Here at State Street, we often get asked what coaches do (and how is it different from a tutor). This is an important question, and it’s one that parents need to understand when seeking out support in college.
First, let’s focus on the main objective of each. Tutors are focused on the content of classes; generally, this will be one specific course. For example, if a student needs help learning the material in Spanish or Calculus, a tutor can help teach, demonstrate, and review class content so that the student better learns in the course. They can focus in on specific information and help students better understand what’s being covered in class.
A coach has a more wide-reaching approach. Through the use of goals and skill-building, coaches work with students to improve the process of their learning, effectiveness, and productivity. By focusing on the process, coaches can help students make gains in areas like organization, planning, time management, and work completion. Coaches work to support students as they learn and develop lifelong skills that students will need in many areas of life. Coaching can also help students with their confidence, self-esteem, and perception of school. Essentially, coaches are helping students learn how to learn, identify the strategies that optimize their academic work, and become more independent.
Students that are struggling to manage their work, not meeting the daily demands of school, lack independence, or have school issues week to week are good candidates for coaching. This includes students who may be hyperactive, overstressed, stagnant, or underperforming. Coaching can provide these students with work on the skills and processes they need to re-establish their independence and improve their academic skills. The skills will help students strengthen their abilities when it comes to work completion, project management, writing skills, or any other college challenge.
Coaching is effective over a duration of time that allows students to learn skills, practice them, and develop routines, habits, and methods for success. This could be a semester, year, or longer.
For more information about working with a college coach, browse our website or reach out to us at info@statestreeteducation.com.