What is your teaching philosophy?

My teaching philosophy is that the focus is on getting the students interested and understanding why the subject matter is important in the grand scheme of things. If they are motivated, then they will not only understand the material but they will make this process easier for both themselves and the tutor.

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

In the first session, I would like to understand the student better, both personally and academically. I want to get a grasp of what they are struggling with and what is the best way to address this problem.

How can you help a student become an independent learner?

To be an independent learner means to understand where they can access help when they need it. They have to take the initiative to ask for help and collaborate with others. This means that they will be accountable to others and not just their teachers.

How would you help a student stay motivated?

I try to relate the material to "real world" matters. I show them how the subject matter is important to things outside of the classroom.

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

If a student has difficulty understanding a concept or a skill, I try to do one of two tactics, or possibly both. The first, is to break the material down to its simplest level, and take 'baby steps' for them to understand the logic of the material. The second tactic is to relate the material to something to which the student is interested in or they have a full understanding of. This metaphorical technique will help them better understanding the concepts in which they are having difficulty with.