What is your teaching philosophy?

To explain the topic in simplest terms and to ensure the student understands the steps necessary to arrive at the solution. I don't believe in solving just one problem and having a student parrot back the steps I did to solve that problem. I like to teach the student to think and to solve similar problems, not just the one I demonstrated.

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

I'd introduce myself, find out what he/she is having difficulty with, and then increase their confidence that they will be able to solve problems like that after a couple of meetings.

How can you help a student become an independent learner?

By teaching them methods of problem-solving and not merely doing the problems for them. By listening to them and giving them honest answers to their questions. By giving them the self-confidence so they can at least make an attempt, if not solve similar problems.

How would you help a student stay motivated?

By giving him/her small successes in problem solving. Finding out what they are interested in, and then providing examples that are in their field of interest.

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

I'd start with simple basic problems, letting the student solve them, and then move on step by step until you reach the skill or concept the student was originally having difficulty with.