What is your teaching philosophy?

It is within my philosophy of teaching that students should familiarize themselves with the traditions -- intellectual, creative, spiritual -- of our world so that they can better understand theirs. I feel that essentially every intention when interacting with their environment should be sparked or followed by a curiosity of the relationships we observe with our senses. As an educator, it is our role to provide meaningful opportunities for personal growth and create grounds that encourage lifelong learning.

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

Not only is in important to evaluate where your student needs support, but it is equally as important to learn the student's learning style as well as their interests. Some ways I would incorporate learning the needs, learning styles, and interests of my student include fun questionnaires, quick board games that have prompts of likes and dislikes, and a learning style inventory where the students takes part in learning about him- or herself.

How can you help a student become an independent learner?

I first figure out the best method they are taught and their learning styles. Once this is figured out, I create a learning plan that fits their strengths. There is no "one size fits all" approach. Once this is discovered and taught, I can make sure this method is realized by the student so they can apply this to their personal studies alone.