What is your teaching philosophy?

I strive to work with every one of my students to build on their knowledge of topics, so that they have a full understanding of whatever subject we are working on. I use various teaching methods to ensure that my students learn the subject completely.

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

In a typical first session, I will cover some basic materials with the students, leading up to more complex subjects, to get an idea of where they are in their current knowledge. Then, I will build on the foundation that they currently have in the next sessions.

How can you help a student become an independent learner?

I will teach my students important skills to help them study on their own, so that they can continue to learn even when I am not around.

How would you help a student stay motivated?

I would use different learning materials until I found something that interested them. For example, I would use models, or visuals instead of lectures for some students, and vice versa.

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

Try a different approach in explaining it to them.

How do you help students who are struggling with reading comprehension?

Practice reading a lot of material, and going over it together. I especially like to have students read out-loud.

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

I approach subjects very enthusiastically myself, which often helps students get excited. I also use snacks sometimes, or educational games.

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

I would have the students work out problems and explain, step-by-step, what they are doing. This way, I can follow along and make sure that they understand the logic behind the answer.

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

I provide praise and acknowledgment when my students excel in a subject, and help them with constructive comments when they are struggling. I also remain positive myself, which helps them keep a positive attitude.

How do you evaluate a student's needs?

I use worksheets and practice problems, as well as just through conversation. I sit down with my students and ask them what they think they are doing well in and what they feel they are struggling in.

How do you adapt your tutoring to the student's needs?

I typically combine lecture with practice problems, and sometimes even additional problems for the student to work on when I am gone. If a student is responding well to something, I will do more of that. If a student dislikes something I am doing, for example, lecturing, I will do less of that.

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

Depending on the subject, I will typically get a textbook and a workbook with problems. I also sometimes use games to build cognitive functions.

What strategies have you found to be most successful when you start to work with a student?

I have found that working through actual problems tends to be the most successful with students.