Watching Marina and Olga teach has been a fascinating learning experience, offering valuable insights into their unique tutoring approaches. From Marina, I learned the importance of fostering a supportive and patient environment where students feel comfortable expressing their thoughts, especially when tackling writing or reading comprehension. Her approach was centered on encouraging critical thinking, asking open-ended questions that helped students engage with texts more deeply and develop their own interpretations. She also provided clear, constructive feedback, breaking down complex concepts into manageable chunks to avoid overwhelming the student. In contrast, Olga’s teaching style was more structured and methodical, with a clear focus on building a solid foundation through step-by-step problem-solving. Olga emphasized the importance of helping students visualize abstract ideas and apply them to real-world situations, making them feel more accessible and less intimidating. I observed how Olga would first assess what the student already knew before introducing new material, ensuring the lesson felt relevant and achievable. Repetition and consistent practice were key strategies for Olga, reinforcing concepts and boosting the student’s confidence. I noticed that while Marina’s lessons involved a lot of open-ended discussions to stimulate thought and creativity, Olga’s lessons revolved around methodical practice and incremental learning. Despite the differences in their approaches, both shared a commitment to engaging students and prioritizing understanding over simply covering material. I realized that the ability to adapt teaching methods to the student’s needs—whether through discussion and exploration or structured practice and review—is essential. Watching Marina and Olga teach has given me a deeper appreciation for the versatility and thoughtfulness required to be an effective tutor in different academic fields.
Nabil Harrar
