What is your teaching philosophy?

My teaching philosophy is to always be kind, funny and understanding. I feel that these three attributes can take one far in life. For teaching, nothing is more important. We were all taught knowing little or next to nothing! Teaching should be fun, adventurous and fulfilling for everyone.

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

I get to know them and assess their strengths and weaknesses. I also try to understand if they're a visual or auditory learner.

How can you help a student become an independent learner?

I help by motivating them and giving them a confidence boost by seeing and uncovering their true potential! Everyone has it; it's just a matter of letting it be apparent.

How would you help a student stay motivated?

I do this by following up with them regularly and making them feel comfortable in terms of communication, whether it be via text, phone, or email. I'm cool with all three!

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

I go over it and find new ways to explain or break down a concept for them, just to piece it all back together! That AHA! moment is priceless.

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

I find out what it is about reading comprehension that they find difficult. Typically it's just a little self-confidence boost, some practice and getting down the practice that leads to becoming an avid reader!

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

I try to really understand what they're good at and what it is that we need to work with. There's no beating around the bush, just getting straight to the point.

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

I do this by making it seem less intimidating than it really is, and that it can be done! I tell them that many students have done it before them, that they can do it too, and that many students will do it after them as well! I also make it fun by having a sense of humor.

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

I'd repeat it back to them, and then once they feel confident, have them repeat it back to me! I'd have them practice a similar problem, and demonstrate that they have good grasp of the concept. This is both for their confidence and for my peace of mind.

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

Practice, practice, practice builds confidence. Humor and well-timed breaks help too.