What is your teaching philosophy?

My teaching philosophy is to mold to the student's style of learning. Everyone can achieve greatness; you just have to find what works best for you. Even if you don't know what works, we'll find it. Believe in yourself.

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

I would ask them what they want to get out of the tutoring. Where do they feel they need the most help? What are their strengths? Then, I would devise a long-term plan so we can stay organized and keep pace.

How can you help a student become an independent learner?

You give them the tools for success, and not just tell them what to do. For example, critical thinking, curiosity, and excitement. Lastly, motivate the students by showing passion and excitement in the subject.

How would you help a student stay motivated?

Keeping students motivated is my top priority. Motivation is the foundation to learning. I would keep them motivated by switching the teaching styles. Also, I would make sure to show my excitement and passion for the subject, because students feed off their tutor/teacher's energy.

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

Find out their learning style and what kind of energy they want in a tutor. Some students prefer illustrations; others prefer lecture style. Also, some students want a lot of energy in the tutor, and others might find it overwhelming.

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

Try to explain the "why" factor. Why does this happen? Also, try to relate it to a topic they find interesting or a hobby of theirs.

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

I would help break down the sentence structure and figure out where they are lacking. I would also have them start slow and paraphrase in their own words what they are comprehending from it.

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

I would have them either repeat the material immediately or later, and I would also do a practice problem/scenario for them to see if they understand the concept.

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

You start out on the basic material and work your way up to the more difficult subject. You also make sure you compliment them on their effort, critical thinking, and confidence.

How do you evaluate a student's needs?

You evaluate the student's needs based off of their own assessment of themselves, but also understanding what their needs are based off of your own assessment after a session.

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

You make use of the tools on the platform and make sure that they get all that they need through communication--either email, phone, or texting.

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

I usually use a reference textbook, calculator (when needed), and the whiteboard for writing down problems.