Sylvan Tutoring Goes Online

Q: Do online students have ‘real’ teachers?

A: Yes. Sylvan's online students have ‘real’ teachers to whom they talk throughout the entire lesson, using a hands-free headset. This way, students can ask questions and get instant feedback from teachers. And, students write on a white board, using a digital pencil and writing pad to write questions and answers, which are immediately displayed on the teacher’s computer screen too. This allows the teacher to watch the student while he works; for instance, as he goes through the steps of a math problem, or the writing of a paragraph. Along the way, the teacher can offer advice, praise and encouragement.

Q: Does online tutoring require the student to have special equipment?

A: The only equipment required is a personal computer with Windows software and an Internet Service Provider. We provide the rest of the tools to create a live interactive learning experience.

Q: What academic programs does Sylvan's live online tutoring program offer?

A: Sylvan's online program offers personal tutoring programs to meet a variety of needs. Students can improve essential skills like math, reading and writing. Or, they can prepare for specific tests: the ACT, the SAT, and state tests.

Q: If my child is enrolled in an online program, where do I go for administrative assistance?

A: The Sylvan Learning Center staff can answer any questions you have, discuss your child’s progress, and help you schedule upcoming tutoring sessions.

Q: What are the benefits of online learning over traditional classroom tutoring?

A: In a word, convenience. Sylvan's online program can be used anywhere a PC computer with Internet access is available.

Q: Are there some types of learners for whom online tutoring is particularly suited?

A: Older kids who are somewhat self-directed and comfortable with technology excel at online tutoring. Also, children with attention deficit disorders tend to respond well to the lack of surrounding distractions afforded by online tutoring, as the sound is piped directly into their ears. Older students who are significantly behind their peers often feel more comfortable with online tutoring, because they don’t have to reveal their age gap.

Q: What family circumstances make online tutoring a good choice?

A: Online tutoring is ideal for families with competing schedules, or for those who live in remote locations that make travel time burdensome. Online tutoring is convenient for children who are home-bound due to illness or injury. Parents of home-schooled children find the supplemental tutoring helpful, particularly in subject areas that they themselves may not be proficient.

Q: Is Sylvan's online program available throughout the country?

A: Sylvan's online program is offered at several of our local centers. Call us at 1-800-228-3413 or visit our Center Finder, to see if your local Sylvan Learning Center offers online tutoring.

Q: Is Sylvan's online tutoring program accredited in any way?

A: Yes. The online program is accredited by the Commission on International and Trans-Regional Accreditation (CITA), the fastest growing educational accreditation agency in the world that offers the only set of nationally recognized standards for supplemental education providers.

Q: How effective is Sylvan's online tutoring program?

A: Sylvan guarantees academic growth of at least one grade level. In a pilot study that examined academic progress, Sylvan's online students advanced an average of 1.7 years in reading, and 2.2 years in math.