Different Types of Tuition in Singapore

It seems that tuition is becoming more prevalent in Singapore. Recent research indicates that over 95% of Singaporean students have some sort of tuition throughout a typical school year. Tuition can not only help a student who is struggling to get over the hump and finally learn a subject that has challenged them, but it can also help with other aspects of learning such as the testing process. Some students may know the material, but just do not test well. Tuition by a proper tutor can help improve overall test scores as well as curriculum knowledge.

There are three main type of tuitions: One on One (or Individual), Group, and Consultation. Here are some specific details about each of these along with the pros and cons of them. 

One on One - Individual

This is arguably the most effective form of tuition. It is also the most expensive since it is usually based on an hourly rate. The rate will differ depending on if you select a part-time tutor, a full-time tutor, a teacher tutor, or a student tutor. Part-time tutors are typically professionals who may have other jobs that they do for their full-time income. Thus they may only be available for tutoring on nights or weekends. A full-time tutor chooses to tutor as their full-time employment, therefore they will likely have more flexibility in the days and hours they are available. A teacher tutor is a wonderful option as they are already experienced in teaching and likely know the curriculum and material very well. But since they are full-time teachers, they may also only be available during limited hours for tutoring. Student tutors may not be professionals, however if they are headed towards a career in education they may be very well versed already in the effective art of tutoring. Additionally they will be closer in age to the student and thus will be able to share in rapport and understanding of what the student may be feeling related to the whole learning process. Any option is a good one, as long as they are a good fit for your student and they are successful in helping them learn the material. 

One on one tuition will only be effective if either the student is participatory, meaning they ask questions and engage in dialogue to enhance their learning; or if the tutor themselves is an expert in tutoring and has an established skill-set that is capable of reaching the struggling student and get them to participate in the learning process. One on One tuition usually occurs in the student’s home. It is especially helpful for a student who feels completely lost in school, or those who have trouble learning in social environments. One negative aspect, besides the high price tag, is that while the student is actually working on their homework or lessons the tutor is sitting idly, costing the parents more in terms of hourly pay for the tutor. There are arguments amongst some students on whether or not individual tuition is beneficial, but research shows that test scores go up exponentially when a student is really struggling in a particular subject and gets one on one tuition.

Group

Group tuition is typically done in learning centres. Several students are grouped together by subject, level, and stream. Class size can range from 8 all the way up to 60. Be aware of the questions to ask a learning centre before entering into a tuition agreement. Ask about class size, how students will be grouped, and their success rate and any guarantees.

Some parents may fear that a group setting won’t give the student enough support in their tutoring. However, if the student is not completely lost in the subject, and just needs some help to better understand the material, a group setting is an ideal way to motivate the student by providing competition amongst peers. It is important to know your child and determine what setting is best for them to excel in. If the tutor in the group setting is a dynamic, inspiring presenter then the student will likely greatly benefit from the experience. If the tutor is lackluster, then the student may feel like they are once again failing at even tutoring and it can create a downward spiral that is not at all related to the student’s abilities to perform. Choose a group setting or learning centre carefully by checking references and testimonials.

Individual Consultation

Consultation tuition occurs in the tutor’s home. The group size is usually less than five students. The tutor will give each student one on one coaching while the others work on their homework or tutoring exercises. One benefit is that the student only spends time working on specific classwork that they need assistance with and the lecture scene typically found in group sessions is not present. Another benefit is that the student will have time to work on their coursework and have to think through the problems before they will have their time with the tutor to ask questions. This may help them solve problems on their own. However, if the student won’t ask questions or is so completely lost in the course then they may need the help of a one on one tutor.

Tuition has been shown to help students improve up to 3 grades in a period of 3-6 months. If you find that this is not the case then you have likely chosen the wrong format for your child’s specific needs. Looking into one of the other tuition methods listed above can help remedy the situation and both you and your student will feel the relief of things starting to come together. If you are exploring a tutor for your student, ask friends or use a tuition agency. Typically the cost of engaging a tuition agency is taken from the tutor’s first month’s tuition fee, thereby not costing you anything to find a suitable tutor program.