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

During the first session with a student, I would spend some time learning about what topics they are currently working as well as the areas in which they feel we need to target. I would also examine their preferred learning style (listening, visual, or motion based) to gain some insight on the best way to structure the tutoring session in a way that is engaging and productive.

What is your teaching philosophy?

"If a child can't learn the way we teach, maybe we should teach the way they learn."?

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

I build my student's confidence in a subject by creating a habit of small successes. Once a student is on a trend of feeling better, happier, and has had successful experiences in a subject, it is not too long before their doubts disappear.

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

Gauging what works best with a student is often best discovered by simply asking them. I ask students what they enjoy doing outside of academics and find a way to relate the things they love to the work the work we have to do together.

How can you help a student become an independent learner?

I'm big on stories. I often find that students become frustrated because they cannot relate to the material or understand ways that it is relevant to their everyday lives. Telling stories to get them thinking and curious with stories that incorporate the concepts has been a great way to assist them into growing into independent learners.

How would you help a student stay motivated?

I help students to stay motivated by ensuring to teach them at the level in which they are, and help them to advance. Laughter always helps too!