What is your teaching philosophy?

Teachers are required to teach children for 7 hours a day and fit in all of the standards that we are supposed to teach within those 7 hours. In order to do this, we have to completely know our students. We have to be able to identify their strengths and weaknesses, their abilities within in the classroom, their interests, as well as keep track of their emotional and social capabilities. In order to do this we have to be effective in everything we have to do. Effective learning requires a collaboration between the teacher, student, and parent in mutual respect and trust. Children learn best when you relate what they are learning to those interests that you are aware of. Incorporating those meaningful learning experiences will allow students to see the practicality of what they are learning. Accommodating diverse learners will only create success in the classroom.

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

In a typical first session, I will identify the student's strengths and weaknesses, interests, and learning style. In order to be the best tutor I can be, I need to really know the student in order to cater to the student and to know where to begin instruction. Then I would assess the student's knowledge in the subject so that I can evaluate their skills and understanding of the subject. During the first session, I will clearly set the tone and expectations so that every tutoring session is successful. Not only will I find out information about the student but I will tell the student a little about myself. It's important to create a positive relationship, and by telling the student my own interests and experiences, it will allow the teacher - student relationship to be built on trust and respect.

How can you help a student become an independent learner?

In order to help a student become an independent learner, you have to model those specific learning skills. During a tutoring session you can model those specific skills to help a student become more independent. Helping students identify learning outcomes, determine their learning style, and help locate resources can help a student become more independent. If you teach these skills, help model them, and really work with the student to establish the skills; it will help them become more independent learners.

How would you help a student stay motivated?

In order to keep a student motivated, you have to give them a sense of control. That will allow for motivation to complete the task they picked to do. Allow them to choose from a list to complete and they get to choose which ones they want to do. Defining objectives of the assignment will allow the student to know your expectations. If you do not identify them, a student may not know what is expected of them and will often get discouraged or will no longer be motivated if the objectives aren't clearly stated. Allowing varied experiences in the learning process allows a student to say motivated. Creating lessons that are hands on experiences will allow the student to become motivated to complete an assignment. If you have students complete worksheets every day, it will make them want to shut down not complete their learning objectives. Offering rewards within student's learning in an excellent source of motivation. Everyone loves rewards, and if you know the student's interests you can provide a great deal of motivation with a reward that they would enjoy.