Marie

Throughout my life I have been actively involved in education as a teacher and learner. Following my initial teacher training, I went on to study for three higher degrees culminating in a Ph D. During this time I was also learning to play the piano increasing my appreciation of the learning experience. I have tried to cultivate a teaching style based on encouragement and have valued relationships built up in the teaching situation. Now having stepped back from teaching with the OU, I am keen to continue teaching individuals using the same approach based on support and encouragement.

Tutoring Experience

After qualifying as a teacher in 1965, I went on to teach English Language and Literature to GCSE, A level students and adult learners in a variety of settings including a prison and a psychiatric hospital. From 1994 to 2005 I was a part-time tutor in Adult Education in the Institute of Continuing Education at the University of Cambridge and from 1988 to 2019 I worked for the Open University teaching a variety of courses based on literary studies.

Tutoring Approach

My approach is based on offering support and encouragement to learners. When teaching in the group situation I try to cultivate trust and mutual respect within the group so that students can flourish in an atmosphere which feels safe to them. I bring the same approach to marking work using encouragement and praise when I can. I stress the importance of active learning so that students appreciate that I will do my best as a teacher and that they need to participate actively in their own learning.