What is your teaching philosophy?

Even the most complex material need not be difficult to understand and master. To this end, I subscribe to the KISS technique...Keep It Simple Student!

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

In a first session with a student, I assess the student's needs, strengths, and weaknesses. From there, I am able to customize the lessons to achieve optimal results. It's really all about the student.

How can you help a student become an independent learner?

Although not generally stressed in high school, critical thinking is quite important at the college level and in the work force. Thoroughly explaining concepts and reinforcing them with supplemental study materials contributes to independent learning.

How would you help a student stay motivated?

When motivation is an issue, I illustrate how the material is directly relevant to the student and how it impacts his or her daily life. Keeping it real (vs. lofty and theoretical) goes a long way in the motivation department.

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

A good tutor has a dozen different ways of explaining the same thing. Should a student not understand a skill or concept on the first try, I hone in on the student's strengths and re-explain the material in a fashion that capitalizes on those strengths.