Research shows that well-designed tutoring programs increase academic achievement for elementary school students. Students show improvement in mathematics and reading. Teachers report improvements in social skills and in behavior. Students are more motivated and confident and show improved personal development. Peer tutoring methods (pairing of high- and low-achieving students) result in positive effects for both students.
Program models vary, presenting a challenge for researchers who measure the effectiveness of tutoring. To gauge the effects of tutoring, researchers need specific data to measure. Programs contribute to research and positive effects for children when they track participation and progress over long periods.
A well-designed program utilizing best practices results in positive effects. The most effective tutoring programs use student assessments, individualized plans and trained tutors. Tutors receive ongoing training and support and teachers maintain consistent oversight. A good tutor-student match adds to the prospects for success. Out-of-school tutoring and one-on-one tutoring result in the best outcomes. A well-designed program uses the principles of learning to engage students and to structure tutoring sessions.
Tutoring is provided after school, during school, at community centers or tutoring businesses and in the student's home. Tutors may be volunteers, university students, teachers, the students' peers or certified professional tutors. While the tutoring sites and providers may vary, the consistent use of best practices results in positive effects.
Providers of tutoring services, whether nonprofit or for profit, should conduct background checks on all tutors and should be in compliance with safety guidelines. If the service is utilizing a well-designed, best practices method, its program description and plan will be available for review.