What is your teaching philosophy?

I feel that every student's needs are different, and it's important to assist each student in a way that addresses their particular talents and areas that need improvement. I also feel that teaching should be about learning to think and understand-- not simply memorizing information. One important way to facilitate learning is by finding ways to connect the subject to the student's life experience and existing interests. Research shows people in general remember information better if it means something to them.

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

Assess in greater depth the student's needs, what areas within the subject of the tutoring they are strong and weak in, and what the nature and degree of the desired improvement are, as well as the student's general interests and goals. I would speak to the student about their relationship to the subjects we are to work on, and depending on the subject might try them out on some practice problems or questions.

How can you help a student become an independent learner?

By helping them learn to think critically, to use appropriate methods of analysis, and to understand the conceptual underpinnings of the subjects they struggle with. Helping students to enjoy learning and connect it with their own interests, and to understand how their interests and life goals relate to the subject at hand, will also aid them in learning independently.

How would you help a student stay motivated?

I would help a student stay motivated by reminding them of their initial motivation at relevant times. I would also help the student to see a long class or course of study as composed of many smaller units, and to break it down conceptually into more manageable chunks.