Job Discussion Forums

[Somewhere Out There]

I�m running into many problems trying to get a job teaching without a degree. This is despite the fact I have experience and qualifications. Can I get some information about teaching online-

What computer equipment-setup do you need?
Can you make a decent amount of money doing it?
How do I get started?
Does anyone know who might be looking for a teacher for online?
Thanks for any help

[Glenski]

Been asked quite often here. Have you tried a search?

Main equipment would be a computer with large screen, wireless mike and earphone (or good speakers), and software to handle audio/video communications. If you plan to present things like Powerpoint or YouTube videos, you'll need to determine if the software can do that, or if you just have to tell students to download or follow a link. If you have homework to hand in, that's another issue. Can we assume you are only dealing with spoken English? (Even that can have written aspects)

There may be problems between Macs and Windows computers if you use certain programs (like Skype). Lost video, for one.

Another problem would be slow vs. high speed connections at either end.

I would say the 2 biggest problems are how to ensure someone pays, and how to attract clients abroad. Another high-ranking problem would be time-zone differences.

What exactly are your qualifications and experience? In some places (like Japan) 3 years of related teaching experience is enough to qualify you for a work visa without a degree.

[johnslat]

Dear Glenski,

"There may be problems between Macs and Windows computers if you use certain programs (like Skype). Lost video, for one."

Really? I've been using Skype to tutor students in Slovenia for months now.
I have an iMac; they all have PCs - we haven't had any problems so far.

I'd also suggest checking out mindmeister

http://www.mindmeister.com/

and Google Wave

http://wave.google.com/help/wave/about.html

They're both very helpful for online tutoring.

Regards,
John

[Glenski]

Yes, really, john. At least that's the only factor I have been able to determine in a few situations (not just my own computer, either). Shrug. Just the other day, I was trying to get a Skype video going with someone here in the same country, different city. He has a Mac, I have a Windows PC, but Macs are not allowed to have as high (current) a level of Skype as Windows computers, so we figured that was the only thing holding us back.

I know of a couple of other similar examples of Mac vs. Windows issues, and they extend beyond this country's borders. Two people in different countries, for example.

[TwinCentre]

There were at least two ads for teachers wanted for online jobs on this site in the last week or so. Take a look.

I have been following the live online teaching market for sometime now and have tried it myself. It seems that Skype is being out-moded in favour of more sophisticated teaching and conferencing platforms.

One of the leading 'learn by Skype' schools appears to have recently gone off-line.

Most of the online jobs tend to be teaching South Korean students, that seems to be the place where live online learning has taken off.

[Somewhere Out There]

I really appreciate all the information. I am especially surprised to hear about Japan. It is frustrating for me to be so restricted due to the lack of degree when I have: a 3-year college diploma, almost 2 years teaching experience in China, Canada and Africa, 4 TESOLs and I'm a qualified nurse so could easily teach those in the medical field. Can you give me any contacts in Japan or other information? I am older-52 so sometimes also run into age restrictions.
Thanks

[johnslat]

Dear TwinCentre,

"I have been following the live online teaching market for sometime now and have tried it myself. It seems that Skype is being out-moded in favour of more sophisticated teaching and conferencing platforms."

Ah, but as a "freelancer," what I like about Skype is that it's FREE.

Regards,
John

[Stephen Jones]

[TwinCentre]