Your Pals In Learning
Dina Dumonceaux
TUTOR
Dina is a third-year Bachelor of Secondary Education student at the University of Alberta, where she has gained valuable teaching experience. She volunteered as a tutor with the Homework Club at the Centre for Newcomers during her Community Service Learning (CSL) semester and has also taught customers about their security systems and internet services with TELUS, while training apprentices in her role as an electrician. Her teaching approach includes greeting students, starting sessions on time, and facilitating introductions, after which she assesses students’ current lessons to identify key focus areas. Dina believes in allowing students to take the lead, offering assistance as questions arise, and utilizes the Socratic method to engage learners. She incorporates various learning tools such as concept maps, scaffolding, practice questions, feedback, and vetted videos. Currently pursuing her degree, Dina previously attended MacEwan University for a Bachelor of Science before transferring to the UofA. She holds a Journeyman Ticket from the NAIT Electrician program, earned in 2012, along with a Masters Certification in 2018, and graduated from high school in 2001.
Olivia Sager
TUTOR
Olivia graduated with a Bachelor of Kinesiology in 2021, majoring in Physical Activity and Health. Currently, she is pursuing her Bachelor of Education in Secondary Education, majoring in Physical Education and minoring in Biology. With experience tutoring in both Math and Science courses at a high school level, Olivia also boasts a background in coaching soccer and working in health promotion with elementary and junior high schools.
Her passion for learning about the human body ignited during junior high, coinciding with her interest in sports, ultimately leading to her pursuit of a Kinesiology degree. Olivia's teaching philosophy is deeply influenced by her previous education and interests. She implements active learning into her practice, alongside inquiry-based learning and interactive lessons.
During her free time, Olivia finds solace outdoors and enjoys attending group fitness classes.
Mohamoud Osman
TUTOR
Mohamoud, a dedicated educator, completed his education within the francophone system before furthering his studies at the French campus of the University of Alberta, earning a Bachelor's degree in Education with a major in General Science and a minor in French. Proficient in teaching Language Arts, Science, and Mathematics, particularly in French, Mohamoud brings a wealth of subject expertise to his classroom. With two years of teaching experience spanning students aged 10 to 17, he adeptly tailors instruction to individual needs, fostering academic growth. Mohamoud's teaching philosophy prioritizes a growth mindset, viewing mistakes as learning opportunities, and promoting inquiry-based learning, critical thinking, and problem-solving skills. His personal interests in sports and chess deeply influence his teaching approach, integrating values of teamwork, discipline, and strategic thinking into his lessons. As a perfectly bilingual educator Mohamoud effectively communicates and connects with his students in a diverse linguistic context.
Natalia McKinnon
TUTOR
Natalia holds a Bachelor of Education from the University of Alberta. Her expertise spans all foundational subjects required at the elementary level, with a particular passion for cultivating reading and writing skills through a comprehensive approach that intertwines creative storytelling and analytical skills. With multiple years of experience in kids' camps and classroom settings, Natalia has honed her ability to cater to various age groups and academic competencies, from preschool to middle school. She embraces a holistic approach to education, considering each student's social, emotional, academic, and physical needs. Natalia employs differentiated instruction tailored to individual learning styles and capabilities, drawing on her intuitive and inquisitive nature to adapt flexibly to the unique challenges presented by each student. Beyond the classroom, Natalia advocates for active living, integrating daily physical activities into her teaching methodology. Her extensive experience working with students with special needs further complements her professional skills, allowing her to craft inclusive, supportive, and adaptive teaching strategies for every student's success.
Ivie Ukhun
TUTOR
As a university student pursuing a Bachelor of Commerce degree with a major in Accounting, Ivie's academic path is driven by her passion for mathematics and business. Specializing in teaching social studies, math, and English, she infuses her lessons with the same enthusiasm she holds for reading books. Ivie's love for math and current events uniquely equips her to cater to subjects such as social studies and math.
With certification and experience in childcare, Ivie has had the privilege of working with students of various ages, fostering optimism and an open-minded approach to different learning styles and patterns in children. She firmly believes in the significance of tailoring learning styles to benefit students, recognizing the substantial impact it can have on information retention.
Drawing from her childcare certification and experience, Ivie prioritizes catering to diverse learning styles, fostering a supportive environment that acknowledges each child's uniqueness. Key to her approach is building relationships and understanding students' needs, allowing for tailored instruction. She promotes active engagement through hands-on activities and discussions, facilitating understanding and retention, while providing constructive and timely feedback to spur growth. Continuously learning and adapting, Ivie's philosophy centers on empowering students by recognizing their individuality, fostering an inclusive learning experience where all can thrive.
Her interest in reading, current events, and history plays a pivotal role in her teaching, emphasizing the importance of relating topics to students' lives and interests to underscore their significance.
Through her experience in childcare, Ivie has worked with students of diverse backgrounds and needs, fostering patience and honing active listening skills. Committed to working at the pace of each student, she prioritizes creating a safe and understanding environment for all learners.
Irene Vinod
TUTOR
Irene is currently in her third year at the University of Alberta, pursuing a Bachelor of Science in Chemistry with a minor in Sociology. With an honors diploma from high school in the U.S. and certifications as a nurse aide and in CPR, she has developed strong subject expertise in math and English, which she has taught to students ranging from middle school to high school over the past four years. Irene's teaching philosophy centers on breaking down complex topics into relatable concepts, fostering patience and encouragement to help every student succeed. Additionally, she enjoys swimming and believes that consistent practice is essential for improvement, a principle she applies to her teaching. With experience working with students with ADHD and ADD, Irene brings valuable skills to her tutoring sessions.