What is your teaching philosophy?

The student is the priority, and every student learns differently and has their own needs. As an educator, I assess student's needs first, and teach the material in a way that best suits the student.

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

Depending on the student's needs, I will assess their learning style and which areas they are needing the most help in. I have an agenda for every session.

How can you help a student become an independent learner?

By arming the student with study skills that have proven successful for me as a science student with a master's degree. Once my students start to think and study like a science student, everything else falls into place.

How would you help a student stay motivated?

Motivation stems from generating interest in the material itself, and making real-life connections. I try and make the material as applicable as possible to my students, and pique their interest. Having a master's degree, I can also encourage them to stay motivated by thinking long-term.

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

When a student has trouble with a concept or question, I re-phrase my explanation and then re-ask the student so they see the answer themselves. I try to never flat out give the answer.

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

I have tutored these students before, and I approach the session with a sensitivity to their needs. I try to push them to their limits with the material, and strive to drive home the concept in the end.

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

I introduce myself and let the student feel at ease. Trust is what counts. Then, I give all of my students "4 Tips" that allow them to think and study like a science student. Once we go over these, we refer back to them throughout the 1st lesson to drive the points home. This typically increases their confidence.