The Tools of the Trade: Online Tutoring (LTAT 310 BLOG #7)



As an online tutor, it's important to utilize the right tools and strategies to ensure a successful tutoring session. In this blog post, we'll discuss two popular tools, Google Meet and Discord, as well as their advantages for online tutoring. We'll also explore how to structure an online session, signal your presence, and create backup plans for when tech goes wrong.

Google Meet is a user-friendly platform that allows for seamless video and audio communication. It is perfect for online tutoring as it offers features such as screen sharing, real-time captions, and breakout rooms. It's easy to use and integrates with other Google apps, making it convenient for both tutors and students.

Discord is another excellent tool for online tutoring. It provides a chat-based platform with voice and video capabilities. Discord is highly customizable, allowing you to create different channels for various subjects, making it easy to keep your tutoring sessions organized.

The biggest reason I usually end up using one of these two tools, is the fact that they are easy to run, either being able to run in a browser or have software that you run off of your desktop. And don't require anything resembling top-end hardware.

When structuring an online session using the Tutoring Cycle, consider the following steps:

  1. Establish rapport with the tutee and set session goals.
  2. Assess the tutee's understanding of the material.
  3. Employ appropriate tutoring techniques and tools.
  4. Review the material and summarize key concepts.
  5. Encourage the tutee to apply what they've learned and set goals for future sessions.

One key difference between on-campus and online sessions is the need to signal your online presence. You can achieve this by being responsive, actively engaging in discussions, and using video or audio cues to demonstrate your attentiveness.

To prepare for potential tech issues, consider the following backup plans:

  1. Difficult Wi-Fi connection: Have a wired internet connection as a backup or a mobile hotspot.
  2. Sound or video problems: Test your microphone and camera beforehand, and have an alternative device ready.
  3. Inability to join the platform: Provide an alternative platform or method of communication, such as phone or email.
  4. Struggling with file sharing: Utilize cloud-based file sharing options like Google Drive or Dropbox.

By using the right tools, structuring your session effectively, and having backup plans in place, you'll be well-equipped to provide a successful and engaging online tutoring experience. 

Comments

  1. Sarah Al-shraidehApril 21, 2023 at 6:32 PM

    Hello Ronald,
    Excellent post! Thank you for sharing your insights on how to conduct a successful online tutoring session. It's great to see that you have highlighted the importance of using the right tools, such as Google Meet and Discord, and how they can benefit both tutors and students.Additionally, your advice on signaling your online presence and having backup plans in case of technical difficulties are crucial for maintaining a positive and productive learning environment. I also like that your post provides a comprehensive guide for online tutors to deliver high-quality sessions and ensure a positive learning experience for their students.

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    Replies
    1. Ron B.April 24, 2023 at 12:05 PM

      Thanks for your comment! Yeah, the backup plan thing is byproduct of having worked in IT for a long time. No matter HOW knowledgeable we may be, technical issues will pop up, and it's always best to have workarounds in place :)

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  2. SeyaApril 24, 2023 at 10:59 AM

    Howdy Ronald!
    I also think Discord might be a really good tutoring tool. I really like the fact that you can set roles, make rules , and create different chanels and chats for different purposes. I think it has a lot of potential. Great post!

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    Replies
    1. Ron B.April 24, 2023 at 12:07 PM

      Yo, Seya! Yeah, discord is definitely a sleeper. Channels, rules, chats, screen sharing AND video calls?? OOOOH YES!

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  3. NessaApril 25, 2023 at 1:03 PM

    Hello!
    I agree that google meet is pretty user friendly. I was intimidated as I'm not very tech savvy, but it's been working out. I was worried about coming back to school and having to be online, but the teachers have been great and posted videos on how to run each site we have to use. I can appreciate the bullet points you posted and they are great to review. Having those main tools and organization have helped me in many ways. Good idea to test the connection prior.

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  4. LizMay 8, 2023 at 2:43 PM

    Excellent point about tools not requiring a high-end machine in order to be accessible!

    ReplyDelete

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