Desiree
Certified Tutor
“Service is the rent we pay for the space we occupy.” This description shines a light of understanding on the importance of service in all endeavors, as it is the cornerstone of a fulfilling existence. Service is the foundation upon which all productivity is laid. I ensure that its significance serves as a constant reminder to embrace the importance of giving freely of one’s time and talents. As an academic scholar, I realize that my inner motivation for academic success was cultivated through the service of others. For what is the true measure of an individual who gains knowledge yet fails her community? It is extremely important for me to give back by means of helping others reach their full potential through tutoring. I was very fortunate to have encountered many individuals who took the time to teach me life’s most vital principles such as the power of self-belief and the necessity of self-determination. Equipped with such lessons, I became a diligent individual who possessed the courage to set rigorous goals. This is my way of paying it forward.
Connect with a tutor like Desiree
Undergraduate Degree: Florida State University - Bachelors, Biological Sciences
What is your teaching philosophy?
I believe that each child is a unique individual who needs a secure, caring, and stimulating atmosphere in which to grow and mature emotionally, intellectually, physically, and socially. It is my desire as an educator to help students meet their fullest potential in these areas by providing an environment that is safe, supports risk-taking, and invites a sharing of ideas.
What might you do in a typical first session with a student?
Find out their strengths and weaknesses. That will determine how we will approach the material.
How can you help a student become an independent learner?
By the method I call "I do. We do. You Do." Basically, the method promotes independent learning and encourages the student to branch off on their own. First, I will model the problem and/or example. Next, we will work through a similar problem together. Then, I will allow the child to work on their own to navigate through the problem.
How would you help a student stay motivated?
Students tend to feed off of the energy they are given. It is extremely important to always give positive energy and encourage the child every step of the way, even when they do not understand a problem.
What techniques would you use to be sure that a student understands the material?
In order to ensure the student understands the material, throughout the lesson I would have the child explain in a few words what we just went over. It would also be helpful to give the child a short quiz at the end.
How do you build a student's confidence in a subject?
By providing words of encouragement throughout the lessons.
What types of materials do you typically use during a tutoring session?
I use a variety of manipulatives and hands-on activities to support content standards and the needs and capacities of the individual. Some manipulatives include clocks, blocks, currency, and cubes.
How would you help a student get excited/engaged with a subject that they are struggling in?
Apply the subject to real-life situations they can relate to.
How do you evaluate a student's needs?
By providing pre/post assessments.