What is your teaching philosophy?

I believe that everyone learns differently. By making a student excited about the subject through personal experiences, they will retain more information and look forward to their next session.

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

I would get to know a little of their past so I can approach the problems in a real-world situation that could apply to them. I'd ask how they usually study and what seems to work best. Of course, I would introduce myself as well and make sure they were comfortable with me.

How can you help a student become an independent learner?

During meetings would we work on solving the problems they present, but we would also go over studying techniques. I will only give help when needed to get them to solve problems on their own.

How would you help a student stay motivated?

I would encourage them and give them a high five when they got a question correct.

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

I would take more time to address it and try a few different ways to solve it. In mathematics, there is usually more than one way.

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

I find having them speak to me about past struggles can help eliminate those same struggles later on. Honesty and openness are very important.

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

For math, I will show them a visual representation on a calculator and/or give them a real-life sample. Before we move on, I would ask them to solve a question by themselves to make sure they are confident.

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

The best way to deal with a lot of these problems is to slow down and really practice them. Give your task your full attention and be patient with yourself.