Teaching English online has opened up opportunities for people worldwide, offering the flexibility to work from home or while traveling. Whether you’re looking to start a new career or earn some extra income, learning how to teach English online can be rewarding. But what steps do you need to take? In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything from certifications to platforms and tips for success.
How To Teach English Online?
You’ll need a few key things to teach English online: a solid internet connection, a computer or tablet with a webcam, and, most importantly, a certification such as TEFL (Teaching English as a Foreign Language).
Once you’ve got these basics, you can apply to platforms or market yourself as a freelance teacher. Whether you work for an online company or teach privately, being organized and interactive are key to keeping your students engaged and learning effectively.
Why Teach English Online?
The demand for English teachers, especially online, has grown dramatically over the last few years. Many students, from children to adults, need English to improve their academic and career prospects. Teaching online gives you the chance to work with students all around the globe, and you can set your schedule.
Some key benefits of teaching English online include:
- Flexibility: You can teach from anywhere, at any time.
- Global Reach: Teach students from different countries and backgrounds.
- Income Potential: Some platforms offer competitive pay, especially if you’re experienced or have special skills.
- Work-Life Balance: You control how many hours you work and when.
What Do You Need to Teach English Online?
Here are the basic tools and requirements to get started teaching English online:
1. TEFL or TESOL Certification
While some platforms may not require a degree, most will ask for a certification. The TEFL certification is the most common, and it shows that you have been trained to teach English to non-native speakers. A 120-hour TEFL course is recommended, but you can also consider TESOL (Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages) if you want to teach in English-speaking countries.
2. Reliable Technology
You will need a laptop or desktop computer with a good webcam and microphone. A strong and reliable internet connection is crucial for smooth video calls with your students. Many platforms have specific tech requirements, so be sure to check what your preferred platform needs.
3. Online Teaching Platforms
Several platforms connect teachers with students. Platforms like VIPKid, Cambly, and iTalki are well-known for hiring online English teachers. Some platforms may require you to have a bachelor’s degree, but others only ask for a TEFL certification and native English fluency.
4. A Quiet Workspace
Teaching online requires focus, so it’s important to have a quiet space where you won’t be disturbed. This helps both you and your students concentrate on the lesson. Make sure your workspace is well-lit and professional-looking for video calls.
How To Start Teaching English Online?
Once you have your certification, technology, and workspace ready, it’s time to start teaching. Here’s how to go about it:
1. Choose a Platform or Go Freelance
The first decision to make is whether you want to teach through an established platform or go freelance. Teaching through platforms like VIPKid or Preply is easier to start because they bring you students and handle administrative tasks. If you prefer independence, freelancing allows you to set your rates and find your clients.
2. Create a Profile
If you’re using an online platform, create a strong profile. Highlight your teaching experience, certifications, and any special skills, like teaching business English or preparing students for exams like the TOEFL or IELTS. Make your profile professional yet approachable, and upload a clear, friendly photo.
3. Prepare Lessons
Most online platforms provide lesson plans, but if you’re freelancing or want to add a personal touch, create your lessons. Make sure each lesson is structured and includes components for speaking, listening, reading, and writing. Use visual aids, games, or videos to keep students engaged and make learning fun.
4. Market Yourself
If you choose to teach independently, you’ll need to market yourself. Create a website or blog, use social media to promote your services, and ask satisfied students to provide reviews. Building a solid reputation can help attract more students and allow you to charge higher rates.
Tips for Effective Online Teaching
Teaching English online may seem simple, but some techniques can help you become more effective:
1. Engage with Your Students
Online learning can sometimes feel distant, so it’s important to keep your students engaged. Use interactive tools, ask questions, and encourage participation. For younger students, use props or games to make lessons more dynamic.
2. Adapt to Different Learning Styles
Each student learns differently. Some may prefer visual learning, while others respond better to auditory or hands-on teaching. Be flexible and adjust your teaching style to fit your student’s needs. Use online whiteboards, videos, or other digital tools to enhance your lessons.
3. Provide Regular Feedback
Giving feedback is crucial for helping students improve. After each lesson, offer constructive advice and praise their progress. This helps build their confidence and keeps them motivated.
4. Stay Organized
Teaching multiple students can get overwhelming if you’re not organized. Use tools like Google Calendar or Trello to keep track of lesson plans, student progress, and your teaching schedule. Staying organized ensures that you’re always prepared for each lesson.
What Platforms Hire English Teachers?
If you’re wondering where to start teaching English online, here are some popular platforms that hire teachers:
1. VIPKid
VIPKid connects North American teachers with Chinese students. It’s one of the largest platforms for online English teaching, offering competitive pay. You’ll need a degree and TEFL certification to apply.
2. Cambly
Cambly is a flexible platform that allows you to chat with students from around the world. There are no degree requirements, and you can work as much or as little as you want.
3. iTalki
iTalki lets you set your rates and schedule. You can offer both formal lessons and informal language practice, making it a great option for freelancers. A certification like TEFL is recommended but not required.
4. Preply
Preply allows teachers to set their rates and design their lessons. It’s a good platform if you want more freedom over your teaching style and income.
Challenges of Teaching English Online
While teaching English online can be rewarding, it comes with its challenges. Here are some common difficulties and how to overcome them:
1. Time Zone Differences
When you teach students from around the world, you may have to work early mornings or late nights to fit their schedules. Try to set clear boundaries and manage your time effectively to avoid burnout.
2. Technical Issues
Internet connection problems, faulty microphones, or video issues can disrupt your lessons. Make sure you have reliable technology, and always have a backup plan in case something goes wrong during a lesson.
3. Student Engagement
It can be tough to keep students engaged, especially when they are learning from home. Use interactive materials, ask open-ended questions, and encourage students to participate in discussions to keep them focused.
Quick Tips for Success in Teaching English Online
- Keep Lessons Fun: Incorporate games, videos, and interesting topics to keep your students engaged.
- Stay Flexible: Be open to changing your lesson plan if something isn’t working.
- Be Patient: Learning a language can be difficult. Give your students time to process new information, and offer encouragement regularly.
- Use Visuals: Online learning can be enhanced with images, videos, and whiteboards. Visual tools help students understand difficult concepts more easily.
- Stay Professional: Dress professionally, keep your workspace clean, and maintain a positive attitude during lessons.
Conclusion
Learning how to teach English online can be a rewarding journey, whether you’re doing it full-time or part-time. The key is to have the right tools, certifications, and mindset. By getting a TEFL certification, choosing the right platform, and staying organized, you can build a successful career as an online English teacher. Remember to engage with your students, be flexible with your teaching methods, and enjoy the opportunity to make a difference in your students’ lives.
FAQs
- Do I need a degree to teach English online?
Some platforms require a degree, but many do not. Having a TEFL certification can often be enough to get started. - Can I teach English online without experience?
Yes, many platforms accept new teachers without experience, as long as you have a certification like TEFL. - What’s the best platform for new online English teachers?
Platforms like Cambly or Preply are good options for new teachers as they offer flexible hours and don’t always require a degree. - How much can I earn teaching English online?
Earnings vary depending on the platform and your experience. You can make anywhere from $10 to $30 an hour, with the potential to earn more as you gain experience. - What certification is best for teaching English online?
A 120-hour TEFL certification is widely accepted and a great option for most online teaching jobs.