Many students may take a class or complete a professional development activity because it relates directly to their intended professional goals. Others may enroll because of personal interests or career advancement. Yet, other students may need to fulfill program requirements. These factors can contribute to the degree to which a student is engaged and interested in the subject matter of a course. Furthermore, students are now faced with a dynamic global environment, along with increased complexities in the area of communication.

When I first meet with a new student, I will introduce myself and learn more information about the student, their coursework, goals and outcomes. I will always tell a student that I like to develop a plan of "tutoring action" that works best for them which can include the review of assigned problems and questions, a discussion of sample problems, questions and examples that I may present, the development of a chapter outline, or even development of an outline for a major research paper and the subsequent review of a draft. These are only several of the approaches that I will take with a student and each of my clients receives a customized tutoring experience.

为了帮助我的学生成为independent learners, I believe that it not only important to coach students through specific homework tasks, etc. during a session, but it is also important to provide examples and discuss the reasoning behind certain concepts as well. Taking the time to assist in the process of understanding material can lead to long term success.

With reading comprehension, I help students by recommending that they take notes over what they may be reading. The notes do not have to be extensive, but rather focus on the main concepts, definitions, etc.. This strategy can be particularly useful when a student is preparing for a quiz or exam. The notes serve as a study guide for reference.

When I begin working with a student, I have found it to be very valuable to obtain more information about the course they are completing or area of study. I will often also obtain more details regarding the course materials they are using, as well. I also will ask a student about their goals, as well as their preferred structure in completing tutoring sessions. For example, certain students may complete homework using a learning management or completion system, while others may need assistance in developing a draft or outline for a research paper. I like to identify specific student needs and believe in taking a customized approach to tutoring.

In order to help a student become excited about a subject in which they are struggling, I will first make sure that they are understanding the material. I have found that there are times when a student may not be engaged because the material is challenging. After the concepts are broken down and more understandable, I also always enjoy making a connection between the subject matter and practical/real world concepts. In doing so, students will find the subject to be more relevant.

In order to ensure that a student understands material, I will first focus on any clues during a session that there are questions. I am able to identify any areas of concern, and then I take steps to provide explanations, examples, samples, and additional practice as needed. At times, I may also even provide "homework" and have a student share what they have worked on in order to verify their comprehension.

Confidence can be developed through practice (especially when it comes to quantitative skills), as well as in-session feedback and encouragement, as I will inform a student that they are performing well and on the right track in understanding material.

I will evaluate a student's needs by completing an informal assessment when first meeting with a student, and then during ongoing sessions. I will ask specific questions related to what they are studying and/or covering in class or a program, areas that are presenting a challenge, and their goals for each session and their overall course. If a student has completed homework and/or an assessment, I can also evaluate their needs based upon a review of their performance as well.

I believe in taking a customized approach when working with each of my students and clients. Each student will have different goals and will learn differently. Therefore, when evaluating their initial and ongoing goals, I will be flexible and like to adapt to the learning style and methods that best work for each student.

I will use a variety of materials during a typical tutoring session. I will utilize the tutoring company's tools including practice tests, the whiteboard, and the chat area for detailed notes and explanations. Generally, I also have access to a wide variety of resources, including textbooks and notes for support. In addition, I will reference additional resources as necessary, such as media tools for even additional support. Finally, students may also bring their own resources such as homework, notes, and PowerPoint presentations, which we will also integrate into a session.

If a student has difficulty learning a skill or concept, I will focus on breaking down the concept in understandable terms. In addition, I like to explain the skill or concept based upon the learning style of the student. For example, certain students may simply prefer explanations, while others like to review visual tools and resources such as graphs. Finally, especially when the concept may be quantitative in nature, I always like to provide examples and practice.