Amy
Certified Tutor
Undergraduate Degree: California State University-Fresno - Bachelors, Social Work
Graduate Degree: California State University-Fresno - Masters, Social Work
Playing Piano, reading, Doing puzzles, playing with my dog.
How would you help a student stay motivated?
I continuously focus on a student's strength and encourage them from that view. When someone feels they are learning and holding on to that knowledge, their motivation is heightened, rather than feeling as if they are failing because they are not acknowledged about what they are great at.
If a student has difficulty learning a skill or concept, what would you do?
If a student is struggling to learn a concept, then we will spend some time focusing our energy in that area. However, if there is a deadline for the paper, I would encourage the student to complete it to the best of their understanding, and then we would continue to practice the skill on other works.
How do you help students who are struggling with reading comprehension?
I would work with the student to discover meaning. We would read passages together and each write down our understanding of what was said. Then we can discuss our findings and try to list out the strongest ideas.
What strategies have you found to be most successful when you start to work with a student?
Explaining my philosophy of working together with a student and utilizing their strengths puts students at ease. It can take pressure off of the student, who may feel they have yet another authority to listen to. It shows that one person can never know it all, and we share the learning alongside my guidance.
How would you help a student get excited/engaged with a subject that they are struggling in?
I would ask the student to explain to me in writing why they are disengaged from the subject. We could then each go over stereotypes that go along with the subject, or pros/cons. I would have the student make up reasons why someone may find the subject interesting, even though they don't. We could also discuss the history of the subject, whatever it may be. Finally, I would attempt to find a connection to things enjoyable by the student and whatever is included in the subject.
What techniques would you use to be sure that a student understands the material?
I would work with the student, having both of us spend a minute writing down the understanding we have already and possibly brainstorm further material with similarities. I would continuously ask the student about the material also. If it is a grammar rule, for instance, I would ask during every session for the student to tell me what the rule is. I would suggest they keep a running journal of terms, etc., so they will always have a quick reference.
How do you build a student's confidence in a subject?
I would encourage the student to write down everything they can think of related to the subject. Then we can talk about how much they do already know. If there are no necessary pieces of information missing, then I would help the client expand their list. Their confidence will come from seeing how much they have already accomplished.
How do you evaluate a student's needs?
First I would listen to what the student is asking of me. They will ask for what they think they need. We will read together what they are working on or anything in general, and I would try to notice patterns in the students reading/writing.
How do you adapt your tutoring to the student's needs?
My goal as a tutor is to fulfill the needs of students. My philosophy and tools can work in any type of writing, including grammar.
What types of materials do you typically use during a tutoring session?
I have a book created by the Writing Center I worked for in college that provides many skills and how to work on them. I also have writing prompts and examples.
What is your teaching philosophy?
My tutoring philosophy is to work with the student rather than act as an authoritative figure that supplies answers. I strive to make the atmosphere one of teamwork and a space where we both can learn together. In this way, a student can learn that writing is always evolving and no one ever knows it all.
What might you do in a typical first session with a student?
In my first session, I would first ask the student what they feel their needs are-- why the hired me to begin with. I would explain to them my working philosophy and we can look at the first piece of work the student has to review.
How can you help a student become an independent learner?
One of my goals as a tutor is to create independent learning in others. I would help my students discover their strengths and areas that need development. The tools and materials I use are also set up to work for any type of writing piece, so the student who learns them will always be able to apply them.