Navigating post-secondary education can be tricky, and knowing where to turn for help is key. When students start to struggle, many immediately think of tutoring. But what if tutoring isn’t the only answer? What if you need support learning how to learn—not just what to learn?
Understanding the difference between an Academic Strategist and a traditional tutor can be a game-changer in accessing the right support for your academic journey. This blog post will break down the difference and help you determine which type of support is right for you.
What Is Tutoring?
Traditional tutoring typically focuses on content mastery. A tutor provides assistance in a specific subject, such as math, statistics, physics, or chemistry. They help you understand concepts, complete assignments, and prepare for exams in that particular course.
Tutoring is often reactive, meaning you seek help when you’re already struggling with the material. While tutoring can be helpful, it’s often a limited form of support—addressing immediate needs without necessarily building long-term skills. Many students think of tutoring first when they start to struggle with studying, but it isn’t always the most effective solution.
What Is an Academic Strategist?
An Academic Strategist takes a broader approach, focusing on building essential learning skills, providing executive function support, assisting with academic planning, and offering strategy instruction. They empower you to become a more effective and independent learner.
Unlike a tutor who focuses on specific subjects, an Academic Strategist acts as a learning coach, helping you develop the skills and strategies to tackle any academic challenge. They coach you to become a more confident and self-directed learner.
Key Differences: Content vs. Process
The core difference between a tutor and an Academic Strategist lies in their fundamental approach to learning. Consider these key distinctions:
- Focus:
Tutors focus on subject-specific content. Academic Strategists focus on the learning process across all subjects. - Goal:
Tutors aim to improve performance in a single course. Academic Strategists aim to develop long-term independence and self-advocacy. - Method:
Tutors reteach material and help with assignments. Academic Strategists guide students in setting goals, creating study plans, and developing learning strategies. - Scope:
Tutoring is typically short-term and assignment-specific. Academic Strategy Instruction builds lifelong academic skills that benefit students throughout their education
How MyLearningCoach Integrates Both (When Needed)
At MyLearningCoach, we offer Academic Coaching—a service that blends academic strategy instruction with tutoring support when appropriate. Tutoring is available, but it’s embedded within a broader coaching framework.
We recognize that while tutoring can be helpful, students often need to learn how to learn, not just review course content. Our Learning Coaches provide proactive, personalized support that builds academic confidence and self-management.
Who Benefits Most from Academic Strategy Instruction?
Academic Strategy Instruction is helpful for any post-secondary student seeking to build stronger academic habits, but it’s especially beneficial for:
- Students navigating learning barriers: Including those with diagnosed or undiagnosed learning disabilities, ADHD, or other challenges.
- Students with executive function challenges: Such as time management, organization, or task initiation.
- Students seeking grant-funded support: Including those eligible for the Canada Student Grant for Services and Equipment (CSG-DSE).
The MyLearningCoach Approach
MyLearningCoach is committed to guiding students through each stage of their academic journey. Our team offers personalized support to help you overcome challenges, build effective strategies, and gain confidence in your learning.
We work collaboratively with students and, when applicable, with accessibility professionals at post-secondary institutions. Our approach is skill-based, student-centered, and rooted in the belief that every student deserves full access to their education.
Take the Next Step with MyLearningCoach
Learning shouldn’t be overwhelming. If you’re feeling stuck, uncertain, or in need of direction, Academic Strategy Instruction may be the right fit.
Reach out to MyLearningCoach today to learn more about our services and how we can support your learning journey. We’re here to support you—and we believe in your ability to succeed.