Academic material is definitely crucial in tutoring, but one factor that is frequently overlooked is the tutor-student interaction. While methods, topic, and curriculum offer the foundation for sessions, it is the relationship fostered by a tutor that has the potential to profoundly improve a student’s educational experience.
Reflecting on my own views and experiences, I’ve realised that trust and rapport are essential components of good tutoring. Unlike traditional classroom settings, tutoring allows students to form one-on-one relationships. This unique interaction enables the tutor to identify not only the student’s academic skills and shortcomings, but also their learning preferences, interests, and motivations.
For example, I’ve witnessed how incorporating a student’s passions into lessons may increase participation. When fractions are applied to areas they are interested in, such as baking or soccer statistics, a struggling student’s engagement is increased. This is more than just a strategy for making studying enjoyable; it demonstrates to the student that their interests are important and that learning can have a meaningful impact on their lives. From personal experiences, one of my students enjoys Minecraft, and we were learning to write narratives, so I allowed his story to take place in a Minecraft universe. His enthusiasm for the narrative inspired his interest in writing and encouraged him to be inventive with the details.
Encouragement and positive reinforcement play an important role in connection building in tutoring. Many students seek tutoring because they have academic concerns or are afraid of failing. A simple, honest acknowledgement of their efforts, such as “I see how hard you’re working on this,” can make a huge difference. These simple moments of encouragement help to cultivate a growth mentality in students, teaching them to value effort and progress over perfection.
Building relationships may not be clearly stated on any syllabus, yet its value extends well beyond any particular class. It serves as a reminder that education is about more than simply what we educate students; it is also about how they feel about themselves and their potential.
Isabella Garofalo
