Brian
Certified Tutor
Undergraduate Degree: Ohio Wesleyan University - Bachelors, Politics and Government
Movies, Theatre, Video games, Comics, Literature, and Art
African-American History
AP Comparative Government and Politics
Civics
College Level American History
College Political Science
College World History
High School Biology
High School Level American History
High School Political Science
Political Science
Social Sciences
What is your teaching philosophy?
I believe that a teacher should work to make content relevant to students through modern connections, varied activities, and individualized work with students.
What might you do in a typical first session with a student?
On a typical first session, I would spend most of my time gathering the necessary information I would need to best serve the student. I would first explore what needs the student has, and what specific aspects of the subject they are having trouble with. Then I would find out more about them. What are their interests and hobbies? What subjects do they like? What do their favorite teachers do that helps them? Anything I think would help me to personalize my lessons toward them, and give them the best possible personalized treatment.
How can you help a student become an independent learner?
I spoke in my last answer about finding unique and specific methods of teaching students content that they are having trouble with. Once I begin to understand what methods work for my students and why, I will be able to pass on this information to them. I can teach them note taking strategies, study styles, research methods, or other procedures that I have designed with them in mind. Basically, I will give them the tools they need to succeed on their own.
How would you help a student stay motivated?
To help students get motivated, I would make my teaching as engaging as I can. Instead of just repeating the information to them, I will try to find new ways to organize it and make connections between that content and other things the student knows. Doing this is not only more entertaining than just learning facts, but it is also a way to encourage deeper education. Another way I help motivate students is to get to know them on a more personal level. By learning what they like, I learn to teach them better, but I also learn how to connect with them as people, which fosters motivation.