
About
I offer a wide range of math and statistics topics. I hold a BS in Mathematics, a MS in the computer science, and a PhD in biostatistics from Harvard University. I have tutored many students having a diversity of backgrounds and needs. I live in Cambridge close to Harvard College, and could arrange student participation in some relevant events and workshops there if desired.
Helping people of all ages to develop mathematical/statistical thinking, problem-solving, and intuition, and that "Ah, ha!" moment from my students. Also see the “What is your typical process for working with a new student?” section later on.
Highlights
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Abagail B.
Andrew B.
Frequently asked questions
What is your typical process for working with a new student?
It's all about meeting the student where he or she is, and bringing them forward step-by-step. Here’s how I do it I frst obtain a general sense of a student as a person. I then learn about the student's learning attitude and background in math. Knowing this, I then make a few checks to gauge what the student knows. For instance, "What is 9 X 17?"; "Solve 2X - 5/3 for X" (or a more difficult equation in X); "What is a prime number?"; “What is a right triangle? Give me an example“; “Are these two triangles similar? Why, or why not?”; “How does one solve two simultaneous equations with two unknowns?”; "Give me a simple example of the general linear model?". I also use my "function box", which is a picture of a "black box" with input and output funnels with a few numbers going in and out after the inputs are processed by the unknown function inside the box. For instance "4, 5, 6" yields "8, 10, 12", (doubling) or "1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6" yields "0, 1, 1, 3, 5, 8, 13" (the first six elements of the Fibonacci sequence; if correct mand if the student is interested, I'd show examples from nature such as sunflower spirals, chambered nautalus, the Parthenon, the Mona Lisa). I then proceed to teach the student how to use symbols (such as X, Y, Z), pictures, and formulas including numerical examples of each. I work from the student's textbook, if any. I assign homework and quick quizzes of 2-3 questions at the beginning of each session.
What education and/or training do you have that relates to your work?
I hold a BS in Mathematics, MS in Computer Science, and a PhD in Statistics. I've taught students at elementary, middle, and high school, undergraduate, graduate, and Phd and MD levels privately and in formal classes. I love teaching students at all levels. See previous descriptions for more.
Do you have a standard pricing system for your lessons? If so, please share the details here.
Rates depend on student background and specific needs. For instance, my rates are usually $50/session for elementary and middle school students, $60/session for high school students, $70/session for undergraduate and graduate students, $80/session for professionals.
How did you get started teaching?
I started tutoring math as an undergraduate to middle school and high school student. I helped students in my undergraduate and graduate classes; one undergraduate student really needed help in symbolic logic and improved her grade in the class; one graduate student needed help in linear algebra, and had the same results.
What types of students have you worked with?
Elementary, middle school, and high school students; undergraduate and graduate students; PhDs and MDs.
Describe a recent event you are fond of.
I once had a high school student who was highly motivated and eager to learn. She asked exellent questions, did her home work, and was a quick study. She told me she learned a lot, and her parents were gratified they received my help.
What advice would you give a student looking to hire a teacher in your area of expertise?
I advise students to tell me their goal(s); have a clear understanding their math background; describe any general or specific issues that are arising; prepare some key questions about me; be enthusiastic!
What questions should students think through before talking to teachers about their needs?
As in the preceding question: What are your goals? What is your math background? Do you have any math "blocks"? What general and specific issues and difficulties are arising? What would you like to know about me?