Electrotechnology Trainer, recently semi-retired, after many years employed by a reputable Specialist Trades Training establishment. I'm a licensed senior electrical worker, teaching NZCEE.

Find out more about Nick

• When did you develop an interest in your chosen field and in private tutoring?

  After being an electrician for many years, owning my own businesses, and having apprentices working for me, I found that I enjoyed passing on, both my knowledge and skills by interaction and mentoring. After serving 18 successful years in the military, I entered the electrical industry later in life, and due to my rank on leaving, I inherited a passion for training people.

• Tell us more about the subject you teach, the topics you like to discuss with students (and possibly those you like a little less).

  Having taught Electrical Engineering theory and practical, at all 3 levels, and conducted various electrical trade block courses, I find it comfortable to discuss any specific topics in detail. I enjoy holding "open" discussions with my participants, and encourage an open forum, for sharing ideas and knowledge. I find that this also encourages those who are a little less knowledgeable or shy to come out of themselves as an individual.

• Did you have any role models; a teacher that inspired you?

  My second tutor position, which commenced May 2019, gave me the opportunity to meet an experienced tutor, who became a good friend. He inspired me to become a professional, confident, and approachable tutor, open to all types of questions, of both a professional and personal nature. Whilst I looked upon him as my role model, we both agreed that we had very similar traits and ideas about teaching, which influenced me in a very positive way.

• What do you think are the qualities required to be a good tutor?

  Having a very approachable and welcoming manner, whilst displaying an air of openness.
  Displaying patience, empathy, and support for students when required.
  Excellent communication skills, and the ability to clearly explain complex topics and to listen to your students.
  Being adaptable and able to adjust teaching methods, to meet the diverse needs of different students.
  Building a rapport with your students, and treating them with fairness and respect, giving credit where it is due.
  Maintaining a professional manner, and being prepared to answer questions, in a clear, concise and understandable way.

• Provide a valuable anecdote related to your subject or your days at school.

  Example: Prior to morning break from my Electrical Engineering Theory, once the classroom had emptied, a student (Ben), approached my desk and asked to speak to me. He disclosed that, he suffered from mild Dyslexia and was finding it difficult to engage with the presentation material, being projected onto the screen.
  Having completed a Neuro-Diversity Awareness (NDA) course, I suspected this, and discussed with Ben a different method of teaching. I suggested that I could convert the PPT Presentations, into PDF format, so that he could peruse the 'hard copy' material at his own leisure at home, following the lesson. He revealed to me, that this was similar to a technique, which helped him during his school days.
  My proposal assisted Ben throughout the course, and he attained a good pass.

• What were the difficulties or challenges you faced or still facing in your subject?

  Maintaining discipline and a positive learning environment is a significant challenge, for all teachers. I have frequently dealt with disruptive behaviour, lack of student motivation or interest in learning, short attention spans (often linked to digital distractions), and a lack of respect for authority.
  Drawing reference to NDA, Attention - Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder can cause disruption within a classroom. I have been a tutor to many students with ADHD, and I found that the best approach, was to minimise distractions, maintain a structured classroom environment, and encourage questions/answers in the open forum.
  Another trait of ADHD can sometimes cause the student to be a little restless, and move around the desks, in the classroom. I use polite and assertive instructions, to the student, requesting him/her to return to their seat, in order to reduce disruption to the class members.
  Finally, I tend to be there on a more pastoral level, generally having an informal chat from time to time.

• Do you have a particular passion? Is it teaching in general or an element of the subject or something completely different?

  As I have already mentioned, I enjoy training people, aspiring to teaching electrical engineering, in all aspects., and at all levels.
  My overall passion, is to spend time, going the extra mile, and use a method of teaching, which suits a particular student's requirements, so that the student achieves the appropriate grade to attain a good pass.

• What makes you a Superprof (besides answering these interview questions) ?

  In addition to those question which I have answered, I believe that I have a dedication to high standards, am very approachable, care about the student's outcome and success, and an ability to engage and connect with the student and motivate their learning capability.