The challenges of teaching English online are completely different compared to face-to-face lessons. Although the foundations of the lessons are the same, the transition to online lessons could be difficult for some teachers. To prepare first-time online English teachers, here are the most common challenges of teaching English online and the ways to overcome them.  

Experiencing technical difficulties

For online English teachers, experiencing issues with the Internet connection or their computer or laptop is their biggest challenge and greatest fear. For first-time online teachers, this is a big hurdle since they are still getting familiar with using the platform and teaching in an online setup.

To avoid any technical issues, make sure that you have the minimum required specifications for all your computer equipment and you have studied how to use the platform. Also, always check your computer equipment before every lesson to see if there are any issues you need to address immediately. Lastly, invest in a backup power and Internet source, so you don’t miss a lesson in case of power interruptions.

Waiting for student bookings

For some teachers, it takes time before students book their lessons and fill up their schedules. To help you increase your booking rate, remember to show professionalism at all times. This means practicing punctuality, ensuring your equipment functions well, cleaning your teaching space, and wearing proper teaching attire. Don’t forget to check out these tips from 51Talk to increase your booking rate further. Follow these tips, and you will have regular bookings and new students in no time!

Simplifying instructions

Sometimes, first-time English teachers tend to forget that they are speaking with young learners who have little to no knowledge of the English language. Because of this, they unconsciously use seemingly simple words that are actually difficult for the students to understand.

For example, when giving instructions, some teachers may say, “Let’s proceed to the next page” or “Let’s continue to the next page.” These are simple English words for adults, but most students, especially beginners or kids, will not understand this. Instead, use simple words when giving instructions, such as “Let’s go to the next page.” If your words are simple, they will be clear to your students.

Getting your student’s interest and attention

Whether it’s in the classroom or online, holding a student’s attention is one of the most common online teaching challenges for teachers. However, when it comes to online lessons, students have more distractions within their environment than inside a classroom. Moreover, online English teachers have no control over their environment, making it challenging to maintain their attention.

To keep students interested and focused, make sure to involve students as much as possible. Moreover, make the lessons more lively to pique the student’s curiosity. Lastly, use teaching aids such as puppets, toys, and realia to add more fun to your lessons.

Balancing life and teaching

Finally, one of the most common challenges that first-time online English teachers experience is managing their time and stamina for household chores and teaching. This can be a challenge, especially for teachers who have no experience in remote teaching.  

Teachers can overcome this challenge by scheduling their tasks according to their priorities. Thankfully, 51Talk offers flexible teaching hours, allowing teachers to teach in their own time. Because of this, most 51Talk teachers can balance their time for their family, their students, and themselves.

You can overcome these challenges

The great thing about these challenges is that they can be resolved with time and effort. Use the insights and tips above to overcome the challenges of teaching online. Once you do, teaching online will become easier and more enjoyable for you!

If you’re ready to teach English online, 51Talk, the leading online English education platform, offers the opportunity to teach and earn in the comfort of your home. Sign up with 51Talk today, and become a successful online English teacher tomorrow!