The realm of private tutoring has been constantly evolving in response to changing educational settings, advancements in technology, shifts in societal values, and emerging pedagogic theories. The future of this industry, much like any other, is rife with uncertainties, potentialities, and interesting turns. In this post, we shall delve into the predictions and trends that are poised to shape the tutoring industry, and consequently, the profile of the 'great tutor' of the future.

The rise of e-tutoring and digital platforms has undoubtedly brought a paradigm shift in the tutoring industry. Conceived through algorithmic models, and reinforced by the Theory of Connectivism - a learning theory for the digital age that posits that learning occurs through networks and digital platforms - e-tutoring has expanded the geographical reach of tutors, dismantling the physical constraints of traditional in-person tutoring. It also offers a treasure trove of resources for tailored teaching, making it possible to adjust the pace, level, and method of instruction to individual learner needs. However, the tech-determined e-tutoring model is not without its shortcomings. It may not fully cater to the affective dimensions of learning, such as motivation, encouragement, and empathy, which are often more effectively addressed in face-to-face interactions.

The discourse of the 'flipped classroom' is likely to permeate the tutoring industry in the coming years. The term, first coined by Jonathan Bergmann and Aaron Sams, refers to a pedagogical model where students gain initial exposure to new material outside of class, usually via reading or lecture videos, and then use class time to do the harder work of assimilating that knowledge through problem-solving, discussion, or debates. This model challenges the traditional role of tutors as the core knowledge providers, and repositions them as facilitators and guides. The foreseeable future could see tutors embracing this role on a larger scale, venturing beyond academic aid to become life coaches or mentors, guiding students in areas such as goal setting, time management, and career planning.

Pertinent, too, in the landscape of future tutoring, is the concept of 'peer tutoring' - a form of tutoring that involves students of similar academic levels tutoring each other, based on the principles of Vygotsky's Zone of Proximal Development. While this model could democratize the tutoring industry by reducing the need for professional tutors, it will nevertheless require skilled tutors to train, supervise, and ensure quality control among peer tutors.

The future of tutoring is also likely to be influenced by developments in cognitive science. The Learning Sciences, a transdisciplinary field that studies how people learn and how to design effective instructional materials, could bring about a more scientific, research-informed approach to tutoring. This could lead to the emergence of ‘learning engineer’ tutors, who design learning experiences based on principles derived from cognitive science and psychology.

The integration of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in tutoring is another trend that could significantly redefine the industry. AI tutoring systems, underpinned by Machine Learning algorithms, can provide adaptive, personalized learning experiences, instant feedback, and continuous assessment of students. However, AI cannot replace the human touch in tutoring, the inspiring stories, the words of wisdom, and the emotional connection that often makes a significant difference in a student's learning journey.

In conclusion, the future of great tutors will be influenced by myriad factors, from technological advancements to new pedagogical theories. The successful tutors of the future will likely be those who can seamlessly integrate these elements into their practice, creating a blend of tradition and innovation, a synergy of human touch and technology, and a balance of knowledge provision and facilitation. They will be the ones who can adapt to the changing landscape, while remaining steadfast in their commitment to foster learning, growth, and success among their students.