My tutoring approach is first to determine the student's purpose, goals, and objectives and then determine where the student is having difficulty in performing. Next, I design, with the student, a tutoring program to achieve those desired results. Once the student succeeds in those accomplishments, he/she can decide whether to set more advanced goals. We can then implement a new program toward those ends; and so forth, until my tutoring is no longer needed.
Students (regardless of age) have different intelligences and learn in different ways (e.g., audio vs. visual). I try to determine what techniques are most effective with the student and use those techniques predominantly. In all cases, however, I apply the Socratic method (drawing answers from the student by asking questions) and a "learn by doing" element in my tutoring. When appropriate, I demonstrate the results which the student is seeking to perform. My knowledge and experience can guide the student to success in minimal time. I consistently have a positive, can-do attitude, and like to mix humor into our studies.
I have a B.A. degree in English Literature, with minor in music, from the University of Washington, and an M.B.A. degree (marketing) from Seattle University. After service in the U.S. Navy, I studied science writing at U.W. for two years in a post-graduate, non-degree program.
While an undergraduate student at U.W., I was a scholarship student in the Husky Band; marched at football games, the Tournament of Roses Parade, and the Rose Bowl game; played at basketball games; and played in a brass ensemble. Also, I played in orchestras for musicals and opera. In high school, I was a member of the State Band. I tutor various types of music, specializing in trumpet and cornet.
In non-fiction writing, my professional career began as a freelance science writer, publishing articles in my specialty, oceanography. That led to my becoming editor of an oceanographic newsletter, followed later as editor of a maritime trade journal. In both these positions, I wrote the majority of the feature articles and contributed many of my own photographs.
I was raised in a conservative Christian church, attended a church-affiliated college for two years, taking Bible courses in the Old and New Testaments and in comparative religions. For many years, I lived as an agnostic. Later in life I returned to Christianity. I have been a member of The Episcopal Church for the past 17 years. I value the tolerance of ambiguity within this church, while practicing its beautiful and ancient liturgies. I have made Cursillo and am a member of an active men's Bible study/prayer group. My chief ministry has been building endowment funds through planned giving. Occasionally, as a lay person, I preach a sermon. My tutoring is to explore the lessons and meanings within the Bible, both mystical and practical. I do not evangelize particular dogma, doctrines or church membership. I believe we all "see through a glass darkly." My faith is rooted in personal life experience, not "approved" interpretations by a group. As such, my faith is a vital part of my being, my identify--who I am.
back to top