What is your teaching philosophy?

I try to see a lecture as a conversation between myself and the student. I encourage questions and discussion in order to gauge his or her levels of understanding of the course material.

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

In a first session, I would make sure that the lines of communication are open between us. I want to know if the student is having trouble understanding something that he can absolutely ask me any question without feeling self-conscious.

How can you help a student become an independent learner?

I can help encourage independent learning skills by taking the time to talk through the thought process behind each new academic skill. If the techniques we use together are practiced regularly, they can soon be performed without my help in an exam setting.

How would you help a student stay motivated?

I help students stay motivated by giving plenty of encouragement and praise, and by paying special attention to what she is doing correctly--without focusing too much on mistakes.

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

I would try to brainstorm different ways of explaining the concept. Everyone learns differently--it's usually just a question of communicating in a clearer manner, or looking at the problem from a new angle.

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

I like to try and relate the material in the form of a story. Everyone understands stories; they are deeply familiar to us. If the student can learn to think of the material in this way, it's often much easier to comprehend what's being relayed.

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

I like to format the lesson as an open discussion, where we both ask questions of each other. If the student asks me a question, and I explain the answer, I'll usually follow that up with another question about the material to make sure they've grasped the concept.

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

I try always to focus on what he is doing right, and to be sure to encourage him as he builds new and unfamiliar skills.

How do you evaluate a student's needs?

I begin each primary session with a conversation during which the student and I discuss what she is struggling with at the moment, and then I try to pay very close attention to any progression or setbacks as we work towards her goals.