Whether it is virtual or in-person, tutoring is not just for kids. Virtual tutoring (as opposed to in-person tutoring) has the advantages of being flexible enough you can do it from any private location, and it requires no “drive time.” At CStarsky Lifelong Learning LLC we have worked with adults seeking help with a variety of topics. Three common needs for adult learners include basic adult literacy, basic math needed for handling money, and English as a second language (ESL).
Adult literacy goals have included a desire to improve reading, spelling, and writing skills. Adult students often feel improvements in these areas will help them be a better role model for their children or grandchildren. Reading comprehension has been a goal for adults who feel they can read sentences but, in the end, do not understand what they just read. Improvements in these areas can improve self-confidence as well as personal and work relationships.
Improving basic math skills has been important for adults having trouble with dollars and cents. These challenges may be because they just never learned basic addition and subtraction or because they are not familiar with American money. Understanding how to handle dollars and cents helps adults protect themselves and their own money. It also helps them feel more confident performing routine tasks like going to the grocery store.
ESL tutoring goals have ranged from just beginning to learn the language to wanting to increase writing and conversation skills. Adults often want to communicate in their local communities (e.g., grocery stores, children’s schools, employment). Some adults have wanted to work on improving their American accent because they felt it would improve their credibility and work relationships. Improving communication skills can have a positive ripple effect through many aspects of an adult’s life.
At CStarsky we work hard to build rapport with potential students (adults and children) and to understand their specific needs before we even start the first tutoring session. When tutors build good rapport with students, the students remain more engaged in the sessions, more motivated to learn, and have better outcomes.
What are some other reasons you have seen adults participate in tutoring? Please share your observations in the comments section.
For more information tutoring and training opportunities offered by CStarsky Lifelong Learning LLC check out the Virtual Tutoring and Training page on our website.
