With advances in technology, we’ve recently seen increases in the number of online tuition courses appearing. Many parents ask our opinion on whether online tuition works, or whether the traditional face-to-face tuition is better. Today we thought we’d help answer this query by providing the advantages and disadvantages of online learning versus face to face tuition.
The benefits of online learning compared to face-to-face tuition
Convenience
Probably the biggest advantage of online learning when compared to traditional tuition is convenience. Its much easier for your child to login to your computer at home and complete their tuition studies than it is to walk or drive them to their tutor.
Safety
For some parents, having children studying at home gives them a sense of security; their child is safe at home, and they don’t need to worry about the child traveling to and from the tuition provider.
The benefits of traditional face-to-face learning compared to online learning
Human Interaction
This may surprise you, but 93% of communication is actually non-verbal. This can be broken into body language which represents 55% of communication, and the tone of voice which represents another 38% of communication (psychologytoday.com). Online learning cannot substitute the human interaction children receive face-to-face. When children learn with a tutor being physically present, they are able to learn through not only what is being spoken, but also through body language and the tone of voice used by the tutor.
Better Explanations
Particularly when your child begins learning a new concept (for example, the first time they carry in addition, or the first time they multiply fractions), an online system will not provide the same level of explanation as a face-to-face tutor can. In addition to this, each child will learn slightly differently, so a tutor is able to alter the way they teach a concept, or explain the concept in a different way to enable the child fully understands.
Environment
The last big advantage of face-to-face tuition as opposed to online learning is the environment. Tuition providers like Lynn’s Learning offer individualised tuition as part of a group environment. While this is not a school classroom, the environment is more closely matched to what children will experience at school. This enables the child to learn not only their academics, but also to learn how to concentrate and cancel-out distractions in a group environment. Having the ability to mingle with other students of all ages also assists in preparing the child socially, which is a huge benefit to any child of any age.
If you are interested in finding out more about Lynn’s Learning Maths and English Tuition, please contact us today. With centres throughout Melbourne, Adelaide and Sydney we can provide your child with an individualised program to help achieve their academic best.
