The Classical Liberal Arts Academy (CLAA) offers both independent study and private tutoring as part of its flexible learning model. While both are designed to help students succeed in their studies, they serve very different purposes.
1. Independent Study
- Independent study is the standard method of learning in the CLAA program.
- Students work through their courses at their own pace in the CLAA Study Center (Moodle).
- All lessons, quizzes, exams, and written assignments are completed online by the student.
- Progress is tracked automatically in the system through activity completion, instructional time, grades, and reports.
- Students are fully responsible for their own learning, including reviewing lessons, memorizing material, completing assessments, and preparing for live examinations.
- Independent study gives students maximum flexibility to study anytime, anywhere.
2. Private Tutoring
- Private tutoring is an optional, one-time Zoom meeting with Mr. Michael.
- It is designed to provide personal academic support—not to replace regular coursework.
- During a tutoring session, the tutor:
- Reviews the student’s progress in their courses
- Answers questions about lesson content
- Provides feedback on assignments or assessments
- Helps students overcome specific obstacles
- Tutoring sessions must be scheduled and paid for in advance.
- Students receive “Instructional Time” credit for tutoring sessions, which is added to their official time records.
3. Relationship Between the Two
- Independent study is required for all students and forms the foundation of the CLAA program.
- Tutoring is optional and supplemental, intended to strengthen a student’s independent learning—not to replace it.
- Students who use tutoring effectively do so to:
- Clarify difficult concepts
- Receive personal feedback
- Improve their study methods
- Accelerate their progress through lessons
4. Important Distinctions
- Independent study is self-directed and ongoing.
- Tutoring is occasional, instructor-led support.
- Independent study is required for course completion and grading.
- Tutoring provides guidance but does not replace assignments or assessments.
- Tutoring time counts toward instructional time but not toward automatic course credit.
Summary
- Independent study is the foundation of CLAA learning, where students complete their coursework on their own.
- Private tutoring is optional, personalized support to help students strengthen their understanding and performance.
- Tutoring can help resolve difficulties but cannot substitute for the required work of independent study.
- Together, they give students both the freedom to learn at their own pace and the guidance to stay on track when needed.