What is your teaching philosophy?

Everyone is interested in math and physics. Anyone can learn these subjects. There just needs to be more time spent gaining mathematical literacy in this country.

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

Introduce myself and make the student as comfortable as possible.

How can you help a student become an independent learner?

I encourage them to solve as many problems as possible!

How would you help a student stay motivated?

I would tell them my story. I didn't become seriously in love or interested in math and physics until I took multivariable calculus.

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

I use physics to relate the concept to something they already intuitively understand.

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

I expose them to new and interesting scenarios to solidify and give meaning to what they've read.

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

Start with an introduction, get to know each other, and learn the goals of the student.

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

The most efficient way to learn any subject is to relate it to something the student already knows. I try to make these connections, whatever the subject I'm teaching.

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

I expose the student to problems that gradually increase in complexity. These problems help the student expand their understanding while not intimidating the student.

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

Practice, practice, practice!!

How do you evaluate a student's needs?

I ask them what his/her goal for the course is. Why do they want to learn the subject?

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

I often seek feedback from students. I want them to feel comfortable telling me what works best for them.

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

I usually have enough examples in mind that I can use my own mind for materials.