Strategy

High-Dosage / Low Ratio Tutoring

What is it?

High-dosage tutoring is a practice that can help schools and districts address learning gaps and increase learning. High dosage tutoring is delivered in three or more one-on-one sessions per week or in intensive weekly small group sessions led by qualified and trained tutors. In low-ratio tutoring scenarios, small group sessions cannot exceed a 4:1 student-tutor ratio. Sessions are treated as scheduled classes and are approximately 30 to 60 minutes each.  Effective programs last at least 10 weeks while some may last an entire school year depending on the student’s progress. 

What is the evidence base?

High-dosage tutoring produces learning gains for students who have fallen behind academically. Specifically, it is one of the few school-based interventions that have significant positive effects on both math and reading achievement. Kindergarten and first grade students in English high-dosage tutoring programs outperform non-tutoring program students and demonstrate a higher rate of progression in their reading. The positive effects of high-dosage tutoring make it a highly cost-effective strategy. It is also one of the most effective ways to increase achievement for students from underserved communities. Low student-tutor ratios allow tutors to provide more stimulating, responsive, and supportive interactions. 

• Robinson et al_2021_Accelerating Student Learning with High-Dosage Tutoring
• Barnett, Shulman, and Shore_2004_Class Size: What’s the Best Fit?
• Kortecamp_2019_Early Learning Intervenionist TeacherMate Studies Innovations for Learning