What is your teaching philosophy?

My teaching philosophy is to always have a positive attitude, and to meet my student's educational needs.

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

It is important that we build a positive relationship together to optimize the experience. I would like to introduce a short ice-breaking tactic and share some background on myself. It is essential we build strong self-confidence in the student.

How can you help a student become an independent learner?

By not telling them the answer, but rather showing them how to get to it, building up their self-confidence.

How would you help a student stay motivated?

Motivation falters when the fear of failure is presented. One of my goals is to help them understand it is okay to fail, but what defines you is how you bounce back. Being an athlete myself has helped me develop this outlook.

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

This is where I (tutors) come in. It is my responsibility to come up with new tactics to help them grasp the subject. So if they aren't getting it one way, I will try another method.

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

-Listening very carefully -Remaining optimistic -Act as an equal -Showing interest in what they are saying -Be friendly -Create an enjoyable learning environment

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

One of my mentors told me to always prove an answer twice. In other words, once we have come to the result, I will challenge them to prove it to me again in another way. Also, to explain to me their logic behind the answers.

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

Rewarding them, whether that be a high-five or simple "great job", helps boost their confidence. Showing them that what they accomplished was a big deal and they should be proud of themselves.