Statistics is horrendously taught, but it doesn't have to be. Enjoy learning stats with a passionate educator

Find out more about James

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

  I started tutoring during my undergrad studies in science and instantly enjoyed the personal aspect of it.

• 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 several science subjects, mainly relating to Biology and Chemistry, statistics, and the GAMSAT (medical school admissions test).

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

  I have one particular University tutor who explained things really simply, which was polar opposite to a lot of the teaching. It really made me realise how much better our teaching can be by simplifying concepts.

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

  To be a good tutor you need patience and great communication skills. There are so many people who have the knowledge, patience and communication is what sets tutors apart.

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

  I still remember the day that my study group memorised the ten steps of glycolysis including the enzymes involved. We all said at the start that we would never get there, but figured out ways to attach meaning to basic process that was happening and made that into a story, which made each step far easier to remember. I find attaching meaning to generally quite arbitrary concepts is really helpful to understand them.

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

  All science subjects have difficult concepts, and I encounter this daily. What is important is having the tools to break them down into bits you can understand, and slowly build your understanding.

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

  Teaching is something I am really passionate about. I find that 'lightbulb' moment that students get when they understand something they have been struggling with for days, weeks, or months incredibly rewarding.

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

  I think my lessons are fun! I often come up with silly analogies which I think assist in understanding and remembering concepts, but also allow us to have a laugh. I think this is important to make the lessons more engaging and keep students interested.