
David: Bethlehem tutor
Certified Tutor
Undergraduate Degree: Geneva College - Bachelors, Electrical Engineering
Graduate Degree: Carnegie Mellon University - Masters, Energy Science, Technology & Policy
Sports, Chess, Reading
What is your teaching philosophy?
Personally, I believe that a problem well stated is a problem half solved! By being an attentive listener and observant, I have found my teaching to be more effective for addressing the needs of each student I assist. Nevertheless, I also enjoy exploring new fun and cool examples with my students, which can help them to experience the true beauty of each subject they learn.
What might you do in a typical first session with a student?
I would likely begin with some introduction between myself and the student, followed by a brief discussion on their current and future academic pursuits. Thereafter, an in-depth discussion with the student will take place where his/her specific needs are identified, subject areas highlighted for focus, and a course of action decided upon to achieve desired goals for the tutoring session(s).
How can you help a student become an independent learner?
By encouraging the student to develop a habit of revising taught concepts and examples for each topic, along with attempting daily exercises and compiling a formula sheet for each topic covered.
How would you help a student stay motivated?
I will assist the student in identifying a set of goals they would like to achieve for the given subject. From there, I will work with the student in organizing my tutoring session to cater for those identified goals, and have the student routinely practice related problems to increase their confidence and understanding of the subject.