What is your teaching philosophy?

Like a fork, teaching has many prongs, or tines; it is dynamic in function. I believe that learning any subject requires a multidisciplinary approach in order for what is fundamental of the topic to stick. Accordingly, my philosophy relies on engagement; balancing fun and minimal stress with methodical preparation and study.

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

Introductions and icebreakers are fun and a good way to get some background information about the student, subject, obstacles and goals. It is important to begin a first session by creating a positive, identifying ground for which a student can establish trust and familiarity with the teacher. Afterwards, creating realistic goals with the student will serve as good waypoints to keep us both on the road to progress.

How can you help a student become an independent learner?

From my academic experience, I have found that to become a successful independent learner, a cultivated interest in the subject is required. However, loving the subject isn't necessarily required. It is important to help a student see beyond what is immediately before them. For instance, how can learning this topic help you in your future? What pearls of knowledge or accreditation can be carried away from this subject? Stoking inspiration can be tricky, but a motivation is a requirement for becoming a truly successful independent learner.

How would you help a student stay motivated?

Make it fun! Stay positive!

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

I would refer to The Seven Learning Styles, such as spatial, auditory, linguistic, and kinesthetic, and adapt the lesson according to the preferred learning style suited for the student.

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

To improve reading comprehension, I like to break down the paragraph into simplified sentences and then group thematic elements. This helps to restructure the required reading into digestible bites.

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

Success begins with a great interconnected relationship between the tutor, the student and the subject. I am courteous, diplomatic and considerate. I empathize with the student, because I know what a tedious struggle it can be to grasp certain subjects. Success is cultivated by patience, understanding and a methodical approach.

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

Concerning English; Literature, Composition and other Writing matters, I find reciting problematic paragraphs aloud helps to identify weakness in comprehension or writing structure. Equally, little quizzes that summarize the material at hand helps a struggling student renew focus.

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

Positive instruction that focuses on a student's natural strengths is important to keep good morale. Also, a steady mapping of progress and highlights help to remind the student that they are achieving and succeeding.

How do you evaluate a student's needs?

I'll draft a tailored question and answer on behalf of the student to evaluate his or her individual needs. I will continuously update and monitor this profile to ensure that the student is satisfied and happy with the instruction given.

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

There is a milieu of fun learning activities that serve as a break from the ordinary and traditional. I believe that it is important to utilize local libraries, the spaces they have available and also leverage subject-based communities on the Internet for perspective, information and course immersion.