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Finding the best online English teaching resources is imperative for individuals looking to venture into this field. Online English language instruction has opened up a plethora of opportunities for those seeking to share their knowledge and expertise with students from around the world. The demand for English teachers online is on the rise, making it a lucrative and rewarding career choice for many.
To become an online English teacher, there are a few steps you need to follow:
1. Make English your second language: Fluency in English is essential for online English teachers. While most employers prefer native English speakers from the United States or Canada, there are opportunities available for non-native English speakers as well.
2. Obtain a bachelor’s degree: A four-year degree is typically required by online English teaching organizations. Having a degree in any subject demonstrates proficiency in written and spoken English.
3. Gain relevant classroom experience: While traditional classroom experience is beneficial, it is not always mandatory. However, many employers look for candidates with prior teaching experience, whether it be as a tutor, mentor, or summer camp counselor.
4. Earn your certification: Obtaining a Teaching English as a Foreign Language (TEFL) certificate is highly recommended. It showcases your proficiency in teaching English to speakers of other languages and equips you with effective teaching strategies.
5. Ensure you have the necessary tools: A reliable internet connection, a camera, a functional computer, and a headset are essential for online instruction. Before starting to teach, check the software’s minimum requirements to ensure you have the right setup.
6. Choose the platform that aligns with your teaching style: There are numerous online teaching platforms, each catering to a specific demographic in terms of compensation rates, time commitments, and the number of countries served. Research your options to find the platform that best suits your preferences and availability.
If you are interested in teaching English online, consider exploring some of the top platforms available:
VIPKid: This platform offers online English classes to Chinese students in grades kindergarten through ninth. Classes are one-on-one and last 25 minutes each. Instructors must be residents of the United States or Canada.
DaDa: DaDa serves students in China aged four to sixteen and offers 30-minute one-on-one sessions. Teachers can be located anywhere globally but must be native English speakers.
Qkids: Qkids partners with children aged four to twelve in China and uses a narrative game-based curriculum for engaging lessons. Instructors are expected to be available for at least six hours weekly.
iTutorGroup: This platform connects native English speakers with students in Taiwan for group and individual classes. Classes are 45 minutes long for groups and 25 minutes for individuals.
GogoKid: GogoKid seeks native English speakers from the US and Canada to teach elementary to high school students in China. Lessons are based on US Common Core State Standards.
Education First: This platform offers one-on-one classes to children in China aged five to ten. Lessons are 25 minutes long and focus on reading, writing, and speaking.
As an online English teacher, your responsibilities may include:
– Providing instruction to help students improve their language skills
– Adapting teaching methods based on student needs
– Documenting student progress
– Creating instructional resources
– Following the provided curriculum and lesson plans
– Fostering group dynamics to enhance learning
– Staying updated on learning software and tools
The salary of an online English teacher varies based on the platform and qualifications. In the United States, the average hourly wage for an English teacher is $18.96. Many online platforms pay teachers by the session and offer bonuses for new teachers, incentives for promptness, and additional pay for peak hours.
To excel as an online English teacher, you need to possess a range of skills, including:
– Ability to meet student needs
– Effective time management skills
– Strong communication skills
– Proficiency in technology
– Cultural awareness
– Understanding of various learning styles
Teaching English online can be a fulfilling and financially rewarding career path. By following the steps outlined above and utilizing the top online English teaching platforms, you can embark on a successful journey as an online English teacher.
