There is no doubt that online learning is booming. There is a huge demand for online English teachers and, because of this, there are more online English teachers than you can shake a stick at. So how can you stand out from the crowd?
Check your set up
Make sure you have everything you need to teach English online easily. This means a good internet connection (with a back-up power system, if necessary), quality equipment, a light, quiet office space, and appropriate resources and materials.
Be prepared
Teaching English online is similar to teaching face-to-face, but there are differences. You need to be aware of the the best teaching methods and resources to use in the online classroom. Even if you have face-to-face teaching experience, familiarise yourself with the online platform before you start teaching.
Work smart, not hard
As in all aspects of teaching English as a foreign language, no matter which aspects of English you are teaching, it is certain to have been taught before. There is no need to create your teaching materials for online English teaching from scratch. Find resources online that you can use for your lessons. This can be presentations, activity ideas, even lesson plans. This will save you time and energy.
Check your time zone
As an online English teacher, you could be teaching students from all over the world. As a digital nomad, you could be living anywhere in the world. Always be aware of the time zone you are in as compared to the time zones of your students. You don’t want to be early for your lessons – and you definitely don’t want to be late!
Look after yourself
Teaching English can be draining, both physically and mentally. This can be especially true if you are an online English teacher, because you can be sitting in front of your laptop for a number of hours every day. Take time to step away from your screen (and teaching) from time to time and spend some time outdoors. Eat healthily and be sure to exercise regularly.
Being an online English teacher can be highly rewarding. Because there are so many online English teachers you need to make sure you stand out from the crowd to be a successful online English teacher.
Read more: Top Tips To Be A Successful Online English Teacher