What are the Most Common Mistakes Students Make in Online Tutoring?

by Julie Diamond, OCT

This blog will take 5 minutes to read

Online tutoring has become an increasingly popular method for students to receive personalized academic support. With its flexibility and accessibility, students can connect with tutors, regardless of their location, to enhance their learning experience. 

However, despite its many benefits, students often make common mistakes that can hinder their progress.

This week’s blog outlines these mistakes and gives feedback to help students of all ages maximize the effectiveness of their online tutoring sessions.

1. Proper Preparation

To make the most out of online tutoring sessions, students should come prepared. This means reviewing relevant material beforehand, identifying specific areas where they need help, and preparing questions. Having a clear objective for each session can help students stay focused and make efficient use of their time.

Tips for Preparation:

- Review notes and textbooks from the previous session (if applicable) before the next session.

- Identify key areas or concepts that are challenging for them. 

- Prepare a list of questions or topics to discuss with the tutor. 

With our online platform, students can upload questions or worksheets directly to the whiteboard before sessions to allow tutors to review them and come prepared. 

- Gather necessary resources, such as textbooks, notebooks, and calculators, before logging on for the session. 

2. Active Participation

Active participation is key to a successful online tutoring experience. Students should engage with their tutor by asking questions, seeking clarification, and actively participating in discussions. This helps deepen understanding and retention of the material.

Strategies for Active Participation:

- Ask questions whenever a concept is unclear.

- Take notes during the session to reinforce learning.

- Engage in problem-solving exercises and discussions.

- Summarize what you have learned at the end of each session.

It’s important to have a tutor whom you feel comfortable with to ask questions and make mistakes. If you don’t, then you may want to consider getting another tutor. 

3. Minimize Technical Issues and Distractions

Ensuring a stable internet connection and having the necessary hardware and software in place is crucial for a smooth online tutoring experience. Additionally, students should create a distraction-free study environment. 

Steps to Minimize Issues:

- Test your internet connection and technology before the session.

- Choose a quiet, comfortable, and well-lit study space.

- Turn off notifications and limit access to distracting devices.

- Make sure other members of your household know your tutoring schedule to minimize interruptions.

4. Develop a Structured Study Plan

A well-structured study plan can help students use their tutoring sessions more effectively. This plan should outline the topics to be covered, set clear goals, and track progress over time.

Creating a Study Plan:

- Set specific, measurable goals for each session.

- Prioritize topics based on difficulty and importance.

- Review progress regularly and adjust the plan as needed.

- Incorporate regular breaks and review sessions.

Our tutors create a structured plan with learning objectives for the semester. It is shared with students and their family as a Google document and the progress and feedback about next steps are updated after each session. The student is involved in the creation of the ‘Success Strategy’ to promote autonomy over their learning. 

5. Balance Tutor Assistance with Independent Learning

This is a big mistake we see students make.  

While tutors are there to help, some students may become overly reliant on them, expecting them to provide all the answers without making an effort to understand the material independently. This can limit a student's ability to develop critical thinking and problem-solving skills. 

While tutors provide valuable support, students should also strive to develop their own understanding and problem-solving skills. Balancing tutor guidance with independent study is crucial for confidence and long-term success. 

Tips for Independent Learning:

- Attempt to solve problems on your own before seeking help.

- Review session notes and practice exercises independently.

- Utilize additional resources, such as online courses, books, and practice tests.

- Reflect on feedback and work on areas for improvement.

As a teacher, I am a big advocate for promoting age-appropriate independent learning skills with my students. It’s important that students, of any age, not rush to their tutor/teacher immediately without first attempting to solve problems on their own. 

Some students may not feel confident with independent learning so this should be a skill they build with their tutor’s guidance. 

6. Maintain Consistent Attendance

Consistent attendance is essential for continuous learning and progress. Regular sessions help reinforce concepts and provide a structured learning environment.

Tips for Consistency:

- Set a regular schedule for tutoring sessions. It’s important not to schedule sessions on an ‘as-needed’ basis especially the night before tests. This makes it difficult for the tutor to gauge your progress and continue the learning past the material for the test. 

- Prioritize tutoring sessions in your weekly routine.

- Communicate with your tutor about scheduling and availability.

- Stay committed and motivated to achieve your learning goals.

7. Value and Act on Feedback

Feedback from tutors is a valuable tool for improvement. Students should take feedback seriously, understand its importance, and work on implementing the suggestions provided.

Using Feedback Effectively:

- Review feedback carefully and ask for clarification if needed.

- Reflect on the feedback and identify areas for improvement.

- Set specific goals to address weaknesses.

- Track progress and adjust your study strategies accordingly.

Online tutoring offers a unique and effective way for students to receive personalized academic support. However, students must be proactive and avoid common mistakes to truly benefit from it.

By preparing adequately, participating actively, minimizing technical issues and distractions, developing a structured study plan, balancing tutor assistance with independent learning, maintaining consistent attendance, and valuing feedback, students can enhance their learning experience and achieve their academic goals.

With these strategies in place, students can make the most of their online tutoring sessions and build the confidence they need to excel in their studies.