Experience Summary
After graduating from the University of Wisconsin - Eau Claire with a degree in computer science, I started tutoring in the Academic Skills Center at UWEC and discovered this was a hidden talent. My instinctive use of the Socratic method earned praise from the director right away. While working at UWEC, I gained experience with a variety of learning and developmental disabilities, including Asperger's syndrome, visual impairment, brain damage, and dyscalculia. At the university, a technical college, and privately, I have tutored elementary through college students in math, chemistry, reading, grammar, computer science, computer literacy, and test preparation. I can provide a letter of recommendation from my former supervisor at UWEC.
Teaching Style
My tutoring style focuses on understanding concepts, not simply getting the right answers. This emphasis improves retention and helps students apply their knowledge to new problems. I teach a variety of memorization techniques, but if the student understands a process or formula, memorization is often unnecessary. Whenever possible, I use hands-on exercises, manipulatives, and exploration to help students visualize abstract concepts and discover principles for themselves. Rather than giving answers easily, I ask questions to lead the student in solving problems. I am patient and have a talent for explaining technical information to non-technical people. Learning can be hard work at times, but it should be satisfying.