What is your teaching philosophy?

I believe that a great teacher is a facilitator or guide. I aim to inspire and encourage students to problem-solve independently, helping them to build confidence, independence, and ultimately a love of learning.

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

I would first find out what lead the student to seek tutoring. I would pose the following questions: Did a parent/guardian or teacher encourage them? What do they hope to get out of tutoring? Is there goal to improve a grade, or is mastery more important? I would find also find out what kind of resources the student is currently to include textbooks, workbooks, and other online resources. I would ask the student to upload some samples of questions or problems they need help with. At that point, we can get to work!

How can you help a student become an independent learner?

I can help students become independent learners by actively involve them in the learning process, encouraging them with repeated practice that ultimately leads to mastery and confidence.

How would you help a student stay motivated?

Positive affirmations and encouragement are key.

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

First, I would remain patient and change up my approach until I'm able to find a way to reach them, taking into account their unique learning style.

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

I would start with reading materials that are just below their current (expected) reading level, asking them simple questions to build confidence. From there, I would build up to higher reading levels, encouraging more comprehension of more complex concepts.

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

I employ patience, positive affirmations, and the use of repetition of practice problems.

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

I think it's important to find out what subjects the student excels in or is interested in first. I would then work to explore linkages between the subjects they enjoy and those they are struggling with.

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

I would employ friendly drilling, repetition, and assign additional work to be completed outside of the tutoring session.