Many parents frequently ask whether their child would benefit more from group learning or one-to-one tuition. While both approaches have their advantages, the best option depends on the individual needs of each student. That said, I often highly recommend small group learning due to its numerous benefits. Let’s take a closer look at why this approach can be so effective.
Education plays a pivotal role in shaping a child’s future, and one of the most effective ways to ensure success is through personalised learning. In Thailand, where students often attend international schools following the British curriculum, extra academic support can be the key to excelling. At our tuition school, with campuses in both Pattaya and Bangkok, we pride ourselves on offering small group learning sessions, providing an environment where personalised attention is at the forefront. But why is small group learning so beneficial, and how does it truly make a difference in the educational experience of students? Let’s explore.
Tailored Learning Experiences
In a typical classroom classroom, it’s not uncommon for one teacher to be responsible for managing 20 or even 30 students. While international schools often have smaller class sizes than public schools, it is still a challenge for teachers to give each student the individual attention they need even in groups of 18-24. This is where small group learning shines. By working with groups of no more than 6-8 students, our tutors are able to tailor lessons to meet the specific needs of each child.
Each student learns at their own pace, and in a small group setting, tutors can identify individual strengths and areas for improvement. Whether a student struggles with a particular concept in mathematics or needs extra support with their English writing skills, the small group environment allows for flexibility. Tutors can modify their approach, ensuring that each child is appropriately challenged and supported. This personalisation is far more challenging to achieve in larger classroom settings.
A Supportive Learning Community
One of the key advantages of small group learning is the sense of community it fosters. While one-to-one tutoring is often considered for its focus, small group sessions offer the added benefit of peer interaction. In our tuition classes, students are encouraged to collaborate, share ideas, and engage in discussions with their classmates. This not only enhances their understanding of the subject matter but also boosts their confidence.
Students in small groups are often more willing to ask questions and seek clarification. They feel less intimidated than they might in a larger class and are more likely to engage actively in their learning. The group dynamic also allows students to learn from each other, gaining different perspectives on the topics being discussed. For instance, during a science revision class, one student’s question might spark a conversation that benefits the entire group, deepening their collective understanding. Speaking and listening time is planned into every lesson at the British Learning Centre. In maths, this might be through working together on a "True of False" problem or in science it might be offering the opportunity for "I wonder..." questions on the given topic.
Personalised Feedback and Progress Tracking
At our tuition school in Pattaya, we take personalised attention seriously. In small groups, our tutors can provide more detailed and immediate feedback. This is crucial for helping students understand not just what they are learning, but how well they are grasping the material. Our tutors are trained to assess each student’s progress and provide constructive feedback tailored to their individual learning needs.
We regularly assess each student’s performance through informal quizzes, written assignments, and discussions. This ongoing assessment allows us to track progress more effectively than in a larger classroom environment, where students can sometimes get lost in the crowd. By keeping close tabs on each student, we can intervene early if any issues arise and adjust our teaching methods accordingly. After every class, parents are sent by email a summary of their child's performance in that lesson as well as what they did.
Building Strong Relationships
Another significant benefit of small group learning is the opportunity to build strong, trusting relationships between students and tutors. In a large class, it’s easy for a student to feel like just another face in the room. However, in a small group setting, our tutors get to know each student on a personal level. They become familiar with each student’s learning style, interests, and challenges. This close relationship allows tutors to offer more than just academic support; they become mentors, offering guidance and encouragement to help students reach their full potential.
At the British Learning Centre, we believe that learning is not just about passing exams but about manifesting a love for learning. By building strong relationships with our students, we create a positive, supportive atmosphere where students feel comfortable taking risks, making mistakes, and growing academically and personally.
Flexibility and Customisation in Scheduling
As we provide tuition classes in the evenings and on weekends, we understand the importance of flexibility. Many of our students in Pattaya attend British international schools, which often means they have busy schedules filled with extracurricular activities and other commitments. Our small group sessions allow us to offer more flexible scheduling, catering to the individual needs of families.
Moreover, because of the small class size, we can quickly adapt to any changes in a student’s school curriculum or exam preparation requirements. Whether it’s preparing for IGCSEs or improving understanding in core subjects like maths, science, or English, our personalised approach ensures that students receive the support they need when they need it.
Conclusion
Small group learning offers an unparalleled opportunity for personalised attention and academic growth. At our tuition schools in Pattaya and Bangkok, we are committed to providing a supportive and flexible learning environment where each student can thrive. By focusing on individual needs, fostering a sense of community, and offering tailored feedback, we ensure that every student is set up for success.
If you’re looking for a way to give your child the extra support they need to excel, our small group sessions could be the perfect solution. With the personalised attention that small groups provide, your child can develop both academically and personally, setting them on the path to success.