In this month’s blog, we dive deep into a subject that often stirs up questions and concerns from teachers, tutors, and even parents – the debate between one-to-one tuition and group tuition programmes.
We’ve all heard the common objections: “Isn’t one-to-one better value?” “Is one-to-one more efficient and personalised for my child?” “Surely, one-to-one is the superior choice?”
If you’ve ever pondered these questions or struggled to articulate the advantages of group programmes (even to yourself!), then you’re in for a treat. We’re here to dispel these myths and shed light on the true potential of group tuition.
Let’s be clear – not all group programmes are created equal. We understand that some may conjure images of generic Zoom sessions with a multitude of kids, which can understandably raise concerns.
However, when meticulously crafted and effectively communicated to our ideal clients, which are the parents and their children, group programmes can be a game-changer.
So let’s dive into 6 of the most common myths and FAQs we hear at the 2 Hour Tutor HQ. Feel free to use them yourself if the need arises!
6 of the most common myths and FAQs
Q: Isn’t one-to-one tuition more personalised?
A: While one-to-one tuition can provide individual attention, it can also lead to an over-reliance on the weekly meetings with the tutor and, ultimately, slow progress. Group tuition, when structured well, is built with 3 core pillars:
1 – Self-study. Students can access a pre-recorded curriculum in the form of video content meaning valuable lesson time isn’t wasted, and is more productive
2 – One to one feedback. Students can reach out to their tutor between lessons if they don’t understand something, and tutors give personalised feedback using efficient tools such as screen recording and voice notes, so that they can continue to progress between lessons.
2 – Group learning. Students can share their perspectives on the learning and go deeper with their tutor, meaning progress is made faster.
1:1 tuition, on the other hand, lacks these elements and all the focus is in the allocated lesson time, which can be inefficient and stressful (see below).
Q: My child is already resistant to having a tutor. Won’t a group setting make it worse?
A: In fact, the reverse can often be true. The intense focus required for 1:1 tuition can be stressful for both the tutor and the student. Additionally, the gap between lessons is typically quite long, which can result in poor retention of information and a loss of learning efficiency.
Q: Why is group learning better for children?
A: Children (and even adults) often thrive when they are among their peers, as they can relate to and learn from each other. Group learning fosters interaction, collaboration, and socialisation. It also allows for more opportunities to engage in enjoyable activities and switching things up with games and breakout rooms, which have been proven to facilitate learning.
Q: How does group learning work?
A: Our courses are designed to combine group learning with individualised attention. Students access video lessons weekly, taking ownership of their learning and preparing for the group sessions. We also provide a direct line of communication between the tutor and the student, encouraging them to reach out with questions and submit work for review.
This way, progress can be made both individually and as part of the group learning experience. The result is that much more progress is made week on week when compared to the one to one tuition where progress can be much slower.
Q: Is one-to-one tuition better value than a group programme?
A: It’s a common misconception that one-to-one tuition offers better value than a group programme. In reality, one-to-one tuition fees can range from £30 to £50 per hour or even more, depending on the specialisation.
If you consider having these sessions every week for an indefinite period, which could be as long as an entire academic year or more, it can add up to £2000 or even more.
This doesn’t include travel expenses for face-to-face sessions, nor the hidden costs of lack of retention between sessions. On the other hand, a well-crafted group programme with a specialised teacher typically ranges from £400 to £800, offering not only cost savings but also saving time.
In just 12 weeks or even less, children can overcome their challenges and get back to excelling in their studies while regaining time for their hobbies and social activities.
Q: Isn’t face-to-face learning better than online learning?
A: While face-to-face learning may have some benefits of physical presence, the advantages of online learning outweigh the drawbacks. Firstly, as a parent, you eliminate the need for driving time and fuel costs by opting for online learning.
Your child can comfortably have their lessons at home, and you can even be in the same room or nearby, ensuring they are engaged and supported throughout. Moreover, online learning offers flexibility in scheduling and removes geographical barriers.
It also provides access to a wider pool of expert tutors, expanding the options available to your child. Don’t worry, the online format doesn’t compromise the quality of education or support your child receives.
The keyword here is “educate.” As educators, it’s our duty to educate our audience on the merits of well-designed group tuition programmes. Only then can people truly appreciate the differences.
Many have not experienced a well-crafted group programme, and it’s our task to explain why this isn’t just the best and most fun option for their child but also the most efficient and cost-effective one in the long run.
If you’ve found it challenging to convey these benefits to potential parents or if you’re a teacher contemplating a transition to a group tuition programme but need more support and clarity, you’re in the right place!
