Top 10 Common Myths About Online Tutoring
Due to the Covid 19 pandemic, online tutoring has gained huge popularity. It was once considered an option to traditional education but now it has become an essential solution for students of all ages. Online tutoring has made solving math problems, learning languages and preparing for tests much easier.
Despite its rapid growth and its effectiveness, many parents and students still find it difficult to opt for online tutoring. Why? The answer lies within the outdated beliefs and myths that keep spreading, creating confusion and doubt amongst them.
Through this blog, we will discuss the 10 common myths about online tutoring using real data, insights from experts and real experiences of the students. If you’re not sure whether online tutoring is for you, this blog will help you to find out.
What Is Online Tutoring?
Online tutoring is a way of providing educational help through the internet, enabling students to connect with skilled tutors across the world.
It offers flexible and customized learning experiences through video calls, interactive whiteboards, different chat features, and documents shared.
There are many types of online tutoring available for different learning needs:
- 1-on-1 tutoring, where a student receives personalized attention from a dedicated tutor.
- Group sessions, which are ideal for collaborative learning and peer interaction.
- Help for doing homeworks, providing support with assignments and clarifying difficult Concepts.
- Guidance on subjects like math, science, languages or exam preparation to gain a deeper understanding of the concepts.
This method of learning is not only convenient but also highly available to students.
According to recent market research, the global online tutoring market is projected to reach $19 billion by 2030, reflecting the growing trust and reliance on virtual education platforms worldwide.
10 Common Myths About Online Tutoring
Myth 1 – Online Tutoring Isn’t as Effective as In-Person Tutoring
Many people think that face to face interaction is more effective than learning online. Yes, in person education has its own benefits, but online tutoring has been proven to be equally, or more effective in many situations. A meta-analysis conducted by the U.S. Department of Education found that students receiving online education have performed better than those students who received fato-to-face instructions.
Online tutoring platforms include features that improve learning, such as interactive whiteboards, session recordings, real time feedback, and tracking student progress. Students can go back to previous sessions anytime, revise those difficult concepts and learn at their own pace which can be harder to do in traditional tutoring settings.
Myth 2 – Online Tutors Aren’t Qualified Professionals
Some people believe that online tutors are just unqualified freelancers or college students who are not qualified. While it might be true in some cases, platforms such as Skooli, Chegg Tutors, and My Engineering Buddy ensure that their tutors are highly qualified. Tutors on these platforms are usually qualified, subject matter experts, or professionals who have achieved advanced degrees and have several years of experience in teaching.
Some platforms also showcase tutor profiles that highlight their educational background, how experienced the tutors are and how much knowledge they are having of those subjects. It also provides student reviews that help students and parents make important decisions.
Myth 3 – Students Don’t Stay Focused During Online Sessions
People think that online tutoring can be distracting especially when students are at home. But online tutoring is designed to be participating and effective. Tutors uses tools like digital whiteboards, screen sharing, quizzes, polls and group discussions to keep students engaged during the session.
In fact, some students feel more at ease in a virtual environment—free from classroom peer pressure which can increase focus and confidence. Short, structured sessions (e.g., 30–45 minutes) and a quiet study setup at home can also significantly improve attention levels during online tutoring.
Myth 4 – It’s Just Pre-recorded Videos or AI Tutors
This myth creates confusion between online tutoring and face to face tutoring. Pre-recorded videos and AI chatbots help in online education but are not an option to online tutoring. Online tutoring help students directly ask questions, receive personalized explanations in real time.
Live sessions allow tutors to adapt based on a student’s learning style and pace, something automated systems can’t fully replicate. Some platforms use AI tools to help tutors for practicing or tracking student progress but the real explanations comes from experienced human beings.
Myth 5 – Online Tutoring Is Only for Struggling Students
People think that online tutoring is for students who need extra help with studies but its actually designed for every student. Students use it to prepare for exams like SAT, GRE, JEE or Olympiads, or to learn new subjects like coding, robotics, or other foreign languages.
Online tutoring help building new skills like writing, public speaking and logical thinking. It not only helps with school problems but also makes studying more effective and help students grow.
Myth 6 – There’s No Personal Connection in Online Learning
Another common concern is that virtual sessions lack the personal touch of in-person tutoring. While the medium is different, building strong tutor-student relationships is still very possible online. Many students work with the same tutor over long periods, allowing familiarity, trust, and understanding to develop naturally.
Platforms often encourage ongoing learning plans with regular check-ins and progress tracking. Tutors get to know their students’ strengths, weaknesses, and learning styles—making the sessions highly personalized and supportive.
Myth 7 – Technical Glitches Ruin the Learning Experience
While it’s true that technical issues can occasionally disrupt sessions, today’s tutoring platforms are designed for stability and ease of use. Most work well on basic internet connections and offer tools like offline assignments, mobile apps, and customer support to minimize disruptions.
Additionally, platforms have made significant investments in ensuring smooth user experiences.
According to a 2023 survey by LearnPlatform, 95% of students reported having stable sessions with their online tutors. With the right preparation such as checking your internet connection, using a headset, and having a backup plan technical concerns can be largely avoided.
Myth 8 – It’s Too Expensive
There’s a perception that online tutoring is a costly luxury. While premium tutors and platforms do exist, the overall market is much more accessible than many think. Online tutoring removes commuting costs and overhead fees, often resulting in more competitive pricing.
Many platforms offer flexible packages such as pay-as-you-go, bulk session discounts, or even group sessions that reduce individual costs. Free trials, scholarship programs, and NGO-led initiatives have also made quality online tutoring available to underprivileged communities across the globe.
Myth 9 – It Doesn’t Support Test Prep or Competitive Exams
Some parents and students believe online tutoring is only helpful for homework help or basic tutoring not intensive exam prep. This is false. Online tutoring has become a central tool for preparing for high-stakes exams like CLAT, NEET, GMAT, and more.
Tutors often offer mock exams, weekly review sessions, targeted practice questions, and strategy coaching—all tailored to the test format. Students also benefit from flexible scheduling, personalized attention, and access to digital resources such as recorded sessions and revision tools.
Myth 10 – It’s Just a Trend That Won’t Last
Online tutoring is not a passing trend it’s a long-term shift in how education is accessed and delivered. The COVID-19 pandemic acted as a catalyst, but the foundational benefits of online tutoring convenience, flexibility, access to global expertise ensure it’s here to stay.
According to market research by Spherical Insights, the global online tutoring market was valued at $6.52 billion in 2021 and is projected to reach $19.47 billion by 2030, growing at a CAGR of 13.5%. This growth is driven not just by short-term demand but by structural changes in how students and parents approach education.
Red Flags to Avoid
- Unverified Tutors: No credentials, experience, or identification of tutors can be a major concern.
- Lack of Reviews: New platforms may not have many, but a complete absence of feedback or overly generic testimonials could indicate a lack of transparency.
- Too-Good-To-Be-True Pricing: Extremely low rates can signal poor quality, inexperienced tutors, or hidden charges.
- No Human Support: Trustworthy platforms provide real customer support via chat, email, or phone—not just bots.
- Unclear Policies: Vague or missing information about refunds, session cancellation, or privacy practices is a red flag.
CHECK OUR MEB ONLINE TUTORING COURSES
Frequently Asked Questions About Online Tutoring
1. Is online tutoring really effective?
Yes, online tutoring can be highly effective when delivered by experienced tutors using the right tools and methods. Multiple studies show that students benefit from personalized attention, flexible pacing, and interactive learning platforms. Effectiveness increases when sessions are consistent and aligned with the learner’s goals.
2. What qualifications do online tutors have?
Qualified online tutors often have degrees in their subject areas, teaching certifications, and prior experience in education or tutoring. Trusted platforms vet their tutors through background checks and skills assessments. Always check for credentials, years of experience, and student reviews.
3. Can online tutoring help with test prep?
Absolutely. Online tutoring is particularly effective for test preparation (SAT, ACT, GRE, GMAT, etc.) because tutors offer structured study plans, practice tests, and exam-specific strategies. Many platforms offer subject-specific test prep packages with proven track records.
4. How do I know if an online tutor is legit?
Look for platforms that verify tutor credentials, display student testimonials, and offer trial sessions. Legitimate tutors will also have a professional online presence, consistent reviews, and clear subject expertise. Avoid services that are vague about tutor qualifications or lack transparency.
5. What if my child doesn’t focus during online sessions?
This is a common concern. Engaging tutors use interactive tools, whiteboards, quizzes, and multimedia content to keep students focused. Also, 1-on-1 attention often reduces distractions. Parents can support focus by setting up a quiet study environment and being involved initially.
6. Is online tutoring better than in-person tutoring?
Online tutoring offers flexibility, a wider pool of tutors, and no travel time, making it highly convenient. While both formats can be effective, online tutoring is often more scalable and tech-enhanced, especially with features like session recordings, digital notes, and 24/7 support.
7. How much does online tutoring usually cost?
Prices can be different based on different tutors, subject and platform. Group classes are cheaper, but special subjects or preparing for tests might cost more.
8. Can online tutoring help with learning disabilities?
Yes, online tutors are trained to support students having ADHD, dyslexia, or any other learning difficulties. Platforms offer many learning plans, visual aids and helpful tools that make learning more easier and effective.
9. What subjects can I find help with in online tutoring?
Online tutoring helps with many subjects like Math, Science, and English and also topics like coding, music, and foreign languages. It also helps with college subjects, test preparation and homework.
10. Are online tutoring sessions recorded?
Many platforms allow students to go through previous session recordings to review concepts after the class. This reinforces learning and is particularly helpful for exam revision or when parents want to monitor progress. Check the platform’s policy for privacy and storage.
