What is your teaching philosophy?

At the very beginning of our exploration of this world, we start to mimic what we see, model what others like us do. It's our first learning experience. It's the most efficient and successful tool we have at our disposal. Learning mathematics is no exception. Then begins the "why" phase. This phase is just as important. In order to truly learn a child wants to know why it works. Through understanding of the deeper concept, a more substantial memory is formed. This helps us recall the key concepts much more effectively and quickly. This happens when the concepts makes sense and seem reasonable rather than random and confusing. The use of these key concepts is not solely to memorize temporarily but to increase our problem solving skills, relate the process of solving the problem to another problem, and use the same process logically. This process can include solving all kinds of problems, not just mathematics but across the board to other contents and daily situations that require troubleshooting and reason. Once the concepts can be utilized in a variety of ways, this opens the way for exploration of the concepts. Thinking about other possibilities and situations that may arise creates an environment for higher learning and deeper understanding. This opens the mind to higher order thinking. When the mind processes information this way, retention is inevitable

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

Learn what they know! You don't always know what you don't know.

How can you help a student become an independent learner?

Thinking critically is key. Asking questions such as, "What are they asking me?" and "What type of answer am I looking for?" are important questions to start looking for your answers.

How would you help a student stay motivated?

Think positive! What have you accomplished so far? You will get there! Just keep working!

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

Try another way! Everyone learns differently. There is nothing wrong with that!

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

Read, re-read! Write it out. Stay organized, and read it again! It doesn't matter how many times you need to read the problem, all that matters is understanding what they are asking you. Do what you have to do in order to get it done!

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

Understanding their learning style is the key component to meeting their needs.

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

Find and focus on something that they are successful with within the subject. Build on the positive foundation.

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

Asking questions is the best way to get a student thinking about the concept that is being presented.

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

Build on what they already know! Relate it to what they are learning, and help them find a connection.

How do you evaluate a student's needs?

Look at the student's strengths and weaknesses. Do they need more modeling, conceptual exercises, or do they need to relate the material in order to retain it more efficiently?

How do you adapt your tutoring to the student's needs?

Evaluate the student's learning style. Adjust accordingly. If the student is more visual, write down examples, let them see what is happening, and challenge them to figure out why it's happening.

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

Visual aids, examples, calculator, whiteboard, drawing utensils, among other needed items.