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

In a typical first session, I need to familiarize myself with the student. I need to know where they stand within their subject, as well as what aspects of it they find difficult or easy, and what their goals are for the topic. I ask what types of techniques have worked for them in the past (diagrams, flash cards, pictures, videos, worksheets, etc.) in order to find a style that will be most effective for them. From there, I can plan what materials to use accordingly.

How can you help a student become an independent learner?

Helping a student become an independent learner lies within their ability to ask questions about their topic. It's my goal to inspire students and have them feel genuinely interested in the subjects they're learning. This sets them up to be curious about their subject, and therefore ask questions which will make a deeper understanding more accessible. The ability to question paves the road to becoming an independent learner.

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

If a student has difficulty in learning a certain skill or concept, I try and come at it from a different angle. Not all students learn best using the same explanations or methods, and finding different ways to explain or display topics not only strengthens my ability to teach and understand, but also allows the student to find comprehension in different approaches. Not all students learn in the same ways, and my approach must be malleable in order to find success.

How would you help a student stay motivated?

My method to keeping students motivated is to stray away from a more traditional, classroom style of teaching. I aim to have the student be an active participant in the learning process, and find styles that best suit each individual to keep frustration at a minimum. I strongly encourage students to ask questions, no matter how trivial they may seem, as it genuinely paves the way for enthusiastic learning.