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Teaching English online- Getting started
Theskinomad helps you learn how to teach ESL online. With so many of us glued to our screens today, It’s probably no surprise that companies are taking advantage of the internet to connect with the masses around the world and teaching is no exception. You don’t need to be a mega marketplaces like Amazon to earn the big bucks online.
The current pandemic has made online learning more popular than ever with the majority of school children around the world distance learning, the need for online English is greater than ever. You no longer have to travel across borders to teach foreign students, you don’t even need a classroom or workplace to meet in person. If you have a reliable internet connection, you can earn a killing teaching English online all from the comfort of your own home in your baggy trousers.
What is teaching online?
Teaching ESL online is very different to teaching in person. Say goodbye to using outdated textbooks and photocopying worksheets. Teaching online is awesome because you can access a whole heap of different resources from Youtube videos and blogs to ESL apps and games!
Online English platform companies hire native English speakers to teach the English language on their platforms. Some companies target students from all over the world while some of the largest online platforms focus on the high-demand Chinese market. Many of these companies have their own curriculum and materials as part of a fun interactive platform! Others have lesson plans for you to use or extra resources to help you plan your own lessons.
Who will I teach?
You will most likely teach thousands of different students, potentially in group classes must most companies hire teachers to teach one-to-one classes. You may work up to having recurring or regular students and in some companies you might have the same students each week but the majority of cases you will see a different student each time you open your schedule.
As a teacher you will work for one of these companies, working remotely to teach English to the students on the platform. You will be hired as an independent contractor which means you will have more freedom than you would have if you were a traditional classroom teacher however as such you will have to organize and pay your taxes independently.
Who can teach English online?
Almost anyone who can speak English can teach English True/ False? False. To be a successful online English teacher whether you start your own company or you work with another, there are some basic requirements that will help you succeed.
Be a Native English speaker. (though some such as Cambly, will hire fluent speakers too)
Bachelors degree (there are some exceptions to this rule)
Don't have one? 3 or 4 years of studying to be an online EFL teacher sound like too much hard work? Don't panic. While most of the online English teaching world wants to hire teachers with degrees, it doesn’t mean there aren’t positions out there for those who don’t have one. It is not always a requirement and if you do happen to have one but you're wondering whether it counts/is relevant, although it is preferable to be in the field of education, it is not essential.
Here are 5 companies I can recommend if you don't have a degree:
- Palfish. Apply here to teach from your phone or tablet! Use my code: 02103285 for guidance once you've created a profile.
- Preply
- Verbling
- Italki
TEFL certificate (although some companies may not require this, it definitely comes in handy and is a confident boost to your application and profile.)
Degree or no degree, go get TEFL certified now! Reckon you don't need a fancy certification to land an English teaching job, heard a friend went to Thailand and taught without one? While it may be possible to teach without one it is definitely advantageous! If you want to learn how to teach English to non-native speakers and get money, a good TEFL course will give you solid grounding in TEFL-specific teaching methodology, other essential skills and most importantly it shows prospective employers that you're serious and capable.
Love working with people, especially children!
The online English learning industry is saturated with children, meaning you'll more than likely be teaching the youngsters. If you want to stay sane and continue to enjoy your job and all its benefits, it's important to get along well with children. Here is a list of companies you can work for if children aren't your cup of tea.
- Preply
- Cambly
- English First
- Learnlight
- italki.
- SkimaTalk.
- Open English
Regular access to high speed internet connection, a laptop/computer with a webcam and microphone. No internet = no lesson = no money. Click here for tips on how to have a reliable internet connection wherever you so.
A quiet place to teach and a learning appropriate background.
While you don't need to be in your own home to teach English, you do need a quiet place so that you can hear your students and most importantly so that they can hear you. To help you out, I recommend investing in a good pair of noise cancelling head phones. It is also important to consider your background when setting up your teaching space. What will your students see in the camera? If the company you work for permits a simple clean and tidy background, make sure yours is clean and tidy! I recommend a plane white wall with a map/poster with your name to start with. Another important set-up requirement is great lighting!
Personality teacher traits! You will enjoy your job much more if you love working with people, especially children, and you are a patient, understanding person who can bring lots of energy to the classroom!
If you've ever learned a new language yourself you'll know just how nerve-wracking it can be. Therefore it's your job as a teacher to coach your students in a way that builds confidence. Everybody has a different learning style and knowing how your students learn best is a great way to help them feel comfortable in your classroom and boost their progress.
It's not a requirement but be sure not to quit your job right away and make sure you have enough to get you by while you set up. Not all companies offer a get rich quick situation.
What is TEFL?
TEFL is the acronym for Teaching English as a foreign language, or simply English Language instruction for non-native speakers. Also known as Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages (TESOL), English Language Teaching (ELT), and teaching ESL (English as a Second Language). In practical terms, there is no difference between “TEFL” and “TESOL”, the certifications are Likewise, interchangeable.
What does a TEL certification involve?
Accredited TEFL certification will provide instruction from a highly qualified instructor covering the skills and tools you will need to work as a professional English teacher. Each course will include:
At least 100 hours of coursework
6-20 hours of live practice teaching and observation with non-native English speakers
An accredited curriculum from a recognized, independent organization within the field
Instruction provided by a qualified instructor
Reckon you've got what it takes? Here's how do I get started? In 7 simple steps:
With so many companies to choose from, websites to traul, requirements to filter through, time zones to consider, it can be terribly daunting to find a place to start. Here are my recommendations on how to start your search for the perfect online English teaching job for you:
Step 1. Create a killer CV.
Step 2. Take a sharp and smiley profile picture.
Step 3. Write a brief description of why you want to be an online English teacher - this can be tailored to the company on your application or cover letter.
Step 4. Get all the necessary equipment to record an intro video and to be able to start teaching right away.
Step 5. Research applicable online English companies. Consider your limitations and preferences.
Step 6. Complete Application form.
Step 7. Record a fabulous application/interview video/ prepare for 1-1 interview
Step 8. Congrats you’ve been accepted! Now what?
Which company should I work for?
Check out the following companies that I have worked with and loved. Each article will provide you with info about the company, your role as a teacher and my individual opinion of what it's like working on their platform.
PALFISH
CAMBLY . How to apply and teach on Cambly and Cambly Kids. Teaching English online with Cambly and Cambly Kids, a review.
Other companies to consider are:
VIPkids (US only).
Outschool (not just EFL teaching)
Magic ears (now accepts British passports)
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