What is your teaching philosophy?

My teaching philosophy is that EVERY child is capable of learning, and we (adults) should not box a child in or limit a child's learning opportunities because of our own predispositions and/or misconceptions.

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

After introductions and some short icebreakers, I would definitely use one of the many tools and surveys to identify a student's learning style and present level of functioning within the content area. This will help me to tailor the instructional delivery to the needs of the child.

How can you help a student become an independent learner?

Students become more independent in their learning as they become more comfortable and confident with their own abilities as a student and a learner. Therefore, I would constantly encourage students to attempt to answer questions on their own before asking for help, and offer them praise when they do attempt to learn and work independently.