What is your teaching philosophy?

I firmly believe that no two students are the same. What works for one student may not work for another. Some students learn best by seeing (visual), some by hearing (auditory), others by touching (tactile), or a combination of these. Taken this belief into consideration, I pay close attention to the student during our first couple sessions and determine how the student learns best. I consider myself a Renaissance tutor because of my eclectic approach. I love to draw analogies from topics that interest the student.

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

First, I ask the student what s/he wants to accomplish with tutoring. I then diagnose what problems the students are facing (taking class notes, completing homework, understanding concepts). Lastly, I come up with a plan for a student to follow so that s/he can accomplish those goals.

How would you help a student stay motivated?

ENCOURAGEMENT. I have noticed that a little encouragement goes a long way. I empathize with the student (e.g. “this looks like a tough problem") and downplay the amount of work required for a problem (e.g. "see that wasn't so bad")

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

I would present the concept in a different perspective, making several pauses to check if the student is following or needs me to re-explain a certain part.

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

I would advise the student to read at a slow-leisure pace that allows him/her to understand the reading. S/he should make more pauses while reading, and summarize the material in his/her own words.

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

When starting to work with a student, it is important to establish a special bond with the student. You should make the student comfortable and trusting.

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

Students don't naturally dislike certain math or science subjects. They do so because they don't understand the material and it embarrasses them. To get the student excited/engaged, make sure the student fully comprehends the material in an amusing fashion.