Sandra

What is your teaching philosophy?

Every person learns differently, and so everyone should have the chance to learn in the way that helps them to absorb information in the most lasting way. I can help you listen to or speak or write or draw or watch or touch the information so that you can understand it as fully as possible.

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

We would start with introductions and I would spend some time asking the student questions about their learning style, what they excel at, and what challenges them most. Then, we might play a content related game, and if there's any time left, we'll do a practice quiz and review the results together.

How can you help a student become an independent learner?

By asking them questions that will lead them to the answers rather than giving them the answers outright. Also, complimenting them for their work ethic rather than sheer intelligence fosters a desire to try harder rather than just get the correct answer.

How would you help a student stay motivated?

By keeping the lessons fun with games and activities that engage multiple senses.

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

Find something that they are really interested in and try to relate it to that. Also, playing to the student's predominant way of absorbing information helps (i.e. listening, watching, feeling, etc.).

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

Testing material early on, and then in stages as they learn helps them to get a tangible sense of how they've improved. Also, consistent encouragement and compliments on how they've "worked so hard and it has paid off" help.

How do you evaluate a student's needs?

First, I figure out how they best learn (i.e. hearing, watching, speaking, touching writing...), and ask them what they feel like their biggest challenges are. Also, testing them on the material can often ease out which specific areas they need the most help in.