What is your teaching philosophy?

Teaching and learning should be tailored to meet the individualized needs of every student. I incorporate visual, tactile, and other aids to cater to students' learning styles. Since a child must make themselves vulnerable in order to learn, I treat each student with respect and kindness. Creating a safe and effective learning environment is very important to me. Additionally, I place equal emphasis on the acquisition of conceptual understanding and technical skill and ability.

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

I'll assess what the student needs and wants. I'll ask a series of questions to see where the student is academically and emotionally.

How can you help a student become an independent learner?

Autonomy comes from knowledge. I believe in a gradual release of responsibility from teacher to student. The use of scaffolds, or supports, in questions is one way to provide gradual release, and eventually, independence.

How would you help a student stay motivated?

I provide goal setting as part of sessions. When a student reaches a goal I'll reward them.

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

It depends on the student. However, I try to get to the bottom of where the student gets stuck through patient questioning. Once I know where the gap is I provide support to fill the gap with new knowledge and know how.