Also called “High-Dosage Tutoring”, High-Impact Tutoring is a form of personalized tutoring that consists of regularly occurring, relationship-driven, usually 1-on-1 or small group tutoring sessions that are specific to the individual needs of the student, but are not generally the same as the typical IEP (individualized education program) or “study hall.” This educational strategy has been researched time and time again and continues to prove its efficacy. It’s also been found to be a powerful supplement to classroom experiences, rather than a replacement for them.
In other words, high-impact tutoring is defined as as one-on-one or small group instruction aimed at achieving specific educational goals, emphasizing substantial time each week, strong student-tutor relationships, and close monitoring of student progress.
We’ll break down each key component of high-impact tutoring here to help you get a better understanding.
Relationship-Driven and Individualized
High-impact tutoring (remember, some people and organizations use high-dosage tutoring synonymously) is anchored intensive relationship-driven individualized instruction. There are an abundance of meta-analyses and studies that highlight its superior performance over other academic interventions. Its personalized approach allows for targeted learning that addresses students’ specific needs. Since it is best that this style of tutoring be facilitated in a 1-on-1 or small group setting, it provides a nurturing environment for both educational and personal growth. Students undergoing high-impact tutoring often feel more connected to the instructor, which in turn helps them to connect better with the content. Not only this, but since high-dosage tutoring typically means that students will receive at least 1.5 hours of this kind of instruction each week, spread over a few days, it allows more time for instructors to really listen to their students and figure how they are think and how they are motivated at a personal level.
Regularity
One of the most significant benefits of high-impact tutoring is its ability to accelerate student learning in a way that is equitable and grounded in real-world contexts. Unlike traditional methods that may cater to the masses, high-impact tutoring zeroes in on the individual, providing the necessary resources and attention to facilitate genuine understanding and application of knowledge over time. Most resources recommend a minimum of three (3) 30-minute sessions per week. With regard to apportionment, each session is usually focused on one particular subject matter. The entire duration of the student-tutor relationship should include time to correct and reflect on what was learned in the past as well as master new subjects while preparing a foundation for future knowledge expansion.
Challenges for Schools
While the advantages are plentiful, high-impact tutoring is not without its challenges, especially within school divisions such as those found in Virginia. Implementing a program of this nature requires thoughtful coordination, adequate resources, and a shift in traditional educational paradigms. Schools must contend with scheduling conflicts, resource allocation, and ensuring that tutoring sessions are—ideally—seamlessly integrated into the regular school day to avoid student burnout and ensure accessibility. Furthermore, there is a need for a data-driven approach to keep the tutoring aligned with each student’s evolving needs and the school’s curriculum.
Conclusion
In the spirit of educational advancement and personal growth, Commonwealth Tutoring is partnering with schools and parents in Virginia to leverage technology-enhanced, high-dosage tutoring and provide our students with the tools they need to overcome challenges and achieve academic success. Now, more than ever, is the time to invest into the future, and it starts with ensuring that students receive the quality education they deserve.
