Group Classes
IGCSE and AS Group Classes:
An assessment per subject can be done prior to the start of classes and feedback given to parents on the readiness of the student. Where the student is not ready, we will propose interventions and catch-up plans where required which could consist of extra lessons, self-study etc.
If a student moves from other curricula to Cambridge International, we do require a discussion with the parents and student regarding the differences and responsibilities of the student, parents and Digitutors to ensure successful transition.
Subjects on offer:
Mathematics
Physics
Chemistry
Biology
Geography
English
Afrikaans
Computer Science
ICT and IT
Business Studies
Economics
Accounting
Travel and Tourism
History
Art & Design
- Env Mgt
We work in collaboration with like-minded online education providers and will refer to them where we believe they will be better suited in specific subjects creating the optimal solution for every student.
Classes:
In IGCSE and AS subjects there are two x 1-hour classes per week per subject. (AS Maths 4 x lessons per week)
Classes are kept small and will have around 5 to 6 students per class. Students are required to keep their cameras on during the classes.
Class days, times and term dates for each subject will be communicated at the beginning of the year and these will only change under exceptional circumstances.
Classes run in around 34-week cycles. The first 25 weeks are focused on the syllabus content and then 9 to 10 weeks on exam preparation.
Classes are split when exam prep starts between students writing exams and those only writing in the next cycle to ensure maximum focus on exam preparation (for exam prep process details – see section on Examination Preparation)
For best results, IGCSE subjects should ideally be completed in 12 to 18 months where AS subjects should be completed in 18 to 24 months per subject.
New students or students who only want to join for exam preparation can slot into the classes at any time and the teachers will ensure integration.
We do a study skills course at least once a year which is included in the package.
Facilitation of content:
Students who follow the Cambridge International Curriculum succeed when they take responsibility for their own success. And they have to understand that they need to put in the time and do the work to be successful.
Our role in this process is to deliver the content through a facilitation process in the classes, with a focus on practicing critical thinking and problem-solving skills.
Concepts are taught, but our classes are not a full hour of a tutor speaking. After a specific concept is explained, the tutor will go through some examples after which students will need to do some problems by themselves. They will then all discuss the problems and answers and the tutor will consolidate their understanding based on the feedback and interaction.
In an online environment, it is critical for the students to have their cameras and microphones on, be present and actively engage in class.
We use a lot of simulations, online exercises and interactive materials ensuring students stay engaged while practicing the necessary skills.
Past papers form an integral part of preparation for examinations and are used from early on to familiarise students with how exam questions are asked.
Classes are done on a standardized platform with access to a LMS (Learning Management System). Digital whiteboards are utilised during class times and notes and recordings of classes are available.
The LMS contains the full course including learning objectives, lessons, extra resources, self-marking quizzes and extra assignments and is regularly updated.
Assessments:
Students will get homework and assignments to complete. Extra assignments, quizzes and assessments are available on the LMS (Learning management system) for further practice as well.
Internal examinations are done in May and November each year to measure progress and readiness for external examinations.
Feedback to parents:
Face to face online discussions will be set up with parents where there are concerns around the progress of the student.
There is a lot of informal engagement with parents as well, up to the point where the parent will get a message if the student is late for class or doesn’t pitch up as well as if homework is not done.
We believe that where the student accepts responsibility for his/her success, guided by passionate tutors and supported by informed parents, success is guaranteed.
Formal reports are issued at the end of each term.
Where a parent requests further forms of feedback, it will be agreed between Digitutors and the parent.
Interaction with tutors outside of class times:
All students have access to tutors outside of class times, mostly through whatsapp.
There is also a daily fixed online session (Mondays to Thursdays) in the afternoons where tutors are available to assist students with their homework or questions and can also explain and assist with areas the student may struggle with.
It is a value-add service available to all students and those who make use of it, definitely experience the benefits and improvements in their studies.
These daily sessions can also be very valuable to create some structure and discipline where a student may require it.
During examination preparation, these time slots are utilized for extra lessons and further exam support.