What is your teaching philosophy?

I believe that all students can achieve. I think that breaking large ideas or concepts into smaller parts makes them more understandable. I believe in tailoring sessions to a student's learning style (visual, auditory, etc.)

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

Review goals for sessions. What does the student feel they need and what do they want to accomplish?

How can you help a student become an independent learner?

In becoming an independent learner, the most important things are time management and figuring out one's learning style. Does the student learn better by copying something, reading it out loud or looking at a picture? Can they figure out how to break something down into smaller bits and start earlier rather than cram? Identifying what works best for the student (which can be different for each person) and making a plan are essential to become independent.