Tutoring provides the flexibility to adjust to different learning styles, aiding students in their pursuit of academic success. Whether a student is a visual, auditory or reading/writing learner, personalised tutoring offers an environment that takes into account their unique needs, helping them absorb information more effectively, maintain engagement and promote confidence in their knowledge and abilities. For visual learners, their specific learning style panders to images, diagrams, written words and charts. These students often benefit from observing concepts laid out in a visual format. In recognising this preference, tutors are able to use mind maps, colour-coded notes and flowcharts to visualise concepts whilst similarly utilising interactive tools such as whiteboards or video lessons to reinforce knowledge in an appealing manner. Varingly, auditory learners best process information when it is spoken or heard. They benefit from verbal explanations, listening to information aloud and discussions. Tutors are able to capitalise on this learning skill by reading information aloud to them, encouraging them to repeat the key points and thus explaining concepts through a one-on-one discussion. Mnemonics and rhymes similarly can be used for these students to best remember facts. In engaging with homework tasks, a tutor may set a specific podcast, audiobook or recorded lesson for a student to listen to in order to reinforce what has been taught in the lesson. Finally, reading/writing learners absorb information best through reading and writing activities. They primarily excel in environments where textbooks are available and they are able to take notes and write essays. Tutors, therefore, are able to encourage note-taking, creating written summaries and highlighting key points of information. For homework tasks, tutors can prescribe writing essays or reading materials such as books and articles for the student to read to reinforce concepts covered in the lesson. By understanding a student’s specific learning style, tutors are able to adapt their teaching strategies to ensure the student is focused within the lesson and thus able to retain the information.

Georgina Maxwell