What is your teaching philosophy?

Lifelong learning and the pursuit of growth.

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

Make a list prioritizing what tasks need to be completed first, second, third, and so on within a tutoring session. This is so we can use our time efficiently.

How can you help a student become an independent learner?

Teach study skills as well as facts!

How would you help a student stay motivated?

Emphasize that in acquiring knowledge, there will days where it will seem harder than usual to pick up a new skill. The key is to stay positive and keep working at it!

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

Focus on this particular skill/concept in depth by giving this area extra practice while attacking it from a variety of angles. Sometimes, a new perspective is the key.

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

While reading or taking a test, slow down and focus on what is directly in front of you. Meanwhile, read articles and books in your downtime, as practice is key.

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

Build trust between me and the student by demonstrating knowledge of the subject, or arriving at the right answer in the least amount of time when solving a difficult challenge.

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

Mention or look up examples of the subject within the context of real life, i.e. genetic modification used in treating cancer patients, or chemistry being used to create new equipment and tools.

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

Have him or her explain the material in his/her own words. Ask the student to teach the material back to me as if I were a student myself.

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

Keep reminding them of how far they have come from where they started. Give them exercises that drive home the message that they know more now than they had before.

How do you evaluate a student's needs?

Ask them about their prior knowledge of subjects, and note areas of knowledge that may need some improvement or practice. Or, I would give them sample questions relating to the material and see how they go about answering them.

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

Always stay engaged with the student. Stay aware of how they are receiving the material. If they show signs of confusion or discouragement, address this immediately with "Do you understand?" or "Any questions so far?"

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

Paper, pen, pencil, and sometimes a whiteboard with dry erase marker. Laptop plus internet is also a very useful tool. Students should definitely be knowledgeable in how to wisely use the resources they have at hand.