My teaching philosophy is that everyone can learn--we just all learn differently. Students learn using tactile, kinesthetic, visual, auditory, and written methods--sometimes, in more than one of those ways. I believe that it is not impossible to gain information if one is aware of their preferred way of learning.

A first session with a student would depend on the specific goals and needs of that student. I believe in first conducting an interest inventory to determine what interests a student. Learning is hardly fun when a student is not interested in the materials presented! From there, I can determine books to read, subjects to talk about, and materials to use that would keep the student interested in the subject we are learning.

I am a firm believer in scaffold instruction. One does not simply begin running--one learns to walk first. I can help a student become an independent learner by first helping them find the tools and important information that they need. From there, it is important to practice utilizing these tools and information. I would not allow them to simply figure it out on their own, but ease them into it; work together as a team and then slowly, I would begin to pull away and allow the student to use their skills with less and less of my assistance until eventually, they are running on their own.

It is important for students to feel confident in what they do. Every step is an achievement. Every achievement (no matter how small) is celebrated. Self-esteem and a joy for learning is key when staying motivated.