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Teaching English online has become a booming industry in the field of education, offering a lucrative and flexible career path for aspiring educators. In this comprehensive guide, we will explore the steps involved in becoming an online English teacher, including finding the right platform to work for, the responsibilities of the job, and the potential earnings in this exciting field.
The demand for online English language instruction has surged in recent years, making it an attractive option for individuals looking to teach English as a second language. To embark on a career as an online English teacher, there are several key steps that you can take to prepare yourself for this role:
1. Master the English language: While most employers prefer native English speakers from countries like the United States or Canada, there are opportunities for non-native English speakers as well. It’s essential to have a strong command of the language to effectively teach it to others.
2. Earn a bachelor’s degree: Many online English teaching organizations require teachers to have a bachelor’s degree in any subject. This demonstrates proficiency in written and spoken English, making you a more attractive candidate to potential employers.
3. Gain classroom experience: While traditional classroom experience is beneficial, it’s not always necessary. Employers look for candidates who have experience teaching in various settings, whether it’s as a tutor, mentor, or camp counselor. This experience demonstrates your ability to effectively teach and engage with students.
4. Obtain certification: Obtaining a Teaching English as a Foreign Language (TEFL) certificate is a valuable credential that demonstrates your competence in teaching English to non-native speakers. This certification provides you with the necessary skills and strategies to be an effective online English teacher.
5. Equip yourself with the necessary tools: To teach English online, you’ll need a stable internet connection, a webcam, a reliable computer, and a headset. It’s essential to ensure that your equipment meets the minimum requirements of the platform you’ll be teaching on to provide a seamless teaching experience.
6. Choose the right platform: There are numerous online teaching platforms available, each catering to a specific demographic in terms of compensation, time commitment, and student population. It’s important to research and compare different platforms to find the one that aligns with your teaching style and preferences.
Some of the top online English language schools for aspiring teachers include:
– VIPKid: A platform that offers online English classes to Chinese students in grades kindergarten through ninth. Teachers must be permanent residents of the United States or Canada and can reschedule classes with a 24-hour notice. Sessions are interactive and one-on-one, with pre-made lesson plans provided.
– DaDa: Servicing students in China aged four to sixteen, DaDa requires teachers to be native English speakers and available for at least two hours on specific days. Sessions are 30 minutes long and focus on a flipped classroom concept based on the Common Core State Standards.
– Qkids: A Chinese organization working with kids aged four to twelve, Qkids seeks educators from the United States or Canada. Classes are narrative game-based and engaging, with a maximum of four students per lesson. Teachers must be available for at least six hours per week and update their schedules weekly.
– iTutorGroup: This platform allows native English speakers to teach students in Taiwan of all ages. Classes are 45 minutes long for groups and 25 minutes for individuals, using materials from Oxford University Press and a Dynamic Course Generation System.
– GogoKid: Seeking native English speakers from the US and Canada, GogoKid offers individualized lessons based on the U.S. Common Core State Standards for elementary to high school students in China. Sessions are 25 minutes long, with specific session times throughout the week.
– Education First: Catering to children in China aged five to ten, Education First offers one-on-one 25-minute classes with resources and lesson plans provided all day long.
The roles and responsibilities of online English teachers can vary depending on their expertise, education level, and experience. Some common tasks include helping students improve their language skills, adapting teaching methods to meet student needs, documenting student progress, creating instructional resources, and promoting a conducive learning environment.
In terms of salary, online English teachers’ earnings vary depending on the platform and qualifications. In the United States, the average hourly wage for an English teacher is $18.96, with many platforms paying teachers by the session. Additional incentives such as bonuses for new teachers, credits for punctuality, and extra pay for peak hours can boost earnings.
To succeed as an online English teacher, educators must possess a range of skills, including the ability to meet student needs, time management, effective communication, technical proficiency, cultural awareness, and an understanding of diverse learning styles.
In conclusion, teaching English online offers a rewarding and fulfilling career opportunity for individuals looking to make a difference in the lives of students around the world. By following the steps outlined in this guide and choosing the right platform for your teaching style, you can embark on a successful journey as an online English teacher.
