I have been told that I am a "tough" tutor, imposing strict attendance and participation standards, but one of the best our center has by my boss and our lab managers. I impose strict standards because I believe that regular attendance, proper preparation for sessions, and full participation leads to better grades and a deeper understanding of subject material. This is especially important in math and foreign languages where regular practice is essential to understanding the concepts and mastering the subject.
My tutoring method entails precisely identifying the underlying issue in the fundamentals of a student's learning and working with them to correct it while simultaneously assisting them with their current course work. This prevents students from falling behind in their current course work while still setting them up for success in future work. I also work with students on improving their study skills and time management skills (something I, myself, had to work on in school) so that they will experience success in all aspects of their academic careers.
I take a very laid-back approach to sessions. While my standards may be strict, I like to create a fun, positive learning environment. I often let the student direct the session to their specific needs while still maintaining control of the session as a whole. If I feel a student needs more work in a particular area, I will work with them until they are comfortable with the concept.
A Comprehensive Approach
Frequently my students see me on campus the following semester or later and stop to tell me how well they did in their class, with many able to pull their grades up to beyond even their original expectations. I love hearing how well they did. Nothing makes me feel better than hearing, from one of my students, how they were able to ace their class and how our tutoring sessions have helped them with their new classes.
That is my goal - to prepare students for the future while still "throwing them a life raft" (as my students say) for today.