Each student is an individual, and he or she thinks in his or her own way. Therefore, each student needs an opportunity to learn in a way that best suits his or her needs. Flexibility is key to helping a student develop a lifelong passion for learning, which is my ultimate goal.

A typical first session would be exploratory, for lack of a better word. My student and I would get to know each other a bit. We'd then do some diagnostics, not necessarily in the form of a test, to see where the student was in terms of what his or her goal was. We'd then establish a game plan together for future sessions.

First, I'd establish a set of goals so the student is accountable. Then, I'd provide feedback on each of these milestones as they are completed, and I'd offer the student the chance to provide feedback. Within that set of goals, I'd incorporate broad, open-ended questions for the student to answer, as well as establish certain scenarios, where appropriate, for the student to consider as a part of developing problem-solving skills and higher-order thinking. Also as a part of the set of goals, I'd begin teaching the student how to categorize information and sort by relevance. Lastly, as each goal was met, I'd invite the student to reconsider the whole game plan with me in order to both involve him or her in making the lesson plan in an effort to instill a sense of responsibility in him or her, and to provide him or her with a sense of ownership over his or her learning.

Students stay motivated best when they're able to see progress. Establishing small, short-term goals that are easy to accomplish is a great way to have visual progress. Additionally, providing feedback and encouragement is key.

I'd reevaluate my teaching methods first. Different methods work better for different people. Perhaps tweaking things on my end would effect a positive change on the student's end. If that didn't work, I'd seek further supplementary material and contact several friends of mine that are teachers and professors and ask for their expert advice.

First, I would identify what the student understood and what the student didn't in both specific and general terms. Then, I'd put together a list of comprehensive questions for specific readings for the student to answer. Then, I'd assist the student in constructing multiple graphic organizers in efforts to summarize and identify structures of specific readings.

I find that creating a solid plan of action based on a student's specific needs is the key to success.

The best way to engage a student in a subject that doesn't interest them is to determine what does interest them and connect those things with the subject at hand.