What is your teaching philosophy?

Every student has different needs. A tutor has to be flexible. We have the privilege of spending a lot of time on one student's needs, and as such, we have a responsibility to be creative and adaptable as to what works best for each student.

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

The first thing I do is get a feel for how the student feels about the subject. Find out what annoys them, what scares them, and why this particular subject is an area in need of extra help. Then, I try to assuage any fears or anxieties before starting on the actual material.

How can you help a student become an independent learner?

It's all about instilling confidence. I needed a math tutor in high school, and it made me feel like I was stupid. As soon as the student can lose any preconceived notions about themselves or their intellectual/academic abilities, they are freed up to put in their best effort.

How would you help a student stay motivated?

Show them that you actually care. Ask them about their interests and passions outside of school. Be a mentor in addition to a tutor.

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

Try and break the mold - get them out of the trap of thinking about the skill or concept in the same old way. Usually through some sort of creative exercise - drawing, music, writing, whatever they are into.