What is your teaching philosophy?

My teaching philosophy can be summed up in one word - involvement. Knowledge is a tool, but students must know how to use it. Application is a vital element of learning.

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

I want to accomplish 3 things: 1) help the student feel at ease, 2) outline the curriculum, and 3) start learning.

How can you help a student become an independent learner?

Students have to be taught how to learn on their own. This can be done by explaining the steps involved and giving them homework that will not only help them progress, but will also keep them interested in learning.

How would you help a student stay motivated?

I would help them stay motivated by incorporating something they enjoy in their homework. I also like to point out to them how much progress they've made by helping them compare what they know with what they know a few weeks or a few months ago.

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

I would most likely need to find another way of teaching that concept based on the student's own learning strengths. For example, some people are more visual learners.

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

Reasoning with them on the reading text to help them understand the circumstances seems most effective. So, I ask leading questions to help them come to the correct conclusions.

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

By asking questions and getting the student to talk, I get some idea of where their difficulties lie. I might also ask to see previously completed assignments.

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

An effective way to get people involved is to relate what you're teaching to something they are interested in. Another way is to explain to them how they will benefit by knowing this information.

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

Questions. Discussion. Of course, quizzes are also an option, but nobody likes quizzes.

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

I remember when I started learning Chinese, I was told not to think of what I didn't know, but about what I know now that I didn't know a few weeks or months ago.

How do you evaluate a student's needs?

I can pretty easily pick up on what they're saying. Also, by looking at their homework, I can tell what they still need help with.

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

I look closely at the areas they are having difficulty with and focus in on those areas. I also ask them about any current needs they might have related to work or school.

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

Either the books they use at school or information I've pulled off the Internet. I also carry a small whiteboard for writing or drawing illustrations.