Choosing and Using a Virtual Tutoring Platform

Virtual tutoring can lead to strong academic outcomes, but it requires planning.

• Accountability: Families often take on greater responsibility for monitoring student participation and resolving technical issues.
• Connection: Even students comfortable with technology may struggle to build meaningful relationships online.
• Time Constraints: Wi-Fi disruptions can lengthen sessions. To stay on track, plan for shorter sessions with fewer transitions.

When selecting a platform, confirm it offers the following core capabilities:

• Live video conferencing with camera and microphone functionality
• Live text chat to support students without camera/mic access
• Collaborative whiteboard for shared content visualization
• Two-way screen sharing so both tutors and students can share views
• Real-time document collaboration for interactive feedback
• Session recording with secure storage for review by supervisors or families
• Asynchronous access to recordings or transcripts
• Accessibility features, such as captions and dial-in options
• Role-based access controls to protect privacy and provide tutor moderation tools

Beyond functionality, consider the following:

• Training: What level of assistance will tutors and students require to use the platform effectively?
• Ease of Use: Does the platform's interface provide all participants with an intuitive and user-friendly experience?
• Accessibility: Does the platform comply with UDL and web accessibility standards?
• Simplicity: Is the interface minimal and free from distractions?
• Technology Barriers: Will the platform work on low-bandwidth networks or older devices?

Tip: Test platforms under real-world conditions using the devices and internet connections your students will use. 

To lead virtual sessions, tutors must:

• Use the best available tech: Prefer wired internet (Ethernet), bright lighting, and external microphones or webcams.
• Know the platform: Test features in advance and be ready to support students as needed.
• Create an engaging presence: Look into the camera and set up a professional background that is not distracting.
• Prepare beforehand: Load materials before the session and close unrelated programs.
• Manage time: Use a visible timer to stay on pace.

Ensure students are ready for virtual learning by:

• Providing detailed setup instructions for logging in and joining sessions.
• Sharing schedules in advance with students and families.
• Setting explicit norms for participation and behavior from the outset.
• Keeping interfaces consistent so students always know where to find resources.
• Demonstrating features through screen-sharing instead of only explaining.
• Modeling new tasks step-by-step, whether using tech or engaging in academic work.

Tutors can improve delivery by:

• Rehearsing sessions and reviewing recordings for improvement.
• Displaying an agenda to help students track session flow.
• Preparing clear talking points instead of reading a script.
• Making thinking visible by modeling problem-solving or note-taking.
• Incorporating multimedia (e.g., images, videos) with appropriate accessibility features like captions.
• Presenting media via screen share to reduce distractions and tech strain on students.
• Sharing follow-up resources such as helpful websites or explainer videos to reinforce learning.

Virtual Tutoring Best Practices Checklist

• Allow extra wait time for student responses.
• Prioritize student voice with open-ended questions and follow-ups.
• Offer multiple modes of engagement (e.g., chat, whiteboard, verbal).
• Check for understanding regularly with quick questions.
• Include practice opportunities for immediate application.
• Monitor student work through screen-sharing or collaborative documents.
• Provide timely, specific feedback.
• Track and display progress using brief assessments.
• Create purposeful student pairs based on data for small-group work.