LoginIrene - Cardiff tutor
Information About Irene:
Personal Description:
Hello! I'm a Senior Lecturer in Cybersecurity and Data Science at Cardiff University, with over 10 years of teaching and tutoring experience. I have worked with learners at a wide range of levels, from GCSE and A-Level through to higher education, helping them improve their understanding, build confidence and achieve their academic goals.
I specialise in Computer Science, Digital Technology, Cybersecurity, Python Programming and Data Science, with experience supporting both students who are just starting out in computing and those working on more advanced topics.
Over the years, I have helped many students improve their grades and develop confidence in subjects they previously found difficult. One of the most rewarding aspects of tutoring for me is seeing students realise that they are capable of much more than they initially thought. I have even worked with students who had not originally considered university but, after developing their confidence and interest in the subject, went on to pursue higher education.
My teaching style is friendly, patient and adaptable. I appreciate that every student learns differently, so I tailor my sessions to the individual rather than following a one-size-fits-all approach. This might mean breaking challenging concepts into manageable steps, using real-world examples, working through problems together or finding a completely different way of explaining something until it clicks.
For school and college students, sessions can be tailored to their specific syllabus and exam board, including Computer Science and Digital Technology, with support for theory, programming, revision, coursework and exam technique.
For more advanced learners, I can provide support across a broader range of computing topics, including programming, cybersecurity, data science, computer systems and research and technical skills.
My aim isn't simply to help students achieve better grades. I want them to become more confident and independent learners, develop strong problem-solving skills and, hopefully, discover an interest in computing and technology that continues beyond their studies.
Teaching Experience:
2022-Present - Lecturer / Senior Lecturer, Cardiff University, School of Computer Science & Informatics
I teach across Computer Science, Cybersecurity and Data Science, working with students at undergraduate and postgraduate level. My role includes lectures, practical teaching, project supervision and supporting students in developing their technical, analytical, research and problem-solving skills.
2016-Present - Private Tutor
I have over 10 years of private tutoring experience and have successfully supported a wide range of learners, from GCSE and A-Level students to those undertaking more advanced study.
My tutoring experience covers Computer Science, Digital Technology, programming and wider computing topics. I have helped students prepare for examinations and assessments, strengthen their understanding of difficult concepts, develop their programming and problem-solving skills and become more confident and independent learners.
I am particularly proud that tutoring has sometimes had an impact beyond grades. Some students I have worked with have developed a much greater interest in computing and education through our sessions, with several deciding to pursue university when this had not previously been part of their plans.
2016-2018 - Teaching Assistant, Cardiff University, School of Computer Science & Informatics
Delivered undergraduate and postgraduate laboratories and tutorials across a range of Computer Science topics, including Python and Java Programming, Web Applications, Computer Architecture, Distributed and Cloud Computing, Data Visualisation with Python and group software projects.
Tutoring Approach:
My approach to tutoring is based on a simple principle: every student learns differently.
I start by understanding the student's current level, what they are finding difficult and what they would like to achieve. From there, I tailor the sessions around their individual needs, whether that's filling gaps in knowledge, preparing for an assessment, improving programming skills or tackling more advanced concepts.
Depending on the student, I can provide support with:
- Computer Science and Digital Technology
- Python programming and computational thinking
- Cybersecurity and computer systems
- Data science and related technical skills
- Exam preparation and exam technique
- Coursework and project guidance
- Revision and consolidation of difficult topics
- Problem-solving and analytical skills
- More advanced computing concepts
A key part of my teaching is that I don't simply give students the answer. I help them understand how to approach and think through a problem so that they gradually become able to solve similar problems independently.
I also try to make computing relatable and interesting by connecting concepts to real technology and practical examples. I want students to feel comfortable asking questions, making mistakes and saying when something doesn't make sense.
Ultimately, whether someone is preparing for their GCSEs or A-Levels, developing their programming skills or tackling more advanced computing topics, my aim is the same: to help them understand the subject, build confidence and become a more independent learner.
Subjects Taught:
Qualifications:
- First Honors BSc Computer Science
- PhD in Computer Science/ Cyber Security
Further Information:
| Availability: | Weekends / Weekdays (evenings) |
| Types of Tutoring: | From their home / Online |
| References Supplied? | Yes |
| Current DBS/CRB Check? | Yes |
| Additional Languages Spoken: | Greek, Italian |
