What is your teaching philosophy?

Regardless of the initial motivation level, every student wants to do well. I welcome the challenge of working through the barriers to that student's first 'A' on a test or paper. NOTHING gets them to buy in like academic recognition!

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

I want to find out where the student is emotionally on the subject; I will engage the student in conversation that allows him/her to help me determine our starting point. Success often means meeting the student where he/she is.

How can you help a student become an independent learner?

Many students never have learned HOW to study; I help them learn to identify main ideas and how to go beyond what is simply before them.

How would you help a student stay motivated?

I point out the victories at all times. A student who has received a score of 55 on a test knows 55 percent of the material; 55 percent is enough to be elected president of the United States! I can always build on what a student knows to address deficiencies, and this will keep him/her engaged.

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

There is always at least one alternate method. I will use those as well as go back to the very beginning and rebuild the foundation in a subject.

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

Lack of reading comprehension is often the result of a weak vocabulary. I will stop with a student and define a word with the context around it. This always helps.

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

Listening is vital to building a working relationship with a student. I start by listening to them, and by sharing examples of other students with whom I have worked.

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

I always like to find out what the student's goals are occupationally. If the subject is required for success in that field, then that is a major resource. I like to find people doing cool things around the world who are making use of the subject.

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

Internet, everyday objects (marbles, food), and other tangible items can help students with concepts. I teach orbital theory in chemistry using peas as electrons!

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

I focus upon a student's strengths in a subject. From there, the student can augment his/her skill level by gradually adding other skills.

How do you evaluate a student's needs?

Listening to the student, reviewing past performance, and talking with parents.

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

Some students need to be guided intricately through tutoring; others need the confidence that comes from having his/her answers confirmed, while still others only need occasional help. I listen carefully to determine the type of student I am working with.

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

Dry erase boards, food items, pens of all colors, and a calculator if necessary. Whatever works!