Maths is probably one of the most difficult subjects at school, and it is not surprising why some students struggle with it. Parents hire a primary maths tutor to help their kids overcome the challenge.
Parents have two options when getting tutors: an offline and online math tutor in Singapore. But which of the two is better? This article will discuss the differences and similarities between the two.
Offline VS Online Math Tutor In Singapore: Which Is Better?
TUTORING SETUP
Offline
There are two types of offline classes: a group class and an individual class.
In a group class, the person goes to a math tuition centre in Singapore and attends class in person with other kids. Each class may comprise at least 15 students. The facility of the tuition centre is almost the same as schools.
Group class can also be held in the tutor’s home. This setup applies to freelancers, individual tutors or those who don’t work in tuition centres. The tutor has a facility at their home where they can teach a group of students.
Individual or one-on-one teaching sessions can happen in the student’s home. The tutor goes to the student’s home and brings a lesson plan and a free math worksheet for the student. The student has no classmates.
The one-on-one in-person teaching sessions can also occur at the tutor’s home.
Online
Similarly, online has two setups: a group class and an individual class; the only difference is the class is held online.
A group online tutoring class usually comprises a maximum of 10 students. The students do not need to go to a math tuition centre in Singapore to attend the class.
In an individual class, the student and the secondary math tutor in Singapore are the only ones in the online classroom. There is no need to go to a math tuition centre as well.
LOCATION AND TOOLS
Offline
As mentioned, there are two possible locations for offline classes: in a tuition centre or at home.
A math tuition centre in Singapore has the same facilities as a school, including classrooms, desks, whiteboards, and other teaching tools, such as visual aids, projectors, and TV. The facilities have restrooms as well.
The location of tuition centres varies. Most of the time, parents choose a tuition centre near their neighbourhood.
The class can also happen at the student’s home. The dinner table and study room are the usual areas where tutoring sessions occur. However, the tools are limited. Besides the student’s workbook, the teacher also brings a free math worksheet and tools, such as their tablets and laptops for visual aids.
Online
There is no definite location for an online tutoring class as long as the student and the secondary math tutor in Singapore has internet access and electronic devices, such as laptop, smartphones, and tablets.
The primary tools for an online tutoring class are an internet connection and a laptop or tablet. Tutors use communication software and apps such as Zoom, Google Meet, and Skype to teach kids.
They also teach using game-based learning platforms, such as Kahoot! and Quipper.
An online math tutor in Singapore sends digital copies of modules and worksheets, which students can download to their devices freely.
Tutors also conduct tests online using software and apps, such as Google Forms, Microsoft Forms, and Typeform.
SCHEDULE AND TIME BENEFITS
Offline
Like formal schools, a math tuition centre in Singapore has a fixed class schedule; most of the time, the classes are on the weekends. Sessions can also be held twice a week.
It is the same with an in-person tutor. There is a fixed schedule where the tutor goes to the student’s home and teaches; however, this setup is much more flexible than a tuition centre. The class can be in the morning, afternoon, or evening. It all depends on the teacher’s packed schedule. Sometimes, a tutor handles several in-person one-on-one classes in one day.
Online
Similar to offline group classes, online group tutoring sessions have a fixed schedule. It can be on weekends or weekdays.
The one-on-one tutoring session is much more flexible. Although there is also a fixed schedule, it is less difficult to raincheck the session or to start the class late for a few minutes since it is online.
When the online class coincides with the student’s school class or other important activity, the online math tutor in Singapore can record themselves teaching and send the student a copy of the recording.
Nevertheless, it is ethical and respectful for the student and tutor to start the class on time.
EXPENSES
Online
The rates depend on the tutor or math tuition centre in Singapore. Experienced and credible ones tend to be more expensive than unknown tutoring service providers.
There is also a cost difference between a group class setup and a one-on-one setup. Group classes tend to be cheaper than one-on-one classes.
Traditional face-to-face class rates, group or not, are more expensive than online classes.
There are other expenses other than the tuition fee rates. For example, travel and food expenses also add to the expenditures of the student or parent.
Offline
Similarly, the rates of the online class depend on the tutor or the math tuition centre in Singapore. Those renowned tutors and tutorial centres are more expensive.
Online group classes are also much cheaper than one-on-one online classes.
Generally, the parents don’t have to spend on travel and food allowance since the students have their class in the comforts of their homes. However, the parents must invest in internet connection and electronic devices, such as laptops, computers, and tablets, which are also useful academic tools.
Online or Offline Tutoring?
There are tons of things to consider before you can determine which one is for you. How much are you willing to spend on your primary maths tutor or tutoring centre? Do you value convenience over the quality of teaching? Do you have the appropriate materials and facility for tutoring?
After reading this guide, tick all your boxes and determine if online or offline tutoring is for your kid.
CalibreMath
Are you looking for a math tuition centre in Singapore? CalibreMath provides high-quality tutoring services. Visit CalibreMath today.