5 years of tutoring experience, currently a Teaching Associate for mechanical engineering first and second year units at Monash University, and tutoring high school VCE, ATAR, WACE, and HSC subjects.

Find out more about Teoh

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

  I developed a strong interest in math and physics during high school when I realized how these subjects explain the fundamental principles of the world around us. I enjoyed problem-solving and the logical thinking required, which led me to pursue engineering. My passion for private tutoring started over two years ago when I saw many students struggling with math and physics, not because they lacked ability but because they hadn't been taught in a way that made sense to them. Through Superprof, I've taught over 50 students, adapting my methods to their learning styles. Seeing them gain confidence and improve their grades has been incredibly rewarding.

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

  I teach math and physics, focusing on helping students develop strong problem-solving skills. In math, I enjoy teaching calculus and algebra because they build the foundation for many real-world applications. In physics, I love discussing mechanics and thermodynamics, as they explain how the world around us works. Some students find complex topics like vector calculus or electromagnetism challenging. While these can be difficult, I enjoy breaking them down into simpler steps, using real-life examples to make them more intuitive. My goal is to help students not just memorize formulas but truly understand the concepts behind them.

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

  Yes, I had a high school physics teacher who truly inspired me. He had a way of making complex topics feel simple by using real-world examples and interactive problem-solving. His passion for teaching made learning enjoyable and encouraged me to see physics not just as a subject, but as a way to understand the world. Physics itself is a very complicated subject, but if you have a good and motivated teacher, it can be really interesting. My teacher showed me that with the right approach, even the most difficult concepts can become engaging. This influenced my tutoring style-I focus on making lessons interactive and relatable, helping students truly understand and appreciate the subject rather than just memorizing formulas. Seeing my students have those 'aha' moments, just like I did in his class, is one of the most rewarding parts of tutoring.

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

  I believe a good tutor needs patience, adaptability, and strong communication skills. Every student learns differently, so it's important to adapt explanations to suit their understanding. Patience is key because some concepts take time to grasp, and a supportive approach helps students feel comfortable asking questions. A tutor should also be engaging and passionate about the subject. Physics and math can be challenging, but enthusiasm makes learning enjoyable. I always try to make lessons interactive and relate concepts to real-world applications, helping students stay motivated. Finally, problem-solving and clarity are essential. Breaking down complex topics into simpler steps ensures students build a strong foundation rather than just memorizing formulas.

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

  I remember struggling with projectile motion in high school physics-it felt abstract and confusing. One day, my teacher used a simple experiment: he threw a ball and asked us to predict its landing spot using equations. Suddenly, the formulas made sense! That hands-on approach turned a difficult topic into something intuitive. This experience shaped my tutoring style. I always look for practical ways to explain concepts, whether through real-life examples or simple experiments. I want my students to feel that 'aha' moment, just like I did, because when you truly understand a concept, it sticks with you forever.

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

  One challenge I faced in physics was understanding the complex nature of electromagnetism. The abstract concepts and mathematical rigor made it hard to grasp initially. To overcome this, I spent time breaking down the concepts into smaller, digestible parts and sought additional resources like practical experiments and simulations to visualize the theories. Now, I apply the same approach in tutoring. I find that many students struggle with abstract physics concepts, so I focus on visual aids and real-world examples to make these concepts more tangible. It's important to be patient with these challenges because, with the right approach, students can master even the most difficult topics.

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

  My particular passion lies in making abstract concepts in physics and math more accessible to students. I find it incredibly rewarding to help students understand the fundamental principles behind the theories, especially when they've struggled with a topic for a long time. What excites me about teaching is seeing the 'aha' moments when a student finally understands something that once seemed out of reach. This passion drives me to create engaging and relatable lessons that build students' confidence and curiosity about the subject. I believe when students are excited about learning, they are more likely to excel and apply their knowledge in real-world situations.

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

  What makes me a Superprof is my ability to make complex topics in math and physics accessible and engaging for students. I combine my strong academic background in engineering with practical tutoring experience to help students not only understand the material but also see its real-world applications. I believe in tailoring lessons to each student's unique learning style, and I take pride in building their confidence along the way. With over two years of experience on Superprof, I've developed a teaching approach that encourages active participation, fosters curiosity, and ensures that students leave each session with a better grasp of the material and the motivation to continue learning.