I do not fear computers. I fear lack of them. Isaac Asimov
Every day new technologies are being added to our digital toolkits and are adopted into our everyday lives. This includes software for teaching online classes to make lives easier for both tutors and students.
So how do you approach online tutorials?
In this article, you will find out about platform options that are suited to online lessons as well as how to find online tutor services. We’ll also touch on other tools for online learning and suggest equipment for a typical digital classroom.
Which Program Should You Use for Online Tutorials?
One of the most important tools for online learning is videoconferencing software for teaching online classes.
In terms of options, there are many tools out there, with some being better than others.
One of the most famous programs is Skype. Created in Sweden, this program quickly conquered the market. People of all ages used Skype to keep in touch with one another. For a very long time, it was one of the only tools that many people could access to video conferences. It’s very easy to videoconference several people at once. It was the logical successor to chat programs like MSN Messenger.
More recently, as a result of the Covid-19 pandemic, Skype has been overtaken by Zoom, especially as the chosen software for teaching online classes.
Reasons for this include the fact that Zoom is quick and easy to use and allows the host to include a large number of participants. As it’s easier than Skype and offers a scheduling tool for planning online lessons, Zoom has quickly become the world’s must-have software for teaching online classes and hosting business meetings
Much like Skype and Zoom, Google offers Google Hangouts which also allows participants to see each other over webcam.
So, what’s the number one thing about Google Hangouts?
On the whole Google apps make good tools for online learning because participants can share and work on the same documents. To use these tools for online tutor services, planning online lessons or arranging an online tutorial, all you need is a free Google account.
Other software for teaching online classes is the lesser-known BigBlueButton which is popular with teachers who like the interactive whiteboard.
Of course, both Messenger and WhatsApp can also be used for video calls. However, it is advised that you rather use dedicated software for teaching online classes, most of which are mobile-friendly if you are using your smartphone.
How Can You Find Online Tutor Services?
Most parents and learners require academic support at some stage of a child’s school career. Fortunately, whether it is to help a child prepare for exams or manage their homework, help is available.
There are many ways that online tutor services or organisations that can help. Superprof for instance, has tutors from all over the world, including South Africa on their platform. There are tutors for almost any subject to suit varying budgets and individual needs.
On Superprof you could find in-person academic support by using the websites location finder tool or choose to learn online via webcam.
It is also possible to make use of the classifieds, social media or word of mouth recommendations to find a tutor. Ask your friends, family and the school teacher if they know of any academic support tutors too.
Choosing the right tutor is critical to the success of private teaching which is very dependent on the student and tutor having a good personality fit. One way to ensure this is to ask the tutor all the right questions about their experience, qualifications and teaching style. This is where the free starter lesson that most Superprof tutors offer can also really help.
10 Tips for Arranging an Online Tutorial
As a student, how can you make sure that you get the most out of online tutorials?
This is a common question especially when online tutorials can feel more tiring and less interactive than in-person lessons. Fortunately, there are ways to improve this.
Once you have had success arranging an online tutorial with the right person, your next step should be planning online lessons.
Don’t be fooled into thinking that learning online can take place whenever, because lessons should be scheduled and regular for them to be of benefit.
Planning online lessons includes finding the right place to take them.
Children need to focus even harder when learning online.
This can mean making sure that they have a calm and quiet space to get on with their lesson without their siblings running around or interrupting them.
Something you may not have thought of is that the same can be said for the computer. Before the lesson starts make sure that all tabs and windows that are not needed are closed. Planning online lessons in this way will make sure that you are not tempted to look at distracting social media sites or emails. There are even ways to block certain websites and networks by applying certain settings in your browser.
Another way to help you to stay focused is to keep your camera on throughout the lesson. This way, you will not be tempted to fall asleep or read messages on your phone.
Also, remember that note-taking is an effective way to concentrate, remember content and stay focused. Consider sketching or mind-mapping if that is more useful to you.
Get into the habit of going back over what you have learnt in between sessions and take regular breaks in between each one. Unfortunately, (or fortunately) spending too much time in front of a screen can also be counter-productive.
Equipment and Tools for Online Learning
Arranging an online tutorial takes organisation and planning. Unfortunately, taking an online lesson with your old smartphone is probably not going to be very productive. Making the most of all that private tuition has to offer means planning online lessons, and that means ensuring you have the right tools for the job.
You could take your online lessons via tablet, computer or smartphone, even though the latter is not recommended. Not only will the screen be a bit small but you would need to continually hold or reposition it which is not ideal for anything other than really short sessions.
Before arranging an online tutorial, try to make sure that you have a decent tablet or computer on which to take your lessons. Also, make sure that your device is able to accommodate your chosen software for teaching online classes. If necessary, have it looked at by an I.T service who can make sure that it is running at its optimum.
Besides your tablet or computer, you will also need a robust internet connection that does not let you down by constantly buffering. Test your home connection versus using your smartphone as an access point, and see which connection is better.
Remember that you can get internet access from just about anywhere these days, so consider the best alternative place to take your lessons if it is not at home.
Another essential item to consider if you are planning online lessons is a pair of headphones so that everyone around you does not have to listen to every last minute of your lesson. It would also be helpful to make sure that your headset includes an attached microphone. That said, do not invest in a huge headset if you need to get up and around a lot.
Finally, in terms of software, your tutor will probably suggest the one that he or she has the most success with, but find out upfront what that is so that you can download it.
As you can tell planning online lessons before you start them, is essential.
Teaching an online course has the potential to be rewarding for students as well as the teacher. Students benefit from affordable academic support whether they are at school, university or looking for help professionally or personally.
For teachers and tutors, they provide an opportunity to schedule more classes in a week because they do not have to waste time and money on transport to the homes of their students.
By choosing the right software, digital resources and tutor, you will be well placed for your online tutorials to be just as effective as a face-to-face session. Even though in-person classes are preferable for practical, or hands-on subjects, the digital classroom has become a powerful place for learning most academic subjects and skills.
Enjoyed this article? Leave a rating!
Loading...
