Experience Summary
I worked with the Minnesota Literacy Council tutoring adult learners in basic math and reading skills. I attempted multiple approaches with each person until we found one that allowed the learner to make sense of the symbols and language. I encouraged the ability to work at the material until the learner could make it his/her own in some way. I also trained new employees each month in the use of a software program at a pharmaceutical company. Employees were required to learn the program regardless of experience and ability with computer programs. I was challenged to engage disinterested employees, encourage frustrated employees, and meet the demands of highly inquisitive employees while maintaining focus on the required information.
Teaching Style
I will ask a student some questions to find out what they know about the subject. I listen carefully for clues to potential obstacles the student is facing. How the student feels about the subject is affected by perception of difficulty and personal ability, and by perception of importance. I want the student to gain a sense of accomplishment as early as possible in order to establish self-motivation. I work to establish in the student a base of knowledge or experience, and I teach the student how to use that as a springboard for learning further material and solving puzzles or resolving questions. Keeping the student aware of the larger context for the material is a constant habit as well.