Bruce

Certified Tutor

Hi there. ..let's get to it.

So, just what is a tutor? I found a good all encompassing definition as follows: "Tutor is a private support, usually provided by an expert teacher; some one with deep knowledge or defined expertise in a particular subject, or set of subjects."
I believe I fit this description pretty well. To briefly qualify this...I have a Master's degree in Geology and Geochemistry, a BA as well. My practical experience includes: 15 plus years of working in the precious metals industry as an exploration and drill site geologist; 12 years as a geologist for the State of New Mexico working on the environment. I also have been cutting colored gemstones for over 30 years and made a business based on this skill. I completed the "Geologist's Trinity" many years ago having walked on a glacier (Mt. Shasta); experienced an big earthquake (Sylmar 1971 quake); worked on an active volcano (Kilauea and Mauna Loa in Hawaii).

I do have some background in teaching. I spent a few years as a "substitute" teacher in the local school system. I started every class with my "Rock of the Day". Fifteen minutes at the start of the class...I found the students were like sponges...just eager to learn. I realized that the public schools (and even colleges) are shorting our children. I will not bore you with my beliefs on education. Suffice it to say, I do not believe the teachers are qualified to be teaching above elementary school without a Bachelors in their subject matter. To continue....I worked as a Teacher Assistant when matriculating through my Masters degree in physical geology and petrography (microscope work).

I have spent alot of time on the baseball field with young players up through high school. I managed Little League, Majors and was a high school coach. Showing players how to play the game well, how to pitch, game psyche. My players had good records and had fun. I had a blast.

Now I will admit for Earth Science that I prefer to work with older students. Geology can be a pretty tough class. First, there is alot of nomenclature. Without it, one cannot talk about it or appreciate it all. For instance, you just have to know what a "granite" is...how it forms, the mineralogy, where it forms, are there precious metals or gemstones to be found, its topography, how it erodes. All involve alot of the other sciences. This is why geology is the "King of Sciences"...we have to make use of all the others to explain our planet and its processes. You therefore have to be well versed in all sciences. So, I think older students have more science background to handle geology easier.
My teaching philosophy ? I assume you already have a teacher and textbook. When was the last time you looked at some maps or a world globe. They are vital visual tools in the geologic story. I like the Socratic method of teaching. You should be reading your textbook, taking notes in class, know what your assignments are. I am here to further explain or find a better way to explain things to you. I have that deep knowledge and practical experience I have alluded to earlier. You need to tap it with your questions or your needs for further discussion. Think of me as "your coach".
Why tutor ??? It is a way of my giving back to my community (or country). I have this knowledge and experience...I cannot take it with me. I enjoy passing it on...from a curveball to walking on active volcanoes. Besides, this dinosaur has the time.
So, give "Coach Bruce" a try, let's see if I can make sense of it all, and get you a good grade to boot.