What is your teaching philosophy?

My teaching philosophy centers on students doing as opposed to just listening. I utilize various different methods of presentation so that students can get a basic understanding of concepts, and then through actual practice and experience, offer them the teaching to master the concept.

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

In a typical first session with a student, I am most likely to gauge their level of comfort and understanding with the topic being covered through asking broad-based, conceptual questions. Additionally, I will ask personalized questions about what types of classes/subject matters they find most interesting and engaging. Additionally, it is extremely important in the first tutoring session to get an understanding of how the student learns best and with what types of support they are most comfortable with in order to build a lasting, successful relationship.

How can you help a student become an independent learner?

Through having a student actually do the work themselves with guidance and correction from me as a tutor, students become independent. When they no longer need the guidance and correction, they have mastered the concept and are independent.

How would you help a student stay motivated?

Motivation often comes down to the product that is coming out of the effort being exerted. To keep students motivated, you need to show them that they are making positive gains. You also need to keep the materials and methods fresh so that nothing becomes boring or overly repetitive.

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

Continue to teach that skill or concept using different manipulatives and methods until the student achieves a level of mastery that is acceptable.

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

The most successful strategy that I have found when I start working with a student is to listen to them. They will be honest if they feel that you are listening to them and truly dealing with what they need instead of just following your own agenda.