about us: our approach

 Instructing lessons is not enough; teachers must create academic curiosity in students, so they will continue their life-long learning process

Active Learning Molds Students into Learners

Amazing Tutors fosters active learning and encourages students to set their own goals and take responsibility for their learning.  Research shows that, given the right atmosphere, students will be eager to explore and obtain knowledge.  Our tutoring centres jointly provide an environment conducive to learning, which enables students to embrace their role as learners.
Our tutoring services ensures active learning by:

• Fostering a student-centred approach to learning
• Using lessons hands-on lessons
• Building classroom community by encouraging discussion and peer-exchange learning
• Helping students set and achieve learning goals 

We adhere to the highest standards of educational conduct 

Our Amazing Tutors' Code of Ethics

Standards:
At Amazing Tutors Inc., we believe all children should have the ability to develop and succeed to their fullest potential.  As part of this goal, our staff members adhere to the highest standards of professional and educational conduct in administering our superior tutoring programs and tutoring services. 

Confidentiality:
Amazing Tutors holds all information pertaining to our students in strict confidence.  Essentially, this means that every detail regarding your child's work, behaviour, successes and difficulties is kept between you, your child and our Amazing Tutors' staff.  The same naturally applies to the child's identity, gender, nationality/religion, school, residence and contact information.  The security of children and families is an exceedingly high priority for us, and so we regard our clients' information conscientiously.

​​Professionalism:
Amazing Tutors maintains all our relationships with staff and clientele at a professional level.  We encourage cooperative effort with you, your child, your child's teachers and Amazing Tutors' staff.  Because we believe in giving every student the best education possible, our students' well-being governs our tutoring activities each and every day.

Honesty:
We understand what our Amazing Tutor programs, tutoring services and extensive academic and professional resources are capable of achieving.  Amazing Tutors will not make promises beyond our capabilities.  Similarly, we try not to accept any student who we believe is unlikely to benefit from our services.  Should we believe other professional services are required for a given student, we will recommend these options for your consideration.  In addition, we commit to diligently meeting all of our obligations to our students.  While we do not guarantee quick and simple solutions to their academic challenges, we will continually work towards a path of improvement that directly addresses the requirements of all of their courses of study.  Fees are agreed upon in advance and are charged in accordance with established industry rates.  Tutoring plans are prepaid at the start of the month for the entire month.  Amazing Tutors will not refund any pro-rated plan amounts prior to the cancellation date.  We do not offer refunds on full or unused portions of our tutoring services.  Any customers who are abusive to our staff, by Amazing Tutors' sole determination, may be terminated without refund at our sole discretion.  We strive to accomplish the greatest possible improvement in the shortest time, with our program duration usually being four months.  

​Professional Excellence:
At Amazing Tutors, we strive for professional excellence. We believe in giving every student the best education possible.  That is why we provide superior tutoring programs and tutoring services at an affordable price.  We want our students to have the learning support, professional instruction and resources necessary to achieve their overall goals.  We have developed an academic collaborative model to support students, comprised of programming and services to support the diverse learning needs of students.  Additionally, we continue to work with available technology to provide greater access to online resources and tutoring for students needing private tutoring and face to face learning assistance in small group tutoring or one to one tutoring.  Our educational consultants, possessing the requisite analytic creativity and critical thinking skills, play an important role in developing individualized learning plans and curriculum, providing learning assessments, and designing and delivering a variety of programs and workshops.  They consult with B.C. Certified Teachers, college and university professors regarding student development and learning strategies to improve learning outcomes. This collaboration helps to embed the strategies and knowledge that further enhance learning and understanding into our programs.  We ensure that students are developing the essential skills, knowledge and abilities they need to achieve their goals no matter what they might be as they attempt to develop their career through education.  

Learning is not attained by chance; it must be sought for and attended to diligently and enthusiastically

Our Approach: Encouraging Practice

Practicing for Mastery 

Amazing Tutors understands that continual practice is essential for mastering any subject.  Research shows that there's a direct correlation between the amount of time students are exposed to information and their level of knowledge acquisition.  Our tutoring programs, (for Elementary and High School levels, and in Math, Science and English subject areas) provide students with ample exposure to reading and writing development, and to practice with Math configurations and Science applications, all for the purpose of maximizing students' levels of knowledge retention.

Our tutoring centre helps learners maximize their level of subject mastery by:

• Devoting an hour to learning the chosen subject
• Supplying students with practice exercises that reinforce their learning
• Focusing on strengthening students' learning while showing them how to break down the information into manageable portions
• Providing students with access to a library room
• Providing students with access to the internet
• Helping students regulate their own study habits
• Communicating openly with parents/guardians to ensure consistent learning at home 

 Develop a passion for learning; if you do, you will never cease to grow

Ensuring Continued Learning by Cultivating Motivation 

Amazing Tutors recognizes that the best guarantee for continued learning is inherent motivation. Research shows that motivated learners are determined to achieve their goals, and will put forth the effort necessary for attainment. Our tutoring centres work to establish students' internal motivation for learning by employing positive reinforcement, providing students with the necessary confidence to approach their schoolwork with drive.
Our tutoring help cultivates motivation for learning by:

• Recognizing students' accomplishments
• Demonstrating belief in our students' potential
• Helping learners set realistic goals
• Providing constructive feedback that promotes learning   

 From listening comes wisdom, and from speaking, community 

Learning in a Community to Maximize Knowledge  

Amazing Tutors has created a learning community that offers tutoring services to groups of students, in addition to one-to-one classes, thus furnishing students with the best opportunity to maximize their knowledge. Research shows that students learn more by becoming part of a community. In the classroom, students work harder when they are held accountable by their peers as well as by the teacher. In our group tutoring program, learners have the opportunity to showcase their work, and their work ethic, to their peers; they share knowledge and are led to view one another as valuable resources.  Moreover, our tutors teach students to practice quality communication, with the awareness that one's input reveals a multitude about his/her character, depth, clarity of thought, spiritual and/or emotional maturity, and personal values.  We feel that our students' communication should be of an elevated, intellectual nature, to respect, and should be positive, encouraging and supportive.  
Our tutoring center fosters community learning by:

• Providing group-centered tutoring services to an average of four students in a class
• Allowing students to share knowledge and learn from each other when appropriate 
• Facilitating shared resources (computer, books, school supplies) 
• Embodying positive community standards (cooperation, active listening, constructive verbal contribution) in all sessions​​  

An investment in knowledge always yields the highest return

Recognizing Individual Intelligence to Support Learning

 
Amazing Tutors understands that students' learning is related to their specific intelligence areas. Research demonstrates that there are many modes of learning besides those relating to logical and linguistic skills.  Our tutoring company understands that the needs of all learners are different. When offering tutoring help, our tutors take into account the specific way an individual retains information, whether it be visual, through movement, logical or linguistic.
Our tutoring programs cater to various intelligences by:

• Observing how individual students learn best 
• Recognizing areas of strength by paying attention to their interest and confidence levels, and performance, as displayed in various subjects
• Employing tutoring strategies which support the student's particular intelligence area(s)
• Encouraging students to think critically to enhance learning 

One of the reasons people stop learning is that they become less and less willing to risk failure 

Teaching Independent Learning

Amazing Tutors recognizes that one of the most valuable skills in life is how to learn independently. Research shows that students benefit immensely from acquiring strong learning strategies. Our tutoring services focus on equipping students with the skill to learn. This skill enables learners to differentiate between types of academic problems and apply appropriate solutions in different situations. By teaching a broad range of learning strategies, our tutoring guidance provides learners with the invaluable skill to learn on their own initiative.
Our tutoring company teaches learning by:

• Teaching efficient study skills
• Facilitating discussions when appropriate
• Asking guiding questions to lead students to explore areas of knowledge independently 
• Allowing students to demonstrate their learning strategies to build  continued independence 

Art enables us to find ourselves and love ourselves at the same time 

Using Art Therapy to Help Children Develop

Amazing Tutors understands that students' learning is related to their specific intelligence areas. The arts - whether performance or visual - provide a unique opportunity for children with learning disabilities.  While some children struggle to adapt to a traditional learning environment or curriculum, these same students can thrive in artistic endeavors.  The arts can provide a lower-stress environment, boost creativity, and help challenged children learn the skills they need to succeed in life.

Why art?

Our tutoring company understands that the needs of all learners are different.  When offering tutoring help, our tutors take into account the specific way and individual retains information, whether it be visual, through art and movement, logical or linguistic.  Learning disabilities in children can range from mild to severe, and the problems can stem from inability to communicate, trouble reading, comprehension issues, or focus/concentration/hyperactivity disorders.  As an outlet, art is uniquely qualified to handle a wide range of learning disabilities in children young and old and from those simply struggling to fit in to those with extreme hurdles.  For example,PBS notes that for children with language comprehension problems or dyslexia, images can give them an ability to communicate where words can not.  Another example includes children with ADHD, where creative outlets like painting, dance, and musical performance can help them channel their energy into something productive.

Visual art for students who have trouble with verbal written communication  

The beauty of visual art is that almost all children - no matter their particular disability - have the ability to create it and use it to express their ideas and emotions.  The creation of the art itself - whether it is watercolors, clay sculpting, painting, drawing, paper mache, or anything in between - gives children with disabilities joy and helps to build self-esteem.
Beyond that, those looking to teach children concepts that appear to be out of their realm of comprehension can use visual art to get their message across and allow children to express their own understanding.  By drawing, painting, or sculpting concepts and ideas from books and other lessons, children are able to depict their thoughts on characterization, event sequencing, and even infer their own conclusions. Check out this solid collection of articles, books, and programs for bridging the gap between disability, art, and learning.

Tactile art

The benefits of hands-on, tactile learning for those with disabilities is well-documented.  While teachers have been using tactile technology to create 3D models to assist in learning, helping "students with learning difficulties like dyslexia and similar impairments such as dyscalculia and dysgraphia - which affect math and writing understanding and abilities," a similar process can be applied in the arts.  Specifically, textile artistry and even sewing can be helpful.

Performance for those with attention disorders

Perhaps the most prominent learning disability affecting children is Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) and other adjacent conditions that hamper their ability to focus, concentrate, and expend energy in appropriate ways.  New research suggests that children who channel their energy into performance art - like music, dance and play acting  - perform better on concentration - related tasks.  Check here for more on helping children with ADHD through movement.

Art therapy

Decades ago, the concept of art therapy as an actual therapeutic field may have generated scoffs.  But today, licensed art therapists are helping people (especially children) with a wide range of disabilities and conditions (including learning).  If you are looking to foster a learning-challenged child and improve focus, self-esteem, concentration, visualization, and communicating complex ideas, you may want to invest in true art therapy.

When you think about our base communications and how we deal with emotions on a viseral level, it is easy to see why overall learning through art is so compelling.  Learning disabilities, at their core, involve problems with self-expression and the ability to fully comprehend simple to complex ideas.  What better way than art - which comes so naturally to us even at an early age - to help children overcome these barriers.   - Lillian Brooks, Professional Learning Disabilities Info Communicator 

The mind's capacity for learning is limitless

Obtaining Meaning in Learning

Amazing Tutors recognizes that an important factor in learning is the ability to obtain meaning in the information studied. Research substantiates that when students are able to personalize new information presented in lessons, they become eager learners. While our tutoring services are offered in groups large enough to facilitate communal learning, with an average student-teacher ratio of 4-1, these tutoring groups are small enough to also foster personalized learning. In this small setting, our personal tutoring assistance provides students with connections between lessons and real life applications. Our tutoring center enhances learning by instilling the desire for knowledge in all learners.
Our tutoring program staff helps students personalize learning by:

• Gaining a thorough knowledge of the academic strengths/weaknesses/needs of each individual student
• Becoming familiar with the cultural backgrounds of students
• Tailoring lesson explanations appropriately for each individual learner 
• Using appropriate examples that are relevant and relatable to learners  

 Knowledge is a reserve that builds upon itself

Activating Prior Knowledge to Enhance Learning 

Amazing Tutors enhances the learning of students by activating prior knowledge and connecting it to new information. Research demonstrates that relating new information to prior knowledge is crucial to learning. Our tutoring services help learners tap into their existing knowledge base and recognize the connections between new and already-acquired information. With our tutoring help, learners are provided with the support needed to absorb new information and continue expanding their knowledge.
Our tutoring programs activate prior knowledge by:

• Following a learning model comprised of lessons that build on each other and act as a support base as learning progresses 
• Quizzing students on learned material before explaining new material
• Clarifying misconceptions and misunderstandings about previously learned material
• Asking learners guiding questions to help them see the connections between new and previously-acquired knowledge     

The purpose of learning is growth, and our minds, unlike our bodies, can continue growing as long as we live

Turning a Potential Obstacle into an Ally 

Amazing Tutors understands that, while useful in most cases, prior knowledge may sometimes form barriers to the acquisition of new information. Research shows that students often experience difficulty in retaining new information because it contradicts their prior knowledge. Our tutoring center respects various beliefs and provides a safe environment for learners to share and reflect upon their understanding of the world. With our tutoring help, this potential obstacle is turned into an ally that encourages critical thinking.
Our tutoring programs overcome the obstacle prior learning may pose by:

• Remaining aware that students, regardless of age, have understandings that may conflict with the subjects being taught
• Allowing students to share their understanding of the world
• Respecting students' beliefs while leading them to understand the perspective taught in school
• Encouraging students to reflect and reconcile their prior knowledge with their new learning       

Openness towards learning is the responsibility of the student, regardless of age 

Enhancing Learning through Self-regulation 

Amazing Tutors helps students enhance their learning experience by promoting self-regulation.  Research shows that developing an understanding of themselves, their own perceptions and learning strategies, helps students regulate and adjust their understanding when new information requires it. Our tutoring center promotes self-awareness by helping learners become aware of their own personal beliefs and approach to learning, thus instilling an openness to learning.
Our tutoring program helps learners become self-aware and to self-regulate by:

• Maintaining open dialogue with students about their learning
• Asking students to reflect on their assignments
• Facilitating group discussions when appropriate 
• Asking questions to make students aware of their personal way of learning

Making the connection between one's learning and one's world is key

Attaining the Skill to Transfer Knowledge 

Amazing Tutors helps students transfer their in-class learning to the world at large. Research shows that students often have difficulty relating what they learn in class to the real world. However, the ability to transfer this knowledge is essential to learning as it solidifies students' understanding of the knowledge components. Our tutoring program helps learners obtain the necessary skill to apply their in-class learning to the outside world, promoting a more thorough understanding of their environment/society.
Our tutoring center guides students to transfer their knowledge by:

• Assisting students in seeing how different school subjects relate to one another
• Encouraging self-regulating behavior, in terms of prior/barriers to new learning 
• Teaching for understanding over memorization    
• Outlining real-world examples that pertain to the lesson material 

Solidly-grasped knowledge becomes a treasure which accompanies its owner everywhere

Promoting Understanding Over Memorization 

Amazing Tutors helps students understand subject material instead of memorizing answers. Research has illustrated that information is retained for longer periods of time when it is clearly understood, but easily forgotten when it is memorized. As learners approach assignments, our tutoring staff encourage them to explore each component of the assignment thoroughly, and to discuss with other students about the real life applications of problems, in order to promote understanding. Our tutoring services promote understanding by: 

• Requiring students to explain their work in their own words
• Providing examples that demonstrate real-world application of lesson concepts
• Gradually increasing the level of difficulty of assignments
• Leading students to think about how abstract principles relate to specific concrete examples Scroll Up