What is your teaching philosophy?

People learn best by hands-on learning and examples. I try to supplement my teaching with images, real-world analogies, and even experiments.

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

I would get to know the student and learn about what they're favorite subject is in school. Once I know their strengths, I can use that information to aid in teaching.

How would you help a student stay motivated?

Success is the best motivation. Once a student has grasped a concept, I encourage the student to practice several times to solidify the information.

How can you help a student become an independent learner?

I help a student become an independent learner by having them practice the material once they understand it. Practice makes perfect!

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

I relate the information to a topic they enjoy. Combining this technique with visual concept-driven explanations and hands-on examples has proven to be very effective, in my experience.

What strategies have you found to be most successful when you start to work with a student?

I found that taking time to get to know a student can be very effective when we run into a wall. Knowing how a student handles frustration is immensely helpful! Also, knowing the student's passions is useful when trying to relate difficult subject material.

How would you help a student get excited/engaged with a subject that they are struggling in?

Again, I find relating the information to something they enjoy to be invaluable. Whether it's music, soccer or even food (I once taught fractions using pizza)!

What techniques would you use to be sure that a student understands the material?

Here visual concept-driven explanations are key, especially for math and science. Additionally, having the students do the work themselves is key to driving the learning home.

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

Practice, practice, practice! The more the student practices their work with immediate feedback, the better they will feel about their knowledge.