I recently witnessed my fellow tutor working with a Year 12 student on Business Studies. Watching the session unfold, I was surprised by how much emphasis she placed on guidance, critical thinking, and creating a friendly environment.
The session began with the student discussing her current difficulty in her extended response questions. Instead of providing clear explanations, the tutor encouraged the student to express her ideas and reasoning. She posed open-ended questions, which enabled the student to think about her response and guide her in the proper direction. This strategy allowed the student to expand her understanding and acquire critical thinking abilities necessary for higher-level learning.
This observation demonstrated the value of asking insightful questions, fostering a calm yet focused atmosphere, and practicing active listening. It served as a reminder that good tutoring involves more than just imparting knowledge; it also entails giving learners the skills and attitude they need to think critically on their own and face difficulties head-on.
The tutor remained composed and supportive over the entire session, emphasising that errors were teaching moments rather than failures. The student seemed more assured of her comprehension by the end of the session and keen to take on more challenges.
Isabella Garofalo
