What is your teaching philosophy?

I believe that every student possesses their own style of learning. A personal connection with the instructor can provide a unique opportunity for a student's individuality to shape their learning experience.

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

A student would be given time to talk about their interests, to explain struggles with a given subject, and to create their goals for academic tutoring.

How can you help a student become an independent learner?

My experiences have taught me how to learn. I have an understanding of study skills that would be helpful to almost any student willing to work hard.

How would you help a student stay motivated?

I like setting up a road map. When setting up a goal, it's helpful to create small steps of measurable success to keep moving forward in a positive direction.

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

Difficulties are natural and expected. Given time and mutual discussion, I am confident that together we can succeed.

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

There are some mental cues and reading strategies that help me focus as I read. I would share these ideas and practice them with any student who wishes to grow in their reading comprehension.

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

The most important first step is figuring out why it is we are beginning this project. Hard work is difficult to commit to without a worthwhile cause. Let's find that motivation and go after success.

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

Almost every subject can be connected to the personal interests of a student. Engaging in the subject while personalizing the learning experience is important to stay excited.

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

Discussion questions (where a student isn't just answering a test question, but also explaining the reasoning behind it) are an effective way to measure true understanding.

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

Creating opportunities for a student to succeed is important to establish a base of knowledge, while also building positive momentum. Momentum keeps us moving forward onto more challenging and difficult concepts.

How do you evaluate a student's needs?

Assessment tools are a good starting point, as are using tests and writing assignments to gain some idea of where a student is. Conversation with the student is also important to get the full picture.

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

I commit to flexibility, as no two students are the same. Once a personal struggle is identified, that becomes a priority of focus. Shaping content to consider a student's interests will help keep motivation high.

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

I like to use content and information from the real-world, and even pop culture. It's easier for us to engage when we can relate to the material.