In this blog, we explain how to use a SWOT analysis to inform your lesson plan when tutoring students, whether one-on-one or as an online tutor.

First, very quickly, here are a few tips we have for you when implementing a SWOT analysis with your student:

This is an enabling tool - it should not make the student feel bad about their weaknesses or challenges in anyway, but rather, these challenges should be viewed in light of the strengths and opportunities the student has to address them. When implementing this tool, attempt to maintain a positive and encouraging attitude (this is not to say that weaknesses and challenges should not be adequately highlighted, it is important that the student is aware of where they are struggling academically, but in a way that allows for a feeling of empowerment and ability to address these needs)

To make the student feel more comfortable, we would suggest you bring along the SWOT analysis you did on yourself, use this as an example. This may also allow the student to feel they know you a little better and can more easily relate to you as a tutor

Guide the student through the analysis, but do not instruct or “talk at” them; this tool should be a guide for them to predominantly figure out for themselves what their strengths, weaknesses, threats and opportunities are. You are there to assist them toward this self-realisation - you can do this by asking them guiding questions, using your SWOT analysis as a reference and encouraging them to think outside the box"

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