Every day, more teachers leave the classroom, and they are looking for different ways to stay in education and still make a difference using their skills, talents, passion and knowledge. Becoming an online teacher is a big step, one that most educators have never even considered. However, online teaching is becoming an option for many. Teaching English online to students who live in other countries is starting to become a very attractive possibility for many educators. Benefits include: working from home, teaching different levels, and learning about a new culture. Teaching English online is gaining popularity fast among ESL teachers and students around the world, and this new, modern way of teaching has vast advantages for both parties.

Over at 51Talk, we asked a group of teachers to share their five top tips for teaching ESL online.

Personalize the class: Try to get to know your student by asking relatable, but appropriate questions. Some examples: family, likes, holidays, books, food, sports, school, friends, reading, games, hopes for the future, and seasons. Also, determine the grade level of each student and prepare accordingly.

Use humor: When teaching English online, humor can be a great lifesaver. It can help you create a relaxed mood and your student will then sense you as another human being. So, have fun together!

Ask different types of questions: Ask hypothetical questions because they are fun, different, engaging and require students to think. Hypothetical questions and conversations also boost student confidence.

Make it light and mix up the format to keep their attention: Put on a pair of funny glasses and a hat, or you can act silly when you open the screen to get their attention. Mix up the format with engaging visuals, different activities, songs, quizzes, real-life situations, hypothetical questions and storytelling.

How to get and maintain the attention of older students: Ask your students about their favorite books, movies, and singers. It only takes a few minutes to share that moment, and it will keep your students interested, especially if they drift. Reengage your students every 5 minutes with something they like.

Thinking about Teaching ESL Online: What are the 3 questions you should answer first? How do you know you will do well in teaching ESL? Lynn Faith gives her thoughts on 3 questions that will provide some answers to “why teach ESL online.” If interested in teaching online, 51Talk is a great company to work for!

Sign up for an interview here:

http://www.51talk.com/ph/landing_usa.php?id=18

About 51Talk

51Talk is the largest online English education platform in China. In June 2016, it became a publicly listed company on the New York Stock Exchange (COE). 51Talk’s mission is to make quality education accessible and affordable, and to enable students to talk to the world.