Jim
Certified Tutor
I have been teaching AP Microeconomics for seven years. I like to use real life examples so that students can understand concepts.
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Undergraduate Degree: University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign - Bachelors, Liberal Arts
Graduate Degree: Lindenwood University - Masters, Curriculum and Instruction
Sports, Politics, Running
- AP Microeconomics
- Business
- College Business
- High School Business
- Microeconomics
What is your teaching philosophy?
I believe that the study of Microeconomics fosters critical thinking. I try to use a student’s real life experience to building understanding of these concepts. A solid foundation in Economics is a necessity in the modern world.
What might you do in a typical first session with a student?
I ask students about their goals in the class they are taking. I ask simple questions to check the level of understanding. This allows me to help students with their weaknesses and not to waste their time.
How can you help a student become an independent learner?
I show students how to attack a problem and how to use their experience to understand concepts.
How would you help a student stay motivated?
Preparation leads to success and that builds a cycle of wanting to prepare again and being successful again.
If a student has difficulty learning a skill or concept, what would you do?
I try to use examples that students can relate to. After that I ask the student to explain it to me.
How do you help students who are struggling with reading comprehension?
Reading in Economics can be dry. I encourage students to focus on the vocabulary and the comprehension follows.
What strategies have you found to be most successful when you start to work with a student?
I try to establish trust. Students need to be confident that I have mastered the material and can explain it well.
What techniques would you use to be sure that a student understands the material?
I have practice tests that allow students to demonstrate their understanding and use those tests to diagnose problem areas.
How do you build a student's confidence in a subject?
I encourage students to apply the concepts that we have covered. In doing so, the student becomes confident in their abilities.
How do you evaluate a student's needs?
Three ways. 1. I ask questions and evaluate their answers. 2. I encourage students to ask questions over material they do not understand. 3. I use practice test as a tool.
How do you adapt your tutoring to the student's needs?
I tailor my approach based on the student’s goals. I focus on those goals. In addition, by using diagnostic tests, I can make sure that I cover the concepts where the students are struggling.
What types of materials do you typically use during a tutoring session?
I use work sheets and practice tests.
How would you help a student get excited/engaged with a subject that they are struggling in?
Nothing succeeds like success. When students are successful, it is a powerful motivator.