Purpose: The matrix and following definitions and examples help guide the decision between needs-based, curriculum-aligned, or universal tutoring. Read the matrix and the following descriptions and examples to determine how to best prioritize students for your program.
| Factor | Needs-Based | Curriculum-Aligned | Universal |
| Goal | Address learning gaps | Reinforce classroom learning | Provide equitable access |
| Target Audience | Struggling students | Students in specific subjects/grades | All students |
| Resources | Limited, targeted | Moderate, subject-focused | High, broadly distributed |
| Impact Measurement | Growth in individual performance | Aligned with classroom outcomes | Broad engagement and equity (e.g., impact data disaggregated) |
| Implementation Feasibility | Smaller scale; targeted logistics | Integrated with classroom schedules | Requires robust infrastructure |
Needs-Based Tutoring
Example: A program targets students performing below grade level in reading.
When is this the right choice?
- There are limited resources and a need to address significant learning gaps.
- The goal is to raise the performance of the lowest-achieving students.
How do I prioritize students?
- Data-Driven Identification: Use diagnostic assessments, standardized test scores, or teacher recommendations to identify struggling students.
- Prioritize Equity: Focus on students from underserved populations, such as ELLs, students with IEPs, or schools with limited resources.
- Evaluate Resources: Ensure sufficient tutors, time, and tools are available for targeted interventions.
1. Needs-Based Tutoring
Example: A program targets students performing below grade level in reading.
When is this the right choice?
- There are limited resources and a need to address significant learning gaps.
- The goal is to raise the performance of the lowest-achieving students.
How do I prioritize students?
- Data-Driven Identification: Use diagnostic assessments, standardized test scores, or teacher recommendations to identify struggling students.
- Prioritize Equity: Focus on students from underserved populations, such as ELLs, students with IEPs, or schools with limited resources.
- Evaluate Resources: Ensure sufficient tutors, time, and tools are available for targeted interventions.
2. Curriculum-Aligned Tutoring
Example: A program supplements classroom instruction in math for all students in a specific grade and unit.
When is this the right choice?
- The goal is to enhance understanding of key concepts and improve classroom performance.
The program is designed to complement and reinforce school curricula.
How do I prioritize curriculum?
- Align with Standards: Focus on subjects or skills critical to academic success (e.g., foundational literacy or math fluency).
- Assess Curriculum Gaps: Identify topics or areas where students struggle and require reinforcement.
- Engage Teachers: Collaborate with classroom teachers to integrate tutoring content with ongoing lessons.
3. Universal Tutoring
Example: A district-wide program offers tutoring to all students for enrichment and support.
When is this the right choice?
- The program aims to provide equitable access to academic support for every student.
- There is sufficient capacity to scale the program across the student population.
What do I need to consider?
- Assess Feasibility: Confirm funding, staffing, and space adequately serve all students.
- Promote Equity: Design the program to be accessible to all students while providing additional resources for students with greater needs.
- Monitor Participation: Use data to track attendance and engagement to identify if certain groups are underrepresented.