The effectiveness and credibility of online tutoring programs have been called into question by a recent report from LearnPlatform by Instructure. The report found that less than one-third of online tutoring solutions follow the design principles for identifying high-impact tutoring, despite claiming to provide high-impact tutoring.
Researchers are concerned about the upcoming post-pandemic funding cliff and whether edtech companies are adhering to high-impact tutoring design principles. Many states turned to online tutoring to fill learning gaps post-COVID, with 40 states currently providing funding for tutoring programs. However, only 26 of these states require programs to be aligned with high-impact standards, such as the four tiers of evidence provided by the Every Student Succeeds Act (ESSA).
Aligning solutions with ESSA requirements is crucial for companies to differentiate their solutions and demonstrate positive impact to school districts and educational agencies. Melissa Loble, chief academic officer at Instructure, emphasized the importance of evidence-backed success in edtech companies, especially as budget cuts and teacher shortages continue to widen gaps in schools.
The report revealed that 41 percent of the tutoring solutions reviewed lacked publicly available information on adherence to high-impact tutoring design principles. Additionally, the majority of the available research on online tutoring solutions did not meet any ESSA criteria. Only 30 percent of online tutoring solutions had evidence that fulfilled the requirements for an ESSA Level III study or better.
Online tutoring solutions meeting ESSA Level I or II standards were found to be more effective than those meeting ESSA Level III standards. However, solutions meeting ESSA III and IV standards were still preferred over those with no evidence. Strong research validation not only gives institutions confidence in program effectiveness but also provides outside affirmation of impact.
By leveraging research to demonstrate learning impacts across student groups, edtech companies can unlock additional funding opportunities. Demonstrating impact to align with funding requirements not only attracts education institutions with limited budgets but also positions companies as top choices in the market. Strategic planning and building partnerships with industry leaders are essential for driving innovation and impact in education.
Researchers conducted a systematic search for evidence on online tutoring solutions using various methods. The final analytical sample comprised 64 studies and 82 effect sizes across 34 online tutoring solutions, totaling 68,672 students in the meta-analysis. This comprehensive research aims to provide valuable insights into emerging trends and opportunities, positioning companies as trusted partners within the education ecosystem.
In conclusion, the report emphasizes the importance of high-impact tutoring design principles and evidence-backed success in online tutoring solutions. Edtech companies must prioritize research validation to support student learning and secure funding opportunities in the education market. Collaboration and strategic partnerships are key to driving meaningful change and innovation in education.
