The numerous different tutoring services on offer do not make it easy for us when we have to choose a German tutor. Various aspects should definitely be examined and considered more closely before finally choosing a tutoring provider. Only then can you be sure that you are taking the right path if you want to arrange tutoring in the German language for yourself or your child. If the tutoring is specifically adapted to the respective needs, learning success will not be long in coming. You should check the following points for yourself or together with your child:
1. private tutoring or a professional learning institute
Learning institutes offer German tutoring, which is provided by experienced and professional teachers. However, these services are often offered exclusively on the school's own premises and in groups. Students or independent teachers offer one-to-one tuition, which can also be provided in your own home on request. If you would like to take advantage of tutoring in German, think about the form and environment in which you or your child can make better learning progress.
2. group lessons or individual coaching
Learning institutes offer tutoring in all subjects in smaller groups of between two and twelve people. The size of a group can have a strong influence on the learning dynamic and often also has an impact on the student's own learning progress. This influence can be positive (e.g. motivating, encouraging), but can also appear negative, e.g. due to distraction, excessive demands or boredom. In a group, a tutor is less able to respond to the needs of individual participants.
Learning in a group is more engaging and varied for some participants. Mutual support promotes progress enormously. Especially when learning a language, oral tasks, group learning games and exercises are often the be-all and end-all for internalizing what has been learned. Group courses are highly recommended, especially when preparing for an exam or school transfer.
One-to-one tuition offers tutors the opportunity to address specific learning needs and gaps in knowledge in a more targeted way. This prevents overload and boredom - both of which are paralyzing prerequisites for successful learning. Those who are easily distracted by classmates should also opt for individual tutoring.
3. the organization of lessons
German tutoring can be organized and held in a wide variety of ways. Group courses offer a wider range of teaching methods than individual lessons. Possible methods include
Think about which learning methods you or your child respond well to. Ask the tutoring providers in advance about the teaching methods and lesson organization.
4. learning via the Internet
The digital possibilities are also appreciated and used by some tutoring providers: Numerous tutoring institutes and tutors offer their individual lessons via Skype, Teamviewer and other online channels. Tutoring sessions can be held anywhere and at any time where there is an internet connection. Anyone who is very busy at work, at home, at university or at school will appreciate online German tutoring in their own living room or office.
5. recessions and feedback from former learners
If the points mentioned above have been clarified and you have therefore already made a pre-selection regarding tutoring services, it is highly likely that there is still a wide range of tutoring providers to consider. If this is the case, read feedback from former German tutoring students of the providers. What do they say about the lessons? Did the tutoring help them and achieve the desired learning progress? You can find these reviews on the respective Facebook and Google+ accounts or on the websites of the schools and teachers in question.
6. the proximity
Another valid argument for or against a tutoring service is distance. Hardly anyone wants to travel long distances. Especially if you are looking for a tutoring service for your child, proximity to home or school will be one of the most important arguments when choosing a tutor. If there is no suitable German tutoring service in your immediate vicinity, online tutoring may be a good alternative. The large Swiss education portal Ausbildung-Weiterbildung.ch provides a helpful regional overview of the best and most important providers so that you don't miss or overlook any offers.
7. the finances
Unfortunately, the financial aspect is often the most decisive criterion when choosing a school. Unfortunately, cheap does not necessarily mean good. It is therefore advisable to clarify the above points in advance before considering the financial aspect as a selection criterion. Tutoring that suits your learning style or that of your child may be a little more expensive, but will bring the desired learning progress much faster than a cheaper offer.
Professional tutoring tailored to individual needs sometimes comes at a price - but it's always worth it.
The easiest way to find the most important offers for German tutoring is via the largest Swiss education platform Ausbildung-Weiterbildung.ch. You can use the online inquiry form to request information documents directly from the desired German tutoring providers or to arrange a personal consultation.
Linda, deine Weiterbildungsfinderin