What is your teaching philosophy?

A global perspective on educational topics provides a well-rounded understanding of the issue and surrounding circumstances. Holistic understanding of a topic will lead to greater success.

What might you do in a typical first session with a student?

Assess the greatest strengths and weaknesses of a student as well as get an idea of their learning style. Hopefully they can get to know me, and vice versa, to feel comfortable in a new learning environment that will produce a positive and professional dynamic.

How can you help a student become an independent learner?

My teaching style requires students to understand the questions that I am asking and why. I am happy to teach, but hard work is expected from the student in order to move forward on their own and ask good questions.

How would you help a student stay motivated?

Motivation can lag when a student is disinterested! In assessing the student's best learning style, I hope to cater to their interests using practical examples or visuals. I also ask a lot of questions to mark progress or areas that require greater attention. I think that my positive attitude will help a student remain engaged with the lesson as well.

If a student has difficulty learning a skill or concept, what would you do?

Everyone struggles with some subjects, so taking the time to slow down or rephrase a concept or question is expected in my opinion. I expect students to honestly communicate when they do not understand a concept or topic, and I am happy to review it with them as needed. Using different examples and explaining ideas in ways that a student can relate to are some simple techniques I have used.

How do you help students who are struggling with reading comprehension?

Patience is my answer to reading comprehension concerns. If there are words or sounds that do not seem quite right, I would take the time to help a student understand their mistakes and how to correct them. My goal is that in the delivery of my criticism, the student finds the advice constructive rather than frustrating. Everyone learns at different paces, and improving that pace takes time and effort that I am willing to provide.

How do you build a student's confidence in a subject?

Confidence is key! From my experience, when students struggle due to a lack in confidence, it is frequently misplaced and they often know more than they think they do. Positive reinforcement through encouragement and careful delivery of correcting mistakes allows my students to learn in a positive environment. I am confident in their abilities, and they should be too.

How do you evaluate a student's needs?

Every student's needs vary and must be constantly reassessed and readjusted. This is the beauty of tutoring in small groups or one-on-one, where greater attention to individuals can be provided. I ask many questions to gauge the starting point of a student's knowledge of a topic, and where they need to be to do well in the classroom and have an adequate understanding of concepts.

What types of materials do you typically use during a tutoring session?

Whatever materials the student has available regularly are the materials that I would use. Practice makes perfect, and my sessions should mirror what their classroom activities would look like so that they are keeping up with peers, if not excelling on a daily basis. If special materials or technologies are required, please provide advance notice or supply these materials for the tutoring sessions.