Learner Centred Tutoring

Good tutors recognize who the learner is, and make the lessons relevant and useful to the learner. It's important to consult your learner about what and how he or she wants to learn. Make choices together about the content and activities in the lessons.

Try to keep your learner actively involved by using a variety of activities. Show your learner how to direct, and take responsibility for his or her own learning. For example, do practical tasks that are relevant to your learner, such as helping with vocabulary needed to buy stamps at the post office, or filling out a job application.

Consider the Learner's Prior Knowledge

Learning builds on existing knowledge, understanding, and skills. Remember that your ESL learner will already have knowledge and understanding in another language. Plan activities that use the unique resource of their experiences, perspectives, and cultural knowledge.

Click on the videos to learn more about the learner-centred approach to tutoring, as well as the principle of prior learning.

Learner-Centred Approach

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Prior Learning

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You're Learning Too!
Your time as a tutor will be as much of a learning experience for you as it will be for your learner. You will have the opportunity to see your own language, culture, and community in new ways. It's important to examine your own assumptions about people of other cultures, about immigrants, about learning, about the English language, and about yourself. It's best to cultivate an open mind about all aspects of the tutoring experience.