Technology has been taking the 21st century by storm since its arrival, leaving few unexposed survivors. Shaping today’s classrooms, online mediums and resources have prompted second graders to work with tablets more than professors, but also shape the way tradition tutoring has been viewed and conducted.
An online based service called HelpHub, serves to connect students seeking additional teaching in their studies with tutors ready to help. The 2-year-old Canadian company currently houses over 12,000 registered tutors, and growing, who are on the platform around the clock to serve students in over 65 countries.
“We facilitate all communication, which includes chat, videos and [instant messaging],” said developer Miguel Kudry.
Thinking of the idea during his undergrad, Kudry envisioned a helping hand within reach no matter the subject or time of need. Within two years HelpHub has grown internationally, while primarily serving North America.
“A lot of times students in North America will be working with students in Kenya,” said Kudry. “We give the medium to connect.”
Made easy, connecting to a tutor requires only the creation of a free account. After signing up users are exposed to circles of numerous subjects, and the tutors who specialize in them. From mathematics to science, to art and English, the subject and tools are endless, while the education levels push the limit.
Tutors build credibility through “tutor karma” by answering questions, taking part in forums and assisting students in any other way on the site. Their score reflects their accuracy and participation, and is displayed on profiles for past, current and future students to use as a reference. As a tutor, the higher your karma is, the more traffic you’ll experience.
On the opposite side, becoming a tutor is just as simple. After creating a free “become a tutor” account and being at least 14 years of age, HelpHub prompts prospective tutors to provide proof of credibility via copy of transcripts or credentials. After they’re reviewed, the build up of tutor karma can begin.
“It’s really up to how much time you put in, making it a great opportunity to make some money on the side,” said Kudry.
When it comes to billing, rates are ultimately up to the student and tutor involved. If the session is answering one problem, or if it’s an an hour and a half lecture, the rate is discussed beforehand and can fluctuate respectively with the goals of each session. Overall, longer sessions have a minimum rate of $5 an hour, and smaller sessions are charged by the minute.
“We all have our favorite subjects [and] subjects we’re good at. Often students will tutor in that subject they do well in, and use that money to pay for tutoring in the subjects they need help with,” Kudry added.
Type HelpHub into your search bar next time an algorithm has stumped you, or if you need an essay edited. The experience could alter your grade point average and maybe even your bank account.
Anyone insterested in learning more about HelpHub and their resources can visit their website at academy.helphub.com.
