What it’s really like to teach English online

by Jillian Zavitz

Whenever I tell people that my job is “Teaching English Online” – they look at me like I am some kind of crazy robot from the future.  Now, this may have to do with the fact that I live in a small South American town, and things like this are just catching on (Facebook has just started booming down here…to give you an idea of how “behind” we are).  Or the fact that Teaching English online really is a new concept that is quickly becoming the ideal choice for not only individual training but professional and corporate training as well.   I think if everyone knew truly how great it actually is to teach online, no one would enter a traditional classroom again.

Now, Teaching online – although done from home – is not a “pyjama party.”  It is a REAL job, with REAL responsibilities and commitments.  We may only be connected through a wire and machine, but it is no less real than if you were standing in front of your students and teaching them.  You need to be professional, and teach in an appropriate atmosphere that allows for concentration and clear communication.

Sometimes its hard to have such an “unpredictable” schedule – or being “available” 24h/day (depending on the time zone) – but these minor details are definitely made up with the fact that there is no wasted time commuting to and from work – I take a few steps into my office, close the door and start my day.

Another great advantage is the flexibility in lesson material.  Teaching online means that you have the internet at your fingertips!  Incorporating media, checking understanding, and finding interesting up to date things to discuss, makes teaching interesting for both the student and the teacher.  I love talking about current events, thoughts and opinions on different subjects, history and opinions.  It usually makes for a really interesting class.

Sharing cultures and learning about one another is also a major plus when teaching online.  I have been lucky enough to teach students from over 20 different countries, speaking a variety of languages.  I take advantage of these situations and learn about the different cultures, and ways of life.  I’m not sure if I’ll ever be able to travel the world – but Teaching Online is probably the next best thing.

When you work with a student over a period of time – you get to know one another – and essentially develop a strong student – teacher friendship.  Students are usually a lot more willing to open up and discuss their lives with you over VoIP than they would with a traditional classroom English teacher.  This really helps with their learning and improvement – feeling comfortable to really discuss anything and everything that comes to mind.

I feel really fortunate to have stumbled upon TalktoCanada.com’s website one rainy afternoon – and have been astounded by the amount of professional growth that both TTC and myself have experienced this past year.  I am optimistic for the future – and hope to never experience the 9-5 hours ever again.