From Tutor to Student: How AI Tools Transformed My Teaching Approach
Tutor learning digital marketing as a student
Introduction: The Tutor Who Became a Student Again
As an O-Level tutor, I’ve spent years helping students improve their study techniques and develop problem-solving skills. But recently, I stepped into their shoes as a learner—not in math or science, but in digital marketing with AI tools. My goal? To reach and support more students online.
I thought, “How hard can it be?” It turns out, learning something completely new is humbling. This experience gave me powerful insights into how students feel when they struggle with math, science, or exams. More importantly, it transformed my teaching approach.
Lesson #1: Overwhelm is Normal—But It’s Not a Sign to Give Up
When I first opened SurferSEO and ChatGPT, I was completely lost. The interface was unfamiliar, and there were too many features to understand at once. I felt overwhelmed and discouraged. This is exactly how many students feel when they start learning a new math formula or a tough chemistry concept. The fear of “I don’t get it” makes it tempting to give up.
Key Takeaway for Students & Parents:
Feeling lost at the beginning is part of the learning process.
Instead of focusing on how much you don’t know, start with small steps.
Master one concept at a time, and confidence will follow.
For example, when learning a new math formula, try breaking it down into smaller parts and practicing each step until you feel comfortable moving on to the next.
Lesson #2: Small Wins Build Confidence More Than Big Jumps
At first, my AI-generated videos looked amateurish—basic, robotic, and not engaging. I could have thought, “I’ll never get this right.” Instead, I focused on refining my scripts to sound more natural, adjusting animations to look more polished, and improving AI voiceovers to enhance engagement. Finally, I created a video that looked professional and smooth. It wasn’t perfect—but it was a huge improvement from my first attempt.
Key Takeaway for Students & Parents:
Progress matters more than perfection. A 2-mark improvement in an exam is still progress!
Students should track their small wins—completing a tough math problem, understanding a difficult science concept, or improving exam scores by just a few marks.
The more you practice, the more confident you become.
To illustrate this, consider keeping a journal to record small achievements each day. This can help build motivation and reinforce the idea that every step forward is valuable.
Lesson #3: Mistakes Are Not Failures—They Are Stepping Stones
The first time I used AI to optimize my content, I made so many mistakes: misused keywords, wrote robotic AI-generated captions, and created posts that lacked engagement. Instead of quitting, I analyzed what went wrong, adjusted, and tried again. This is exactly what I tell my students.
Key Takeaway for Students & Parents:
Mistakes are normal. Every failed attempt teaches something new.
Students should analyze their errors in tests and learn from them.
Growth mindset beats perfectionism. Those who succeed are the ones who keep adjusting and improving.
For instance, after a test, take time to review the questions you got wrong. Identify the concepts you struggled with and focus on those areas in your next study session.
Lesson #4: AI is a Powerful Learning Tool—But It Can’t Replace Thinking
AI made my digital marketing easier, but I quickly realized something: AI can generate answers, but I need to analyze and refine them. AI can assist with ideas, but creativity still matters. AI can automate some tasks, but human connection is irreplaceable.
Key Takeaway for Students & Parents:
AI can help students learn (e.g., ChatGPT for study summaries), but they must actively engage with the material.
Critical thinking and problem-solving are still essential, even in an AI-driven world.
AI should be a study assistant, not a shortcut.
To leverage AI effectively, consider using tools like ChatGPT to generate study notes, but then review and expand on those notes yourself to deepen your understanding.
Final Reflection: Why Learning Never Stops
This journey into AI-powered learning taught me a powerful truth: learning never stops. Even as an experienced tutor, I had to embrace the beginner mindset, overcome frustration, and celebrate small wins—the same journey I encourage my students to take.
Message for Students:
Struggling means you’re learning—don’t let it stop you.
Small progress adds up—keep pushing forward.
Mistakes aren’t failures—they are stepping stones.
AI is a tool, but your thinking skills matter more.
Message for Parents:
Encourage a growth mindset in your child.
Praise effort, persistence, and small improvements—not just grades.
Show them that learning doesn’t stop after school—it continues for life.
Join the Conversation!
Have you or your child recently learned something new? I’d love to hear about your learning experiences—drop a comment below!
