What is your teaching philosophy?

I am a follower of brain research. I believe that the brain of the modern child has different pathways than when I was a little girl. Today's student has different needs, and it is a challenge for the regular educational system to meet some of our unique children. One on one learning is the best way to make sure that a child is being served. Large class sizes, and limited time, prevent some students from being successful; this is where tutoring works wonders.

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

Getting to know my student and talking with him/her and getting to know some of his/her likes and dislikes and even what he/she struggles with will be very important in understanding what direction the lessons should go. It's a learning process, and it’s also a team project.

How can you help a student become an independent learner?

Independence is developed with age and reinforcement. The more adults do for children, the more dependent the child becomes. The more I can get my student to work on his own, the more independent he becomes. If I give into whining or excuses, the child will learn not learn to be independent. On the other hand, it is very possible that the child has not been taught to work independently and have learned to rely upon other people reminding him or constantly guiding her. Virtual learning needs a certain degree of independence. Patience and gentle reminders will gradually cause the child to enjoy doing things by himself.

How would you help a student stay motivated?

Studies have shown that the mind is constantly looking for sense and reason. If it does not make sense or if it is not able to reasoned, that student will find it hard to be engaged. Today's student is constantly looking for mental stimulation. The trick is to make the information as understandable as possible, so that the student is able to make sense of the information. Figuring out what motivates the student, is also the key to a positive learning environment.