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

To ensure that a student understands the material, I typically ask them to explain it to me. If they can explain a concept to me coherently, they are usually proficient in the material. I will sometimes quiz my students, but the methods used vary based on age and maturity.

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

I "sandwich" the difficulty of the lesson. I will start with a review problem, then the material will get progressively more difficult, and finally we will end on a review of one of the simpler problems. I also use only positive reinforcement. I tell students that they are doing really well. I try to never be too negative. If they are really struggling with a problem, that's my cue as a teacher to give them something easier.

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

For online tutoring, I use the interactive board. I like to prepare problems for my student to work on as well as fun activities. For example, I might have a kindergartener, who is learning to add, move virtual counters. For in person tutoring, I always bring elaborate games! My university has an incredible curriculum center filled with the most up-to-date learning materials. I love the board games we have for reading, the card games for math, and the fun activities for science!

What is your teaching philosophy?

My philosophy is simple. As a teacher, it is my job to help every child in my care. It is my job to adapt my lessons and myself to be able to work with that child. It is my job to help my children develop the skills they need to meet their personal goals -- what is best for them. No child is the same. I believe more in improvement than general standards.

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

During our first session, I will get to know the student. I will begin with an introduction to make them feel comfortable in the session. I will then give them a few practice problems to find their level of knowledge. Next, we will review the problems, and finally come up with a comprehensive plan to reach their goals. Students are more than welcome to come to our sessions with prepared questions! Please feel free to send them to me beforehand.