In-Home Tutoring vs Tutoring Centers

One-on-one, personalized, in-home instruction is the most effective way for students to focus on academic improvement and build confidence.

From Wikipedia:

Topic

In-Home Tutoring

Center Based Tutoring

Place of Instruction

In-home tutors work in the family’s own home overcoming any potential transportation issues the family may have. If necessary, the agency will find an alternate location such as school, a library, community center or relative’s home.

Located only at the particular learning center of the company. Creates transportation issues for families that may have limited transportation. Inconvenient.

Time of Tutoring

Tutors schedule tutoring sessions with each family finding times that are conducive to the family’s schedule.

Times are dictated by the tutoring company with little to no flexibility for the family.

Tutoring Content

Uses the student’s homework as the core curriculum for helping students succeed in their classrooms. Some supplemental aids may also be used, especially if a child is significantly behind in particular subject areas. The agency is also able to help children with standardized test taking. A tailored academic plan is designed for each student.

Set curriculum that is in addition to the student’s homework at school. Little to no individualization of instruction is offered. Creates a further burden on a child that is already behind by adding to the work the child must comprehend and complete.

Type of Instruction

One-on-one instruction is the very best way to help children who are behind discover the learning styles and methods that can catch them up.

Groups of students in a learning center with a set curriculum and little time for individualized instruction or help.

Contact with Student's School

Tutors are encouraged to contact the student’s teachers, to work hand-in-hand with them and create a program oriented toward the student’s needs. In-home tutoring agencies have successfully worked with school districts tutoring children under special arrangements and helping them pass classes or grades they otherwise would have failed.

No contact with a student’s current teachers.