What is your teaching philosophy?

Everyone is capable of learning. Nobody is inherently "stupid"- some subjects are more challenging for some than others, and that has more to do with interest than intelligence. Learning is an enriching experience, but it has to be approached with a light heart and with the right foundations, or else it can be stressful and hurtful.

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

It's most important to me to learn about the student's interests- even if that isn't the area they need help with. I would ask them to tell me about times when they felt learning was most enjoyable for them- for example, classes and teachers who enriched them. From there, I would work with them to create a goal plan, where they list their goals for the next session, for the end of the month, and for the end of their studies in that subject.

How can you help a student become an independent learner?

Independent learning is not about coercion. I'm passionate about learning not because of my teachers, but because I found a personal connection with learning. I want to show my passion for learning, and help the student find their own passions in learning. Often, traditional education doesn't leave students with room to grow into their own love of learning. My goal would be to teach them how independent learning can be a positive experience, and not a harsh and unreachable expectation.

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

I'm a writer myself, and an avid reader. Depending on the student's level, I could recommend and even lend them books that suit their reading level. I would also love to write short stories for my students, based on their input and interests. Reading comprehension is best approached from a place of the student's interest.

How would you help a student stay motivated?

First of all, it is important to frankly ask a student why a concept is confusing them. Often, if the student can be specific about why a concept is confusing, it is easier to explain the concept. I would try changing the method of communicating the idea or find new resources to help communicate the idea.

How do you evaluate a student's needs?

The best way to know what a student needs is to ask them. Even young students are surprisingly knowledgeable about their weaknesses and strengths. The second-best way is to examine their work and learn their abilities through working with them and analyzing their successes and mistakes. It is important to cultivate an accepting atmosphere to ensure that a student feels comfortable expressing confusion.

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

The best way to build confidence is to over prepare. If the student can explain the content so well that it is almost automatic, they feel more confident in their knowledge. Another way to build confidence is to remind the student of things they have already mastered. Reminding the student of their own proficiency and having them demonstrate it helps reaffirm their confidence in the material.

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

I use a wide variety of materials. The Internet is a wonderful place to find free and easily accessible materials for students. Most tests have multiple full practice tests that can be found with a few searches. Graphics are easily accessed via Google Image Search. I also enjoy making my own materials, usually by combining web materials or constructing my own questions.