My definition of a tutor is someone who sees the best in every one, and works to bring that out. To me, this is the most important function of a tutor. Among the things that I associate with tutoring is punctuality, friendliness, empathy, patience, and good listening skills.
Punctuality is key. If the day is going to be packed with tutoring sessions, a lack of punctuality means that the time a tutor can spend with a tutee is going to be cut short. If the tutor is late, it is a major disservice to the tutee, who is not getting the help they need. If the tutee is late, it is a major disservice to the other tutees waiting to be helped as the tutor sits idle. Neither situation is helpful, and so punctuality must be made a priority.
Friendliness is important to building a rapport with your tutee. They should want to come in, not just because they need help, but because they are glad to see a friendly face when they are having trouble with a class. That rapport with be the base upon which trust is built, and over that bridge of trust the tutor will be able to help the tutee achieve their goals.
A tutor must empathize with the tutee. In our society, I feel like the media and many other cultural influences have demonized the need to ask for help. As a tutor, we must validate that request for help, and show that we understand that the tutee needs help, and that we are glad to provide it. It is not a sign of weakness to ask for help, but rather a sign of a willingness to better oneself.
Patience must be practiced, as you are there to work at the tutee's pace, not your own.
Finally, a tutor should be a good listener. They must be able to hear what the tutee is having trouble with in their own words. Only then can the tutor begin to give the tutee meaningful help by providing directed assistance.
Wes
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