a great tutoring relationship. Though face-to-face tutoring is a good option for students who need it, virtual tutoring is also an excellent way to meet and become comfortable with the tutor who will work with your student.
With online learning, building a rapport is still possible, even when in separate locations. In the same way that you would begin a tutoring session by checking in with each other, setting goals, and getting focused, you can still begin your session with this communication.
Set up a comfortable working environment
Many parents find that allowing your child to create (or take a large part in) their learning environment is a great way to get your child invested in their own learning. Make sure your student has access to snacks (healthy brain food!), as well as a solid understanding of the learning platforms they will be using. This will eliminate frustration and provide your child for online learning with their tutor.
Allow your child to explore the chosen platform in advance
First, consider how you will connect for your session. Many tutors use GoogleHangouts and GoogleDocs. Others use Microsoft Teams and Zoom. And still others prefer Skype. Any of these learning platforms provide a great way for your student to prepare for online learning with their tutor.
If you are working on an assignment or reading something together, make sure you each have a copy before you begin. If it is a document, many phones have apps now to send and scan a document so that you can both have access to it.
On Google, you can share screens or share documents. I love GoogleDocs when helping a student with writing because we can talk to each other over GoogleTalk and work on the document simultaneously using the GoogleDoc feature.
Provide additional support as needed
Ultimately, online instruction might take some getting used to. But the benefits for the environment, the ease with which you can meet, and the ability to maintain support and rapport are great reasons for considering the online platform.
Natalie Mangrum is the founder and CEO of Maryland Teacher Tutors. She is a reading specialist with a bachelors in elementary education and masters in education. As a parent to two young adults, and prior teacher, Natalie knows all too well the benefits of one-on-one tutoring and coaching for students. Her mission is to ensure that every aspect of MTT is done in a spirit of excellence! She enjoys alleviating the concerns of parents so they can breathe easy knowing their children are in good hands!
