
Desiree
Certified Tutor
Undergraduate Degree: Florida State University - Bachelors, Biological Sciences
What is your teaching philosophy?
I believe that each child is a unique individual who needs a secure, caring, and stimulating atmosphere in which to grow and mature emotionally, intellectually, physically, and socially. It is my desire as an educator to help students meet their fullest potential in these areas by providing an environment that is safe, supports risk-taking, and invites a sharing of ideas.
What might you do in a typical first session with a student?
Find out their strengths and weaknesses. That will determine how we will approach the material.
How can you help a student become an independent learner?
By the method I call "I do. We do. You Do." Basically, the method promotes independent learning and encourages the student to branch off on their own. First, I will model the problem and/or example. Next, we will work through a similar problem together. Then, I will allow the child to work on their own to navigate through the problem.
How would you help a student stay motivated?
Students tend to feed off of the energy they are given. It is extremely important to always give positive energy and encourage the child every step of the way, even when they do not understand a problem.
What techniques would you use to be sure that a student understands the material?
In order to ensure the student understands the material, throughout the lesson I would have the child explain in a few words what we just went over. It would also be helpful to give the child a short quiz at the end.
How do you build a student's confidence in a subject?
By providing words of encouragement throughout the lessons.
What types of materials do you typically use during a tutoring session?
I use a variety of manipulatives and hands-on activities to support content standards and the needs and capacities of the individual. Some manipulatives include clocks, blocks, currency, and cubes.
How would you help a student get excited/engaged with a subject that they are struggling in?
Apply the subject to real-life situations they can relate to.
How do you evaluate a student's needs?
By providing pre/post assessments.