Boost Your Grades & Learning Experience with Online Tuition

Education is one of the most important investments a person can make in their life. In order to prepare young people for the future, it is essential that they have access to a high-quality education. 

With the increasing demand for academic excellence, students are constantly looking for ways to improve their grades and learning experience. Online tuition has become a popular option for students who want to receive a quality education from the comfort of their own homes. 

This article discusses how online tuition can help students to boost their grades and improve their learning experience.

Flexible Learning

Students can choose their own time and place for studying. In the traditional classroom setting, students are bound to a specific schedule and location. 

However, with online tuition, students can learn at their own pace and in their own time. This means that students can choose to study during their free time, which allows them to balance their studies and other commitments.

Personalized Learning

Online tuition offers personalized learning, which is tailored to meet a student’s individual needs. This is a significant advantage over conventional classroom settings when professors are required to teach the entire class. 

With online tuition, students can receive one-on-one attention from their tutor, and the tutor can focus on the student’s strengths and weaknesses. This personalized approach helps students to learn more effectively and efficiently.

Access to Expert Tutors

Online tuition offers students access to expert tutors from around the world. This means that students can learn from the best tutors, regardless of their geographical location. 

Expert tutors can provide students with the necessary guidance and support to help them excel in their studies. With online tuition, students can also choose tutors who specialize in specific subjects, which is not always possible in traditional classroom settings.

Interactive Learning

Online tuition offers interactive learning, which makes the learning experience more engaging and enjoyable. Online tuition platforms offer various tools and features that enhance the learning experience. 

For example, students can use virtual whiteboards to interact with their tutor, share files and documents, and participate in online quizzes and tests. These interactive features make learning more fun and engaging, which helps students to retain information better.

Affordable Learning

Online tuition is an affordable way for students to receive a quality education. Traditional classroom settings can be expensive, especially for students who have to travel long distances to attend classes. 

It eliminates the need for travel, which reduces the cost of education. The platform also offers various pricing options, which means that students can choose a pricing plan that suits their budget.

Improved Grades

Online tuition has proven to be an effective way for students to boost their grades. With personalized learning, students can receive the necessary guidance and support to help them excel in their studies. 

It allows students to learn at their own pace, which means that they can take the time to understand difficult concepts. The interactive learning features also make learning more engaging and enjoyable, which helps students to retain information better.

Increased Confidence and Motivation

With personalized learning, students can receive individual attention and feedback from their tutor. As a result, they will feel more confident in their abilities and more motivated to succeed. 

Online tuition can help students to set achievable goals and track their progress. This sense of accomplishment can further boost their confidence and motivation.

Improved Communication Skills

Online tuition requires students to communicate with their tutors through various online tools and platforms. Students will get the chance to enhance their communication skills, which are crucial for success in any sector. 

They will gain the ability to ask questions, participate in discussions, and communicate effectively. These communication skills will benefit them in their future careers and personal lives.

Conclusion

Online tuition has transformed traditional classroom settings, making education more accessible and convenient for everyone. With this learning method, students can take control of their education and achieve their academic goals. 

So consider online tuition as a viable option if you want to boost your grades and enhance your learning experience.

Prep Academy Tutors offers the best online tutors in Canada. Our personalized in-home and online tutoring services provide top-quality education for students of all ages and levels. 

Find your local tutor, and take the first step towards academic success. Contact us now to get started!

Failing to Acing: How to Choose an Online Tutoring Program

Online tutoring has become increasingly popular in recent years, and for good reason. It offers flexibility and convenience to students who need academic support. However, not all online tutoring programs are created equal. Some are more effective than others, and some are simply a waste of time and money. In this article, we will explore the differences between online tutoring programs, and what to look for when choosing one.

Defining Online Tutoring Programs

Online tutoring programs are designed to provide academic support to students through the internet. They can be accessed from anywhere, at any time, making them a convenient option for students who have busy schedules or live in remote areas. Online tutoring programs can be delivered in a variety of formats, including one-on-one sessions, group sessions, or pre-recorded lessons.

The Importance of Quality Online Tutoring Programs

The quality of an online tutoring program can have a significant impact on a student’s academic performance. A high-quality program can provide personalized support that is tailored to the student’s needs, while a low-quality program may be ineffective or even harmful. It is important for students to choose a program that is designed to help them succeed, rather than simply making a profit.

Types of Online Tutoring Programs

There are several different types of online tutoring programs available, each with its own strengths and weaknesses. Some programs are designed for specific subjects or grade levels, while others offer a broader range of services. Here are some of the most common types of online tutoring programs:

1. Subject-Specific Tutoring Programs

These programs are designed to provide support for a specific subject, such as math, science, or English. They may be geared towards a particular grade level or academic level, and may offer one-on-one or group sessions.

2. Test Prep Programs

Test prep programs are designed to help students prepare for standardized tests, such as the SAT, ACT, or GRE. They may offer practice tests, study guides, and other resources to help students achieve their best possible scores.

3. Language Learning Programs

Language learning programs are designed to help students learn a new language or improve their existing language skills. They may offer one-on-one or group sessions, as well as pre-recorded lessons and interactive exercises.

4. Homework Help Programs

Homework help programs are designed to provide support for students who need help with their homework assignments. They may offer one-on-one or group sessions, as well as resources such as study guides and practice problems.

What to Look for in an Online Tutoring Program

When choosing an online tutoring program, it is important to consider several factors that can affect its effectiveness. Here are some things to look for:

1. Qualifications of Tutors

The qualifications of the tutors can have a significant impact on the quality of the program. Look for tutors who have experience teaching in their subject area, as well as relevant degrees and certifications.

2. Personalization of Support

The best online tutoring programs provide personalized support that is tailored to the student’s needs. Look for programs that offer one-on-one sessions or small group sessions, and that allow for customization of the curriculum.

3. Quality of Curriculum

The curriculum used by the program should be up-to-date and relevant, with a focus on helping students achieve their academic goals. Look for programs that use proven teaching methods and that provide a variety of resources to support student learning.

4. Accessibility and Convenience

Online tutoring programs should be accessible and convenient for students, with a user-friendly interface and flexible scheduling options. Look for programs that offer 24/7 support and that can be accessed from any device with an internet connection.

Conclusion

Online tutoring programs can be a valuable resource for students who need academic support. However, not all programs are created equal. When choosing an online tutoring program, it is important to consider factors such as the qualifications of the tutors, the personalization of support, the quality of the curriculum, and the accessibility and convenience of the program. By choosing a high-quality program, students can receive the support they need to succeed academically.

Don’t let your child’s report card be a source of stress anymore! With Prep Academy Tutors, you can finally breathe easy knowing that your child is receiving personalized in-home or online tutoring services. Find a local tutor in North America and watch your child’s academic success soar with Prep Academy Tutors!

Online Tutors for Kids: Why You Should Give It a Try

As technology continues to evolve and become more integrated into our lives, it is no surprise that it will find its way into the world of education. One of the most significant advancements in recent years has been the growth of online tutoring.

With busy schedules and various learning needs, online tutoring has become an increasingly popular option for parents seeking additional educational support for their children.

If you’re still on the fence about online tutoring, this blog post will shed light on why you should try it.

1. Personalized Learning Experience

One of the most significant advantages of online tutoring for kids is offering a personalized learning experience tailored to each child’s specific needs.

Online tutors can assess a child’s strengths and weaknesses, creating customized lesson plans that address their unique learning gaps. This targeted instruction can help students build their confidence and improve their overall academic performance more effectively than traditional, one-size-fits-all teaching methods.

2. Flexibility and Convenience

Busy schedules are a common challenge for many families, making finding time for traditional tutoring sessions difficult. Online tutoring offers a solution by allowing students to access tutoring services from the comfort of their homes and at a time that works best for them. This flexibility can reduce stress for parents and children, facilitating a more positive learning experience.

3. Access to a Wide Range of Subjects and Tutors

Whether your child needs help with math, science, language arts, or any other subject, you can find a qualified tutor online. Additionally, online tutoring platforms often offer filters to help you find the perfect tutor based on factors such as education, experience, teaching style, and reviews from other parents.

4. Improved Technological Skills

In today’s digital age, having strong technological skills is essential for success in education and the workplace. Children can become more comfortable using technology and navigating online platforms by participating in online tutoring sessions. This familiarity can help them excel in their current studies and better prepare them for future educational and professional endeavours.

5. Real-time Feedback and Progress Tracking

Online tutoring allows for real-time feedback, which can be incredibly valuable in helping students understand and correct their mistakes. This immediate response can help children grasp concepts more quickly and build their confidence.

Additionally, most online tutoring platforms offer progress tracking features, providing parents with regular updates on their child’s improvement and helping to identify areas that may require additional focus.

Final Thoughts

Online tutoring for kids offers numerous advantages. With these benefits in mind, it’s easy to see why an increasing number of parents are turning to online tutoring as a valuable educational resource for their children. If you haven’t already, consider trying online tutoring and see the positive impact it can have on your child’s academic success.

For online tutoring in North America, don’t hesitate to contact us at Prep Academy Tutors! We use a secure screen-sharing technology solution to enable students to learn, even at home. Call us to find your local tutor today!

5 Crucial Factors to Consider When Finding Online Tutors

As online learning becomes increasingly popular due to the pandemic, more students and parents rely on online tutoring to supplement their education. Although these digital educators can provide a flexible and convenient way for students to receive academic assistance and support, the different available options can make it overwhelming to find the right tutor. 

If you’re serious about getting your child the academic assistance they deserve, this article will discuss the crucial factors to consider when finding online tutors.

1. How Much Experience Do They Have?

When searching for online tutors, you must consider their experience. They must have the necessary qualifications and expertise to help your child succeed. You should also find those with experience in teaching the specific subject your child needs extra assistance. For instance, if your child struggles during math classes, you must find an educator with a strong mathematics background. 

Moreover, consider the tutor’s overall teaching experience. Find an educator who has worked with students at the same educational level and age as your child. A tutor with prior experience working with students in a similar situation to your child can better comprehend their learning needs and adapt their teaching techniques accordingly.

2. Do They Have Excellent Reviews?

When finding online tutors for your child, you must consider the quality of their reviews. They provide valuable insight into the tutor’s teaching style, ability to connect with students, and overall effectiveness. If a tutor has consistently positive reviews, they are likely a reliable and effective option. 

You must also look for reviews from individuals with similar learning needs to your child. If your child requires extra assistance in a particular area or has a unique learning style, students or parents with similar needs can help you find a suitable educator to meet your child’s learning requirements.

3. How Quick Do They Respond to You?

When selecting an online tutor, you must consider their availability and responsiveness. You want a tutor committed to providing timely and reliable support for your child’s academic needs. You’d also like someone flexible in scheduling their sessions. 

Besides their flexibility and responsiveness, you should consider their availability outside of scheduled tutoring sessions. Ask yourself if they can answer questions or provide additional support between sessions, as they can be invaluable in helping your child stay on track and overcome any academic challenges they may face.

4. Do They Fit Your Budget?

Besides the reputation and responsiveness, you should consider your budget when choosing an online tutor. Find professionals who offer reasonable rates and are transparent about their pricing structure.

You must also consider the sessions’ frequency and duration. That way, you can budget for tutoring costs and ensure your child gets the most value for your investment. 

5. What Does Your Child Think About Them?

While all the mentioned factors are crucial in selecting online tutors, you must also consider your child’s opinion about these professionals. This step is especially vital, as the child’s comfort level and rapport with the educator can significantly impact the tutoring session’s effectiveness. After the regular sessions, you must ask your child how they feel about them and if they’re comfortable working with the tutor. 

Also, you must consider your little one’s learning style and preferences. Determine if the educator’s teaching style aligns with your child’s learning style and if they can engage your child and make the learning process enjoyable. That way, your child can stay motivated to excel academically. 

Ensuring Successful Online Learning

Your child deserves quality educational assistance, even when learning online from their gadgets. You can find the best online tutors by considering their opinions, researching the educator’s background, and ensuring they fit your budget. 

If you’re looking for professional online tutors in North America, enroll them at Prep Academy Tutors! We offer personalized online tutoring services to help your little one thrive academically. Contact us now, and let’s make report card day stress-free! 

Why ChatGPT Cannot Replace Human Tutors

Tutoring has been an effective form of learning for years. It involves a student or a group of students receiving academic assistance from another student with a higher understanding of a particular subject. However, with the advent of artificial intelligence, some people believe that tutoring will soon become obsolete. ChatGPT, a language model created by OpenAI, is one such technology that has been touted as a replacement for tutoring. This article will examine why ChatGPT will never replace tutoring.

The Importance of Human Interaction

One of the most significant advantages of tutoring is the human interaction that it provides. Students who receive tutoring can interact with someone who understands their struggles and can relate to their difficulties. This human interaction can help students feel more comfortable asking questions and seeking help, leading to a more positive learning experience. ChatGPT, on the other hand, cannot provide human interaction like a tutor can. 

The Power of Empathy

Empathy is another reason why ChatGPT will never replace tutoring. When a student struggles with a particular subject, it can be challenging to understand their struggles if you have never experienced them. On the other hand, tutors have often experienced similar struggles and can offer empathy and understanding to the student they are tutoring. This empathy can be a powerful motivator for students, as it can help them feel like they are not alone in their struggles.

The Ability to Adapt

Another advantage of tutoring is the ability to adapt to the needs of each student. Every student has a unique learning style, and tutors can adapt their teaching methods to meet the needs of each student. For example, some students may learn better through visual aids, while others may prefer a more hands-on approach. Tutors can adjust their teaching methods to meet the needs of each student. ChatGPT, however, cannot adapt in the same way a human tutor can. 

The Importance of Feedback

Feedback is another critical component of tutoring. When students receive feedback from a tutor, they can gain valuable insights into their strengths and weaknesses. This feedback can help students identify areas where they need to improve and can provide them with a roadmap for success. ChatGPT, on the other hand, cannot provide feedback like a human tutor can. While ChatGPT may be able to provide answers to questions, it cannot provide feedback on a student’s understanding of a particular subject.

The Value of Personal Connection

Tutoring allows students to form personal connections with their tutors. These connections can be invaluable, as they can help students feel more connected to their learning experience. Tutors can serve as role models and mentors for students, providing guidance and support throughout their academic journey. ChatGPT, on the other hand, cannot form personal connections with students like a human tutor can.

Conclusion

In conclusion, while ChatGPT may be a powerful tool for answering questions and providing guidance, it will always remain the value of tutoring. Tutoring provides students with human interaction, empathy, adaptability, feedback, and personal connection essential for a positive learning experience. As technology continues to advance, it is important to remember that there are some things that machines cannot replace. Tutoring is one of those things.

Choose the best tutoring service for your academic needs with Prep Academy Tutors! Our personalized in-home and online tutoring services are tailored to meet your unique learning style. Don’t settle for anything less than the best to find your local tutor and start achieving your academic goals.

5 Tips on How to Motivate Children to Learn English

Learning English is a crucial skill that can benefit children greatly in their future academic and professional endeavours. However, motivating children to learn English can be a challenging task, especially when they do not see the immediate benefits of doing so. To make this easier, here are five tips on how to motivate children to learn English.

Make Learning English Fun

One of the most effective ways to motivate children to learn English is by making it fun. Children are more likely to be engaged and interested in activities that are enjoyable and entertaining. Incorporating games, music, and videos into English lessons can make the learning process more enjoyable and help children retain information better.

For example, parents can use educational apps and games that are specifically designed to teach English vocabulary and grammar. Some popular apps include Duolingo, Memrise, and Lingokids. These apps use gamification techniques to make learning English more engaging and interactive. Additionally, parents can encourage their children to watch English cartoons or movies with subtitles to improve their listening and comprehension skills.

Set Realistic Goals

Setting realistic goals can help children stay motivated and focused on their English learning journey. It is essential to set goals that are achievable and measurable to avoid frustration and disappointment.

Parents can set short-term goals such as learning ten new English words a week or completing a specific English exercise. Once the child achieves these goals, parents can reward them with praise, stickers, or small treats as a way of encouraging and motivating them to continue learning.

Use Positive Reinforcement

Positive reinforcement is a powerful motivator that can help children develop a positive attitude towards learning English. When a child makes progress in their English learning journey, parents should praise and encourage them. Positive feedback can boost a child’s confidence and encourage them to continue learning.

Parents can also use positive reinforcement techniques such as a reward system to motivate their children. For example, parents can create a sticker chart where the child earns a sticker for every completed English exercise or task. Once the child collects a certain number of stickers, they can receive a reward such as a toy or a fun activity.

Make English Relevant to Their Interests

Children are more likely to be motivated to learn English if they see the relevance of the language to their interests and hobbies. Parents can incorporate English into their child’s favourite activities, such as reading English books on their favourite subjects or playing English-language video games.

Additionally, parents can encourage their children to explore English-speaking cultures and countries. This can be done by watching travel documentaries, trying new foods, or learning about different customs and traditions. By making English relevant to their interests, children are more likely to see the value in learning the language.

Encourage Practice and Consistency

Learning a language takes time and consistent effort. Encouraging children to practice English regularly is essential for their progress and motivation. Setting aside time each day for English practice can help children develop a routine and make English learning a habit.

Parents can encourage their children to practice English by incorporating it into their daily activities. For example, parents can ask their children to read English labels while grocery shopping or practice English conversation during family meals. Additionally, parents can enrol their children in English language classes or tutoring sessions to provide consistent and structured learning opportunities.

Conclusion

Motivating children to learn English can be a challenging task, but by using these five tips, parents can help their children develop a positive attitude towards the language and stay motivated on their learning journey. By making English fun, setting realistic goals, using positive reinforcement, making English relevant to their interests, and encouraging practice and consistency, parents can help their children succeed in learning English.

If you are looking for the best tutoring service for your child, book a tutoring session with Prep Academy Tutors. We are proud to offer personalized in-home and online tutoring services. Find a local tutor today!

Key Considerations When Choosing an Online English Tutor

English has become indispensable for communication, education, and career growth in today’s rapidly globalizing world. As a parent, ensuring that your child is proficient in the English language is a long-term investment in their future success. Online English tutoring has become popular for parents seeking to provide their children with an engaging and effective learning experience. 

However, with many teachers and platforms, selecting the right online tutor for your child can take time and effort. In this article, we will explore the key factors you must consider when searching for your child’s online English coach.

Qualifications and Experience 

First and foremost, the tutor’s qualifications and experience should be a top consideration. A qualified tutor should have a relevant degree, such as a Bachelor’s or Master’s in English, Linguistics, or Education. Additionally, they should have a teaching certification, such as TEFL, TESOL, or CELTA. These certifications guarantee the tutor has been adequately trained to teach English as a second language.

Experience is another crucial aspect to consider. An experienced teacher will be better equipped to handle a variety of learning styles and challenges that may arise during the lessons. They can also better adapt their teaching methods to suit your child’s unique requirements. Look for tutors who have experience teaching students of the same age group as your child and have successfully improved their students’ English skills.

Teaching Style and Adaptability

Every child learns differently, and finding an online tutor with a teaching style that complements your child’s learning preferences is essential. Some children are visual learners, while others may benefit more from auditory or kinesthetic teaching methods. During your search, ask potential tutors about their teaching philosophy and methodology, and evaluate whether it aligns with your child’s needs.

Adaptability is another crucial factor to consider. A competent coach should be able to modify their lesson plans and teaching strategies to suit your child’s individual needs and learning pace. They should also be open to feedback and willing to make adjustments to maximize the effectiveness of their lessons.

Communication and Rapport

The rapport between your child and their teacher is vital for the success of the tutoring sessions. Your child should feel comfortable and encouraged to freely ask questions and express their concerns. A coach who can establish a positive and nurturing learning environment will significantly impact your child’s motivation and progress.

Strong communication skills are crucial to building a good rapport with your child. During initial interactions with potential online tutors, pay attention to their listening skills and ability to explain complex concepts clearly and concisely. Select a teacher who demonstrates patience, empathy, and a genuine interest in your child’s growth and success.

Availability and Flexibility

Finding a teacher with compatible availability and flexibility is essential to ensuring that your child receives regular, consistent tutoring sessions. A tutor who can accommodate your child’s schedule will minimize disruptions to their routine and prevent them from feeling overwhelmed.

Additionally, consider the time zone of the coach if they are located in another country. It can impact the scheduling of lessons and the tutor’s availability during critical exam periods or when your child requires additional support.

Technology and Platform

The online platform used for tutoring should be user-friendly and compatible with your child’s learning preferences. Ensure the tutor is well-versed in using the forum and can effectively integrate various tools, such as video, audio, chat, and document sharing, to create an engaging learning experience.

Your child’s online safety should also be a priority. Choose a teacher with a secure platform with stringent privacy policies and data encryption to protect your child’s personal information.

Conclusion

Finding the right online tutor for your child requires thorough research and consideration of various factors. By prioritizing a teacher’s qualifications, experience, teaching style, adaptability, communication skills, availability, and the technology they use, you can ensure that your child receives the customized and effective English tutoring they deserve. Investing in your child’s English proficiency will undoubtedly open up opportunities for their future academic and professional success.

Are you tired of watching your child struggle with their academics, especially in their English class? Seek the help of Prep Academy Tutors. We offer personalized in-home and online tutoring in North America that cater to your child’s learning style and needs. Our team of experienced tutors will work with your child to develop a customized learning plan to help them achieve their academic goals. Do not wait any longer; give your child the gift of academic success with Prep Academy Tutors!

Online Learning Could Be Here to Stay in Ontario

In Ontario, it has been over a year since students started pursuing their education online. But now that more and more people in Canada are being vaccinated and schools at all levels and in all provinces and territories are preparing a return to in-person classes in the fall, it may appear as though the days of online learning are ending.

The more likely result, however, is a hybrid approach that a hybrid approach is the way of the near future. However much parents and students alike might be dreaming of having things go back to normal, online learning might be here to stay in Canada.

In Manitoba, for instance, the government is actively working to enable universities and colleges to develop more sophisticated and engaging remote-learning models with the intent of improving the quality of online learning now and in years to come.

Manitoba recently made public its better education starts today (BEST) document, as well as the contents of the Education Modernization Act, and the K-12 review. BEST is a list of provincial takeaways from the past year, and it looks favourably upon online learning. According to the document, “Expanding access and capacity for high-quality remote learning improves our resilience moving out of the pandemic and provides greater flexibility.”

The hurdles of online learning will be tough, though not impossible, to overcome, and our professional online tutors can help.

The Bumpy Acceleration of Online Learning

This past school year has seen more drop-outs and lower student engagement and performance rates. Not only that, but stress, anxiety, and rates of depression have increased among students and teachers alike. These statistics have much to do, of course, with the pandemic — mental well-being has been hard hit throughout the country — but online-learning on its own is also partly to blame.

If online learning is here to stay, government and school boards will need to devise proactive ways of improving the quality of remote education, and parents need to search out online tutoring tips that can help kids keep learning under remote conditions. Doing so may mean drawing from best practices and solutions outside of Canada.

A case can be made that online learning is an inevitable step in education, and that the COVID-19 pandemic has simply accelerated the move toward online learning models. Student demand for remote learning has greatly increased over the past school year, and a hybrid online and in person learning model will, ideally, combine the benefits of in person learning with the benefits of online learning.

Professional online tutoring in Toronto and other Canadian cities has been one example of this, helping students get the extra help they need from the safety of their own homes.

Can Online and In-Person Education Be Complementary?

The benefits of in person learning are well documented. An in-class environment is far less distracting than an at home learning environment, where students are often free to do what they please.

In-person learning also makes it easier to develop close relationships with teachers. Students can better learn from the body language of a teacher when they share a classroom together. Students in class have easier access to school materials.

Students also benefit socially by interacting with other students in class, doing group projects, and spending time with students at recess and in hallways or the cafeteria. Indeed, the social benefits of in person learning are not to be underestimated.

This may be why students who complete their course in classroom settings do so at a much higher rate than students who learn remotely, and some students feel more comfortable and accustomed to learning in a classroom than elsewhere.

Credit: Katerina Holmes Via Pexels

But there are also many benefits to online learning, especially when supplemented by tutoring in Hamilton or Toronto that gives kids one-on-one learning time with an educator.

With online learning, students who live far away from campus don’t have to spend hours commuting to and from school grounds five days a week. Students with disabilities can sidestep the difficulties inherent to navigating campus facilities, many of which do not adequately meet their needs.

Sick students who by showing up to class risk making other students sick can participate in class (if they’re not too sick) from home. Mature students with jobs or families have an easier time fitting online learning into their busy schedules.

Online learning may benefit students at the post-secondary and post-graduate levels most. One recent study has shown that MBA students benefit from online learning in a variety of ways.

According to a case study in which more than 100 students enrolled in prestigious online MBA programs were asked to share their perceptions and thoughts on the pros and cons of online learning, a commonly shared sentiment among the students was that they highly valued the experience of virtual teaming because it prepares them for today’s global business environment.

Online Learning: A Parent’s Perspective

It’s not only students who recognize the benefits of remote learning, however: parents also see value in online learning — a fact that may come as a surprise for parents who are burned out after a year of Zoom school.

The difficulties of parenting students who learn remotely are well documented. It has been remarkably difficult for parents to provide educational support to their children while working full or part time jobs. However, parenting students who learn remotely does have some benefits.

With online learning, parents have more time to spend with their children; family time has increased. Not only that, but parents — especially parents who help their children build structure and routine — enjoy the pleasure of watching their children develop more confidence in their ability to work alone.

Parents of adolescents enjoy watching how their children’s increased confidence in their learning abilities has in turn helped them discover themselves. More flexibility in their children’s schooling has helped parents better understand how their child’s unique learning styles interact with the curriculum.

Perhaps the hybrid in-person and online learning model of the future will benefit education in ways that were unimaginable before the onset of the COVD-19 pandemic. It is likely, however, that some adjustment will be needed, and tutoring can play a significant role in this process.

If you want to find out more about how tutoring services can help manage the transitions between online and offline learning, get in touch with Prep Academy Tutors today.

Spring Cleaning Your Child’s Digital Learning Space

Before March, 2020, staying organized for school at the K-12 level largely meant keeping papers, textbooks, and school supplies organized in binders, backpacks, lockers, and desks. Now with online schooling, much organizing is done digitally, on computers. To stay prepared for online learning, students must learn how to keep their computers organized and clean.

Healthy (digital) organizational habits are essential for online learning. Such habits keep kids focused and in charge of their studies. Computers can quickly become a disorganized mess of intangible documents that get lost in the digital void.

The sooner a student learns healthy digital habits, the better. These habits will set them up for success now and in the long run, in school and in the workforce. Staying digitally organized can mean the difference between meeting a deadline and missing it by a week.

Organizing PDFs and organizing physical papers are very different endeavours, however. Parents who grew up in an analogue world are sometimes at a loss when it comes to teaching their children healthy digital habits because their children are more familiar with digital devices than they are. To them, laptops and smart phones are second nature.

But here are some of the essential online learning tips and hygiene hacks that will make learning easier and studying less stressful.

Backing Up Your Computer

Anyone familiar with the state of education in Ontario knows that for months students have no choice but to do their schooling online. For students doing online learning at school and/or with one-on-one tutors (many students in Ontario have sought help from tutoring services in Toronto and Mississauga and Hamilton), the first step to ensure an organized computer is to back it up.

Backing up a computer is the digital equivalent of photocopying documents and safely keeping them in storage. Doing so will ensure that if a computer faces problems, its documents and data will be safe.

Those who are at a loss for how to back up a computer can seek help from IT experts online. But learning how to back up a computer on your own isn’t as daunting a task as it may at first appear.

Backing up a Mac is different than backing up a PC. For both, however, there are three primary options:

1. Back up to an external drive
2. Back up to the Cloud
3. Back up over the Internet

Back Up a Computer to an External Drive

Backing up a computer to an external drive requires using a computer’s built-in back up features to upload files to an external USB hard drive.

The process is quick and affordable, but keep in mind that an external USB hard drive is a physical object that, like all other physical objects, can be stolen, lost, or destroyed.

Back Up a Computer to the Cloud

“The Cloud” refers to servers accessible online, as well as the databases and software that run on these servers. Backing up on the Cloud is like backing up the computer to an external USB hard drive. The difference is that the Cloud is a digital thing that can’t get lost or broken.

Backing up a computer to the Cloud is often free if you need to back up only a few gigabytes of space. Backing up a lot of data usually costs money and the process can be more complicated than backing up the same number of gigabytes to an external USB hard drive.

Back up Over the Internet

Different online services are available to those who would prefer to back up their computer to the Internet. These services, which typically require a monthly fee, automatically back up your data and files to the server’s web storage.

The benefits of backing up a computer to the Internet are similar to the benefits of backing up a computer to the Cloud. The downside is that backing up your computer to the internet typically costs money.

If you want to be extra safe, you can protect your files and data by using all three methods.

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How to Neatly Organize a Computer

Beyond backing up a computer, there are simple ways of keeping computers neat and tidy and ideal for online learning or tutoring. There’s no one size fits all method of organizing, but typically developing healthy digital learning habits starts with organizing documents into folders.

Folders

Making folders to separate schoolwork is always a good first step. To separate schoolwork or online learning from everything else, create a folder called “School,” and organize this folder into subfolders according to course and semester, for instance. Then further organize each course according to week and/or assignment.

School à 2021 Spring Semester à English à Week 8 à Midterm paper à 2^nd draft

Doing this will ensure that kids never lose track of assignments, and makes it easier for you to keep tabs on their progress.

Avoid Clutter

Avoiding clutter on your computer starts with sorting documents of all kinds into their proper folders. It also means keeping your desktop screen clean. Doing so demands organized digital instincts and knee-jerk reactions that may take some effort to cultivate.

Rather than unthinkingly dragging a PDF that you download from an email onto your already cluttered desktop, for instance, immediately drag the PDF into its proper folder upon downloading it. Leave only a few, if any, items on your desktop screen.

Organize the Web

Keeping a clean computer involves more than just keeping a clean desktop and a simple folder filing system. It also means bookmarking websites according to their purpose.

If a student visits one website for school, another for sports updates, and another for their part-time job, for instance, they’re best off sorting these websites into corresponding bookmarks: School, Sports, Job.

Keep the Computer Physically Clean

Computers themselves are physical objects, and physical objects get dirty. Unlike a car, however, you can’t clean a computer with soap or water. Instead, you can treat it with cleaning products designed for computers (as well as tablets and smart phones).

Make sure you check a cleaning product to see if it’s computer-friendly before using it on a computer. Treating a computer with products not meant for computers can cause serious damage.

And don’t forget to sanitize the keys. Research done by the University of Arizona found that the average desktop has 400 times more bacteria than the average toilet seat. Cleaning the keys with the right tools not only benefits the computer, it also can prevent you from getting sick.

How to Prepare Kids for Future School Closures

Due to the pandemic, many students have fallen behind, lost interest, or even left school altogether, and despite the herculean efforts of parents and education professionals, grades and attendance have gone down while drop-out rates have gone up.

But the situation is not all doom and gloom. With more and more vaccinations becoming available, and new strategies for reopening schools, there appears to be a bit of light at the end of the tunnel: many schools either have partly reopened or are set to partly reopen soon.

Doing so may not be as dangerous as one thinks. Recent studies indicate that countries where schools have remained closed have not had more success at reducing the spread of COVID than countries where schools have opened.

If reopening schools proves to be relatively safe, the return to the classroom will mark the end of a uniquely difficult period in history and the beginning of a new era — the “new normal” — that will ideally empower children to catch up in school and excel.

What Will Schools Look Like in the New Normal?

It’s tough to predict what the new normal will look like for education, but experts recommend cautious optimism. Given the slow rollout of the vaccine, the fact that children are last to be vaccinated, and the new strains of the virus that are emerging across the globe, the new normal may not be as different as one would hope. And even if the most optimistic forecasts are true, students will still struggle with catching up.

Schools will have to go the extra mile to get their students back on track. Post-pandemic strategies at the K-12 may include spending extra time on complex areas, homing in on essential parts of the curriculum while abandoning others, and combining more than one subject into one class.

Different schools will have different strategies, of course, but all will share the same goal: make up for what has been missed.

One thing that is certain is schools will adhere to strict health policies designed to prevent health risks. The Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has put forward these guidelines for preventing community spread:

• Prepare
• Teach and reinforce healthy hygiene
• Develop information sharing systems
• Intensify cleaning and disinfectants
• Monitor for absenteeism
• Assess group gatherings and events—consider postponing non-critical gatherings and events
• Require sick students and staff stay home
• Establish procedures for someone becoming sick at school

This means that masks and social distancing procedures will probably remain in effect, and classrooms and hallways will likely be equipped with hand-washing stations. Students won’t share as many supplies as they did before the pandemic, and recess, lunchtime, and gym will be subject to restrictions. Classrooms and resources will have to be sanitized throughout the day.

School-based meals will become a more common resource. Students will have to remain socially distant inside and outside. To prevent overcrowding, students and staff will take turns coming to school and staying home. Students’ physical health will of course be monitored closely — so, too, will their mental health.

If all goes well, kindergarteners will no longer need to learn phonetics online, high school seniors will get to tour universities and colleges in person, and teachers will have the privilege of getting to know their students face-to-face, without a screen between them.

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How Parents Can Get Their Children Back on Track

Still, adjusting to the pandemic has required incredible fortitude and sacrifice. Parents have needed to be more proactive about their kids’ education than ever before. Without the routine offered by in-person schooling, they have had to ensure their kids adhere to a productive schedule, and they have had to minimize distractions without depriving their kids of enjoyment.

Many have had to do all of this (and more) while simultaneously working full or part time jobs and taking care of other family members as well as their own health both physical and mental.

The new normal may lessen the burden on parents who throughout the pandemic have struggled to get by, but extra resources will still be necessary. The online learning support resources that Prep Academy Tutors has made available will continue to be there to help, including our online tutoring in Ontario and in other Canadian provinces.

The vaccination process in the United States has been significantly faster than it has in Canada, and we have endeavored to keep pace with these developments through our tutoring services in New York by allowing for in-person tutoring and learning pods in communities where it is safe to do so.

We believe that these resources have proved to be beneficial to students, parents, and teachers over the past year, and we hope they will continue to provide vital support as schools reopen.

Cautious Optimism Going Forward

With the onset of the new normal, parents and children have every right to breathe a collective sigh of relief. But there are reasons why experts are advising caution.

Despite the comprehensive safety measures and guidelines the CDC and other health organizations have put forward, there is a chance that reopening schools will increase the spread of COVID-19, in which case schools will close again and parents and kids will return to the same position they’ve been in for the past year.

To prepare kids for the possibility of future school closures, it’s important that parents talk to them about what closure will entail, and how they can best prepare.

Preparing for the Possibility of School Closure

Last March, when schools and offices were just beginning to close and public health policies designed to prevent the spread of COVID took effect, it was impossible to predict how long the pandemic would take or what it would mean for education. No one was prepared for the many challenges lockdowns would pose to day-to-day life.

Since then, parents have learned how to provide their children an education in spite of the difficulties. This means that, if schools do close again, parents and kids are far more prepared to deal with the consequences than they were one year ago.

Tutors have been lifesavers for students of all ages. Canadian parents who’ve sought help from Toronto tutors as well as Americans who’ve sought help from similar resources in the States, are by now quite familiar with how beneficial these resources are.

Resources like learning pods will remain available in the short- and long-term future, regardless of whether or not schools open or close again. Parents can help their children understand that in a world with an uncertain future these resources are a constant they can count on.

The future of school is up in the air, but tutors will always be at the ready. If you want to find out more about the tutoring options in your city, or to learn more about our approach to tutoring, get in touch with Prep Academy Tutors today.