Robert Johnson Tutoring
About
Every student is different, and the way in which each student can best access his or her ability to excel in a subject in unique. I specialize in working with students to find that way.
I have extensive experience with students with learning issues as well as those with a full AP/Honors load. Unlike most tutors, I have years of extensive experience working with students in a wide range of academic subjects: English, advanced math, history, biology and even chemistry. This versatility means I can be a student's resource for multiple classes over his or her academic career.
Additionally, I have prepared many hundreds of pupils in the ACT, SAT, SAT II, AP, ISEE, GRE and GMAT exams. I've authored test materials, written SAT math questions for one of the biggest test-prep companies globally, designed class curricula for multiple LA private schools, consulted for the LAUSD and trained both classroom teachers and tutors in these tests.
I'm a person, not a company, so you get more expertise for your dollar (most agencies keep 40-80% of the fee you pay them). I strive to cultivate a personal and attentive relationship with my clients, free of the hassles of a middle party. I do all work myself, so you won't be stuck with an inexperienced or inconsistent junior-level instructor.
Tutoring, teaching, consulting and authoring academic materials is my full-time job -- I'm not an adjunct professor squeezing you in, or an aspiring actor trying to make it until my big break. I have almost twenty years of experience in most subjects, and I began tutoring math when I was in junior high, believe it or not. I've had over a thousand students during my career, including classes. That's why I know I can find the best way for any student to understand a subject or prepare for an exam.
Please visit my website at www.robertjohnsontutoring.com to learn more. You can also email me at [email protected], or call/text me at (310) 701-0469. Thank you.
Highlights
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Frequently asked questions
What is your typical process for working with a new student?
First is a phone call with the student's parent, or if it's GRE/GMAT/college-level, with the student. I think it's vital to put in the time with a client and answer his or her questions honestly and in detail.
Second, in meeting the student, I think it's important to establish rapport: find common ground, relate to each other, laugh. If the student dreads tutoring, it simply isn't going to work.
Third, I maintain a file for each student and I take notes on his or her classes, with attention to challenging subjects. I also help the student to assess himself or herself in terms of executive functioning skills.
From there, we set up a schedule to work regularly. Sometimes that is entirely academic work, but for those students who need it, we may work on skills such as time management, using a calendar and organization of materials.
Ulitmately, my goal is for the student to become self-sufficient and acquire the skills for academic success through our work.
What education and/or training do you have that relates to your work?
I graudated summa cum laude, was a National Merit Finalist, trained in the Supplmental Instruction Program from the University of Missouri, have taken multiple educational amd professional development workshops, and worked with over a thousand students in a wide variety of subjects. I've managed a tutoring center and worked at a school for learning disabled students. I've taught classes ranging from the SAT to college-level psychology in groups as small as three and as large as 200.
Do you have a standard pricing system for your lessons? If so, please share the details here.
Prices vary based on the subject material and the season (I give discounted rates during the summer). It's best to call me so I can give you a personalized quote. I also have a referral program through which clients can acquire additional discounts.
How did you get started teaching?
I began tutoring my peers in math in the seventh grade as a summer job. I tutored during high school, college and ever since.
What types of students have you worked with?
What type have I not worked with would be a more apt question. I've worked with students with ADD, ADHD, OCD, and Aspberger's. I've worked with many students fighting or recovering from cancer, which presents a unique set of challenges. I've worked with students who graduated at the top of their classes. I've taughted middle-schoolers, high-schoolers, college students and adults. I've worked extensively international students, both here and via Skype. I've taught TOEFL classes to classes of people from all over the world. I've served as an academic adcisor to students applying to college and assisted them with their essay and the application process. I've coached students on how to interview at schools and for jobs. I've even taught guitar and how to make sushi.
Describe a recent event you are fond of.
I'm in favor of any movement that makes educational more accessible and affordable to more people. I am interested in ways of teaching students that are less conventional and that excite them. LA is a great centerof progressive education and it's fascinating to see that play out in the various schools here.
I supposed an "event I am fond of" might be the confirmation of gravitional waves, which garnered the scientists involved Nobel prizes this year. It's a true milestone in our understanding of the Universe.
What advice would you give a student looking to hire a teacher in your area of expertise?
I would suggest that a student look for extensive experience and relatability. I would also say hire an individual, not someone from an agency. There's high turnaround at agencies, and you are very likely to pay top dollar for someone who was just trained a few months ago.
I myself have experience in trying to hire tutors to cover my workload, but ultimately I realized how hard it is to find someone who has the magical triad of a great personality, deep knowldegable about a subject, and the ability to teach well. That's when I made the decision that I had to do all the work myself. Even if you train someone, that is no replacement for years of teaching experience.
What questions should students think through before talking to teachers about their needs?
What is your background?
What is your experience in the specific subject?
How do you work with a student? (A good open-ended question that should tell you a great deal)
If a teacher or tutor in unwilling to engage in an extended discussion of your concerns over the phone, I would not hire him or her.