What’s it like to see things from a Math tutor’s point of view — namely, our point of view! Here’s how one of us view students from a tutor’s perspective! We asked the tutor questions about his students, as well as and the joys and challenges he faced while teaching.
1. Which subjects do you teach?
I am a math tutor for all my classes, but some students have also asked me to coach them in Science too!
2. What are the most common weaknesses of students in terms of academics?
Firstly, some of my students struggle with a short attention span, which reduces their ability to focus. Sometimes, students also quickly scroll through social media during class. I understand social media’s draw. But I try to encourage students to have the discipline to focus in class and know when it is time to concentrate. I also hope that students realise that learning is not for their math tutor, but for themselves as this is important for their future. Although I understand some parents may force their kids to go for tuition, students should realise a fair bit of money is being spent on their classes, and class time is very precious.
3. What are some examples of great students you have?
Some of my students are very proactive towards their studies. They are interested in applying themselves to the subject and correcting their weaknesses, while also developing their strengths. Good time management is another quality many of my high performing students have. We all know current students have CCA and social media all competing for their attention. So they do need to take the initiative to plan their time properly.
Moreover, students should be open and receptive towards new ideas, and they need to be willing to be “taught”. As a math tutor, I can only teach as much as a student is willing to learn. At times, students will think that they are smart enough and refuse to be serious. Only when the exams are close, then they realise the subject matter is very vast and there is a whole bunch of things to learn.
4. What do you wish to see in your students?
Some good habits to practice during tuition classes include asking questions when the student doesn’t know. Also to try offering solutions and ideas proactively when they run into a problem, not just wait for the answer. They need to work with their maths tutor to figure out how to best achieve their best grades for their academia. Lastly, when it comes down to the exams, students should understand that failure does not necessarily mean it’s their fault. Sometimes the paper’s difficulty is just out of their control. A test result is just a grade, and students will need to move on, and focus on the next major examination.
5. What advise would you give students who are struggling?
Firstly, students should ask more if they do not understand – after all, there are no stupid questions, but repeated mistakes should prompt the student to reflect on why they are struggling. Secondly, students should spend time mastering maths concepts instead of covering as many topics as possible. Math requires a good foundation to succeed. Thirdly, students should come to us (their math tutors), to ask for extra materials or guidance. We are here to help you, but we do not know what you do not know.
Also remember, students should actively take notes as they learn to improve their understanding of the concepts. And finally, students plesae take breaks between your studies so you do not overload themselves mentally. And take care of your health too! Know that compromising on sleep for the sake of studying will not help you in the long run – often, the best students do not study late the night before the exams. They take time to relax and sleep early. It’s not easy, but it works!
