Math tutoring- instant vs. scheduled. Is one better than the other?

Thanks to technology there are now many various ways to learn online and get instant information and even tutoring for your child. If you are looking for a math tutor in Edmonton, our team here at Mathnasium welcomes you to contact us to discuss your child’s learning needs. In this article we are going to look at the various learning options available for your child and in this instance, instant versus scheduled learning and whether one is better than the other.

There are currently two forms of online math tutoring- instant vs. scheduled. Is one better than the other?

Firstly, what is Instant tutoring? Instant tutoring is available the moment you log on to the specific math tutoring website. There is no need to schedule tutoring lessons in advance. This is great for students who need instant help while working on their math homework or right before their test. This can be really helpful in a pinch and can support your child’s learning when needed immediately.

Scheduled Math Tutoring lessons are pre-scheduled, and a tutor is available at the set time. For example, at Mathnasium of Edmonton our tutors will work with your child’s schedule to set up times that are convenient and build on a regular schedule to help your child achieve success through their learning. Although instant help is not offered, it is more systematic, and students and teachers are well prepared for their lessons. They also get an opportunity to accumulate a bunch of difficult problems and make the most of their tutoring time. These also allow for time between sessions for your child to process the new information and also to think of any questions or concerns with their understanding in their previous session.

Even though lessons are pre-scheduled, most online tutoring companies let students reschedule their lessons in case they are unable to make it at a particular time due to a conflict in their schedule. You can discuss this and our rescheduling and cancellation policies in detail with our tutors at our math learning centre.

Is there a disadvantage in Instant tutoring? Some students may develop a dependency on such tutoring websites as help is available 24/7 and they may not even try to solve the problem themselves. Such dependency and lack of initiative may lead to a poor fundamental knowledge of the subject. At Mathnasium of Edmonton we discover the cracks in the foundations of your child’s learning and make sure they thoroughly understand the subject in order to move forward successfully. Like google has replaced old fashioned encyclopedias and libraries, the traditional research and learning methods have changed, and instant fixes can achieve quick results but may not help your child to actually learn the subject.
With scheduled learning, students are encouraged to try to solve the problems themselves and encouraged and mentored by their regular tutor. They will feel a sense of achievement and growth at each session as opposed to just filling in the blanks with instant tutoring sessions.

Through instant tutoring, most students will get a different math tutor each time they take a lesson. Lesson time will also be wasted in getting used to a new tutor each time and there will be no continuity. At Mathnasium our method includes understanding your child’s learning style so that the teaching method matches well and they can thoroughly digest the information given to them in a way that is enjoyable and enriching.

Your child will also develop a rapport with their tutor that will add to the encouragement and growth of self esteem as they get to show their tutor how well they are doing and can share in their successes together. Our tutors are not only skilled mathematicians but also dedicated teachers who are passionate about sharing their knowledge in the best ways for your child to retain the information and improve as students.

Instant tutors may not have access to the curriculum or exact areas of study that your child is working on. In some instances, the tutors at Mathnasium will actually work with your child’s current teacher to make sure they are on the same path and working towards the same goal, your child’s success.

Each tutoring methodology has its pros and cons. Which style works for you depends on your child’s learning needs, your budget and schedule. Contact Mathnasium today to see what options would work best for you and your child.