What is your teaching philosophy?

I believe that students learn best when they are happy and motivated. I also think students should not only learn information, but learn how to learn. My job as a teacher is not only to pass on information, but to pass on the ability to learn effectively when the student is on their own.

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

Get to know the student, and make a preliminary study plan to best meet the student's needs.

How can you help a student become an independent learner?

It depends on the subject, but when it comes to learning a second language, extensive reading is the best, research-supported method. Ask me more if you're curious!

How would you help a student stay motivated?

I like to have students write down long-, mid- and short-term goals, and then revisit the list from time to time to let them see what they've accomplished and where they need to go.

If a student has difficulty learning a skill or concept, what would you do?

Slow down, try to approach it from a different angle, and practice, practice, practice. I would look online to find examples presented in a different format or from a different point of view. Sometimes the right image or video can be very illuminating.