Business Graduate with an MBA Business Studies and Economics Lessons- Cambridge and NCEA Level 01 /02/03

Find out more about Madhushani Mekhala

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

  I've had a passion for tutoring since my school days in 2005, when classmates often sought my help with challenging lessons. This early interest in education led me to pursue roles in the Education, Information Technology, and Corporate sectors, where I was deeply involved in learning and development. Despite my career in the corporate world, I remained dedicated to teaching, offering private lessons to students. My enthusiasm for Business and Economics began at a young age, influenced by a micro business, first managed by my father. After marriage, I was fortunate to manage a small business founded by my husband. This opportunity allowed me to apply my knowledge to practical business scenarios.I was always eager to explore and discover innovative ways for businesses to enhance their operations.

• 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 thoroughly enjoy teaching business studies because it provides comprehensive insights into how different types of businesses operate. What excites me the most is how the latest innovations have reinvented fundamental theories in business management. Economics is my favourite subject to teach, as it combines intuition, math, and graphs. I particularly love demonstrating how economics intersects with our daily lives. My favourite topics are in macroeconomics, as they address contemporary issues related to macroeconomic theories. Applying theoretical knowledge to current macroeconomic events makes learning engaging and fun. It is incredibly satisfying to see students understand how the economy works and watch their curiosity and comprehension grow. I find it a little boring discussing topics like motivational theories, which were established decades ago but remain fundamental, somewhat less enjoyable in teaching as they can appear repetitive and basic over time.

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

  I have had the privilege of working with incredible teachers from the UK, Australia, and Sri Lanka. They have offered unique perspectives on teaching, emphasizing the importance of inclusivity for all students, regardless of their learning abilities. I am deeply grateful to all of them and to my peers, who have provided me with numerous opportunities to grow as a teacher.

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

  A tutor must be able to understand the unique needs of their students. Knowing why they seek extra support helps tailor the teaching approach to meet their specific requirements. Time management is crucial, as a tutor is expected to achieve many learning outcomes within a short period. Additionally, it requires extra time to read and acquire new knowledge. Being kind and empathetic is essential for assisting students with difficulties. A growth mind-set is key for both gaining new knowledge and helping learners achieve their goals. It's equally important for the tutor to embrace this mind-set to effectively deliver on learning outcomes

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

  Trade-offs and opportunity costs are closely related concepts in economics. Understanding the fundamentals behind these concepts helps individuals make more rational decisions. Every decision involves an opportunity cost and a trade-off. For instance, students must decide whether to go to college or start working after high school. Understanding the actual opportunity cost of not going to college involves calculating both the short-term and long-term costs and benefits. This has always been my favourite example to explain opportunity cost and trade-offs in economics

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

  Time management is the most challenging aspect of private tutoring. Achieving learning outcomes within a short period requires additional time for lesson preparation and planning. Additionally, staying up-to-date with issues and trends related to the subjects demands extra time for reading and research

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

  I am passionate about creating more opportunities for students(people) to reach their maximum potential. I find it intellectually stimulating to help students who struggle with a subject. Identifying and addressing their unique learning needs across different subjects is a challenge I embrace. My goal is to empower each student(individual) to achieve their full potential.

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

  I am confident that I have gained adequate knowledge and competence in the subjects I tutor. Additionally, I have developed a strong understanding of teaching and learning methodologies, enabling me to prepare more effective lessons for my students. I firmly believe that my ability to see the silver lining in each person is my superpower, enabling me to become a Superprof.