What is your teaching philosophy?

My teaching philosophy is very simple. I believe that the tutor is a learning guide, providing well thought out answers to questions along with helpful resources to assist the students. With all this provided, one can hold high expectations for their students. It feels incredibly rewarding watching students grow and evolve in their mathematical journeys.

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

On a typical first session with a student, I would begin by getting to know the student. I would try to get a sense of their perspective of math, and the course they need help in. I would explain to them how I tutor. Lastly, I would look at their syllabus and book with them, and make a plan for our future sessions.

How would you help a student stay motivated?

Often, motivation comes from understanding and success. I would help my students stay motivated by paying close attention to where they are at in their progress and providing them with problems that are at their level. By doing this, they will do well and want to learn more.

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

I would encourage them that they do have the ability to learn this difficult concept, as they have before. Then I would find different ways of teaching them and present them the next time we met. I might also create some problems for them catered to where they are at in their progress.

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

I would tell them about my philosophy about learning. I believe that they can learn anything they want to, but learning requires time and hard work. I am here to help them with these concepts that may seem difficult. I will provide them with personalized explanations and problems that are at their level. I will also explain that we will be able to work at their pace and provide as much help as they need, which is often not provided in a typical classroom setting.

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

In mathematics, a student understands the material well when they can solve problems pertaining to that concept. They understand even better when they can explain the concept and their solutions to problems. I will make sure to provide problems for my students to work on and have conversations about the concepts, even after we have moved on to new material.

How do you build a student's confidence in a subject?

Confidence is built through hard work and understanding. Therefore, the student's confidence will build through the work we put in together, and they put in independently, to learn the concepts in a deep and meaningful way, and be able to solve problems. I will work with them to solve problems as well as provide them some to work on their own.

What types of materials do you typically use during a tutoring session?

During a tutoring session, I always have a book or two in the subject on hand. I also have my own notes on many subjects as well as reliable internet resources.