When it comes to brainstorming, I think it is important for the tutee to have a comfortable working environment so he or she can explain his or her ideas freely. I think this structure was appropriate for the session because Sarah’s concerns were based on her writing process rather than her actual writing. The way I structure a brainstorming session in general is to start with the instructor’s requirements, then break the prompt down piece by piece. If the student already has ideas, then I will try to find ways the student can see his or her ideas from a different perspective. When a student does not have any ideas, I try as best as I can to not blatantly state ideas; rather, I try to get the student to realize potential ideas by asking the student questions about their paper topic and his or her understanding of the assignment. Between 7:58-8:52, I examined two of Sarah’s research topics, and suggested that she combine the two topics to create a new, and perhaps, interesting perspective to her research. Since she gave me material to work with, I feel that I handled the situation appropriately. She responded positively to the idea and wrote down notes about my …show more content…
The talk ratio was probably 40% me and 60% Sarah. I think this was appropriate considering Sarah was discussing her ideas with the paper. I did my best to not interrupt, and I indicated that I was following her train of thought by saying “okay.” (Note: After watching this video, I realized I said okay at least 20 times.) I believe I was an effective listener because I maintained eye contact when she spoke and nodded in agreement to what she was saying. However, I noticed that my eyes tended to wavier between her and the computer screen. It was appropriate when we were both looking at the computer, but I realize I need to make sure that I am making full eye contact with students rather than staring at their laptops. Sarah’s nonverbal communication and actions indicated that she listened to me when I spoke as well. She nodded and kept eye contact, and as I mentioned before she took notes while I talked. Overall, the video confirmed listening to consultants is one of my