How to tutor students

Tutoring is a hugely fulfilling aspect of many academics’ work. But knowing how and where to start, especially with students just beginning their university journey, can be as nerve wracking for a new tutor as it is for their tutees. There’s no single right way to run these sessions, says Matt Rattley, a lecturer and tutor in biochemistry at the University of Oxford, UK. ‘From a tutor’s point of view, the main purpose of a tutorial is to expose student thinking such that it can be addressed and supported appropriately going forwards,’ they explain. ‘We’re there to answer students’ questions and to push them as far as they can go.’

Below, the experts share their advice for planning and delivering supportive tutorials for any student cohort.