Elizabeth
Certified Tutor
Undergraduate Degree: University of Redlands - Bachelors, Political Science/Accounting
Hiking, swimming, cooking, reading, taking my Golden Retreiver to dog beach
Homework Support
Other
Study Skills
Study Skills and Organization
Summer
What is your teaching philosophy?
I believe that learning can be fun. I like to use games and technology when possible. I believe there are three broad learning styles: visual, auditory and kinesthetic (hands-on). I like to figure out what learning styles work best for each student and then tailor my teaching to their style of learning.
What might you do in a typical first session with a student?
In a first session, I like to establish clear, measurable goals. I ask questions and get to know the student better. I like to get an idea about their academic background, successes and struggles. I like to hear from the student on what they would like to accomplish during our tutoring sessions.
How can you help a student become an independent learner?
Tutoring is more than helping a student come up with the right answer. It's about teaching students how to think, how to problem solve, and how to find the answers themselves.
How would you help a student stay motivated?
Tracking your progress is a great way to help a student stay motivated. If they can see improvement than they are likely to stay with you and continue working towards the goals that you set together.
If a student has difficulty learning a skill or concept, what would you do?
If a student had difficulty with a skill or concept, I would break it down into digestible chunks. Then, I would map out the skill in a way that the student could follow. Next, I would question the student in a way that allowed them to apply the skill. If they couldn't apply it, then we would go back to the map.
How do you help students who are struggling with reading comprehension?
I try to help students become active readers. I teach them how to skim the subject headings, use pictures to predict what the material is about, take reading notes, and ask and answer questions about the reading passage.
How would you help a student get excited/engaged with a subject that they are struggling in?
I like to have fun and play games when possible. If they can focus on the game, then they forget about the struggle and the frustration. In addition, I try to build confidence in students. It may have been a struggle in the past, but it won't be in the future.
What techniques would you use to be sure that a student understands the material?
I test the student's understanding with questions. I ask students to apply what they've learned in a follow-up question. Sometimes I will ask students to put the material in their own words, or I'll ask them to explain a concept to me.
How do you build a student's confidence in a subject?
I build confidence by using positive reinforcement. I explain to students that, while we are in tutoring, this is their time to learn. It's okay to make mistakes as long as we learn from them. I try to make students feel very comfortable, and I encourage them to ask questions. I help them develop a deeper understanding of the material and that generally leads to increased confidence.