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

In a first session, I like to spend a few minutes getting to know each other, and then spend some time discussing your knowledge/skill level in the subject so we can start at a level that is appropriate for you. From there, we can create a plan/roadmap for future tutoring.

How would you help a student stay motivated?

I help students stay motivated by reinforcing to them how much progress they have already made, a sort of mini-celebration of past successes. This can be reflected in improved grades, better test scores, or even just knowing a Jeopardy answer!

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

When a student is having difficulty with a concept, I like to approach it two different ways. I can break the task or concept down into separate parts, making sure each part is understood before working on the whole. I also approach the teaching from many different styles, using multimedia, real objects (for tactile learning), song, etc.

What types of materials do you typically use during a tutoring session?

Typically, I will use material provided for the course the student is studying. In addition, I will bring in relevant materials I may have or can locate that can either add to the richness of the lesson or that can augment the knowledge or skill. I also try to use multimedia whenever I can, be it PowerPoint or web materials. I firmly believe that a multi-sensory approach provides the greatest learning.

How do you help students who are struggling with reading comprehension?

Students who are struggling with reading can become better readers by being intentional readers; by learning skills such as questioning, clarifying, predicting, and making inferences from the text; and by making connections with what they already know. I teach these skills so students can learn to gain deeper comprehension from the material.