Joseph Engelman
About
While many schools require students to focus on memorizing information for standardized testing, I prefer to work with my students to achieve a more stable footing on the course subjects so that they can advance themselves personally, educationally, and professionally.
The thing I enjoy the most about helping others learn a particular subject or skill is the reward that they may pay it forward and help the next person struggling with a skill or concept. Education shouldn't be strictly about memorization, even if it's not a subject the student has a particular interest in. Helping students overcome and succeed at subjects that aren't as interesting to them is almost more rewarding than subjects that they have a huge passion for. The effort and time put into everything is worth it and pays off in ways a student may not expect.
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Frequently asked questions
What is your typical process for working with a new student?
Every student is different - each with their own unique goals and best learning methods. When meeting a new student, I take the time to assess where the student is at in their knowledge of a particular subject and chart a map getting them to where they would like to be, as well as ways to exceed those initial expectations.
What education and/or training do you have that relates to your work?
Professionally, I work as a software developer for the federal government supporting military software. I have a degree from the American Military University as well as currently working on a History degree from the University of Arizona - Tucson. Beyond computers, I possess the knowledge and passion for educating students in the fields of history, music, and mathematics.
Do you have a standard pricing system for your lessons? If so, please share the details here.
My pricing system is based on the student's current level of knowledge on the subject and goals of where the student would like their knowledge base to be and when the student would like to be able to achieve greater skill sets.
How did you get started teaching?
Although I am new to professional tutorship - growing up in a large family I have many years of assisting my nieces and nephews with school work and test preparation.
What types of students have you worked with?
I have worked with students who are looking to casually grow their knowledge base, to students who are struggling to understand concepts and information and require a more hands-on approach.
What advice would you give a student looking to hire a teacher in your area of expertise?
The advice I would give a student who is looking for a tutor is that they need to not only focus on who specific skill set they are trying to achieve but also has the personality and teaching style that best suit the student. I feel it is important for a student to know whether they are looking for a short-term crash course in the field of study or a long-term mentorship in enhancing their knowledge and skill set. Not every student is made to walk; not every teacher is made to run.
What questions should students think through before talking to teachers about their needs?
What are your short-term and long-term goals for having a tutor? Are there specific areas to concentrate or do you require a more general, broad view education of the subject? What type of teaching environment works best for you?