What is your teaching philosophy?

I understand there are many beliefs and strategies to teaching students. My philosophy of teaching starts with collaboration and interaction with each student. Student centered learning bridges the gap from teacher lecturing to students taking more ownership in their learning process. As an educator, it is my responsibility to make sure my students are exposed to the best research-based strategies and materials.

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

I would try to build a rapport with my client. I would have an assessment ready to identify their strengths and build upon their weaknesses. I would attempt to build up their confidence so they would feel empowered to learn.

How can you help a student become an independent learner?

I would use the I do, we do, you do, approach to learning. I think the gradual release strategy helps students to gain the confidence to work on their own.

How would you help a student stay motivated?

I think giving students constant meaningful feedback is essential to keeping students motivated and engaged.

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

I would pinpoint the problem and reteach the concept using a different strategy.

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

I would set up an individual reading plan for the student to use during tutoring sessions, as well as with their parents.

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

The gradual release strategy (I do, we do, you do) has proven to be very effective. I also think that, when students make a personal connection to concepts taught, it helps students to retain the information.

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

I would let them know they are not the only one who has struggles. I would keep encouraging them to not give up.

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

I would ask questions and give informal and formal assessments. At the end of each session, they would be required to do a short wrap- up assessment.

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

I would celebrate their strengths to boost their confidence to work and improve their weaknesses.

How do you evaluate a student's needs?

I would give a short diagnostic test to pinpoint their needs.

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

I would give the student a learning survey. I would also observe how the student learns. Then, I would use the best research-based learning strategies to accommodate their needs.

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

I use research-based materials. I use materials that build up to the intended learning goals.