Why Train as a Tutor When You Can Be a Learning Specialist?

Posted by Erica Warren on Feb 15, 2023

What is the Difference Between a Tutor and a Learning Specialist?

A tutor is a teacher who assists students outside of school. They provide support and review concepts with difficult subject matter or classes. Oftentimes, they help with homework completion and may address some study strategies. Tutors usually hold a degree in the subject(s) instructed, and many have an undergraduate degree or higher. Also you can check out our article on the difference between a tutor and a teacher.

A learning specialist is an instructor who is skilled and experienced in providing learning strategies to struggling students. These professionals work one-on-one or in small groups to give students intensive support. Often an expert in a number of subject areas, learning specialists present multisensory instruction, study strategies, memory techniques, metacognitive and focusing methods, and compensatory learning strategies.

Many are versed in assistive technology, creating intervention plans, defining reasonable accommodations, and assisting students to with self-advocacy skills. Many learning specialists also offer reading, writing and/or math remediation as well as cognitive remedial training, homework help and direct communication with teachers and other professionals. Learning Specialists are educated in learning and cognition as well as alternative approaches to learning. Holding a degree in education as well as a master’s degree or doctorate in a field such as educational psychology, special education, neuropsychology, and or school psychology is optimal, however, there are no licensing requirements to use this title. See our course on how to become a learning specialist.

8 Reasons to be a Learning Specialist

Learning specialists make a better income. I began my practice 18 years ago at $90.00 an hour. At present, I charge $145.00 an hour.
Learning specialists offer more services than a tutor. Instead of re-teaching academic content, learning specialists also teach advocacy techniques, executive functioning training, study skills, test-taking strategies, memory strategies, metacognitive strategies and more.
Learning specialists get more respect from parents, teachers, and administrators. Therefore, it is easier to network and gain clientele.
You can service a larger population of learners so you won’t have to worry about attracting enough students.
There is a great need/demand for learning specialists to be working with students after school locally and online.
You can find a plethora of resources for learning specialists and educational therapists at www.GoodSensoryLearning.com.
I also offer a ton of free ideas and resources on my blog, Pinterest, Facebook page, and Youtube channel.
I can help you! I offer a course: Create a Successful Learning Specialist Practice in 60 Days! I even have a free trial for my course, Learning Specialist Secrets!

If you have any questions, feel free to reach out at any time. You can contact me directly at erica@goodsensorylearning.com

Cheers, Dr. Erica Warren

Dr. Erica Warren is the author, illustrator, and publisher of multisensory educational materials at Good Sensory Learning. She is also the director of Learning to Learn and Learning Specialist Courses.