Pro tip: Find the tools and techniques that work best for you and your students, then stick with them! Consistency builds confidence for both tutor and learner.
Choose Your Online Platform
Many tutors use a video chat alongside a virtual whiteboard. Find what works for you and your students.
Video Conferencing Options
LessonSpace
Built-in through TutorCruncher. Includes whiteboard, screen sharing, and document tools.
Zoom
Popular video platform. Good for screen sharing and breakout rooms.
Google Meet
Simple, browser-based. Easy for families without app downloads.
Virtual Whiteboard Tools
LessonSpace Whiteboard
Integrated whiteboard with drawing tools, shapes, and text.
Jamboard
Google's collaborative whiteboard. Free with Google account.
Miro / FigJam
Advanced whiteboarding for visual learners and complex diagrams.
Recommendation: Start with LessonSpace since it's already integrated with TutorCruncher. Add other tools as needed based on your teaching style.
Planning Your Session
Preparation is key for smooth online sessions. Plan ahead to make the most of your time together.
Before the Session
- Review student's profile and previous session notes
- Prepare materials and upload documents to your platform
- Test your audio, video, and internet connection
- Have a backup plan if technology fails (phone number, alternative platform)
- Set up your workspace with good lighting and minimal background distractions
Session Structure Tips
- Warm-up (2-3 min): Greet the student, ask how they're doing, build rapport
- Review (5 min): Briefly go over last session's material or homework
- New content (20-25 min): Teach new concepts with interactive activities
- Practice (10-15 min): Guided practice with feedback
- Wrap-up (5 min): Summarize key points, assign homework, preview next session
Keep Students Engaged
Change activities every 10-15 minutes to maintain attention.
Share your screen, use diagrams, and show examples.
Let students write on the whiteboard and share their screen.
Check for understanding frequently. Don't just lecture.
Engagement & Motivation
Online learning can be challenging. Here's how to keep students motivated and focused.
Building Connection Online
- Camera on: Encourage both you and the student to keep cameras on when possible
- Use their name: Address students by name frequently
- Celebrate wins: Acknowledge progress and effort, not just correct answers
- Be patient: Allow extra time for responses (there may be lag)
- Show enthusiasm: Your energy sets the tone for the session
When Students Seem Distracted
Check In
Ask if they need a quick break or if something is on their mind.
Gamify It
Turn problems into challenges or use online quiz tools.
Give Control
Let them choose the next activity or take over screen sharing.
Recognize Collective Challenges
Online learning fatigue is real. Students may be spending many hours on screens for school. Be understanding and flexible:
- Allow short stretch breaks during longer sessions
- Mix screen-based activities with paper-based work
- Be patient with technical difficulties
- Adjust expectations based on student's energy level
Your First Session with a Student
First impressions matter. Set the stage for a positive tutoring relationship.
Break the (Virtual) Ice
- Introduce yourself warmly — share a bit about your background
- Ask the student about their interests, hobbies, or favorite subjects
- Explain how sessions will work and what they can expect
- Set expectations together — what are their goals?
- Make it okay to make mistakes — learning is the goal!
Conducting an Initial Assessment
Before diving into content, understand where your student is starting from:
- Review any information provided by the coordinator about the student
- Ask the student (and/or parent) about areas they find challenging
- Use a diagnostic assessment to identify specific gaps
- Take notes on learning style preferences (visual, auditory, hands-on)
- Document initial observations to track progress over time
Online Security Tips
Keep yourself and your students safe during online sessions.
Best Practices
- Use password-protected meeting rooms when possible
- Never share personal contact information with students
- Use school/tutoring email, not personal email
- Be mindful of what's visible in your background
- Don't record sessions without explicit permission
- Report any concerning behavior to your coordinator immediately
If Something Goes Wrong
Technical issues: Have a backup plan ready. Share your phone number with parents (not students) for emergencies. If video fails, you can continue via phone while troubleshooting.
Inappropriate behavior: End the session immediately and contact your regional coordinator. Document what happened.
Helpful Resources
Questions? Reach out to your regional coordinator or the Sunshine Team for support with online tutoring challenges.