Teaching English as a second or foreign language is a great challenge for anyone. Whatever one’s background or experience level is, one will encounter constant hurdles when Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages (TESOL).
Like other subjects, one will find every student learning differently. Additionally, based on the primary language of every student, one will face fresh challenges that are unique to that language. But with some knowledge and effort, one can gain skills to teach English to foreigners.
Nowadays, TESOL helps to teach English to students in an online mode. After gaining TESOL certification, one can begin delivering English classes to online students. Following are some tips for delivering TESOL online courses:
Know Students Well Enough
As a TESOL teacher, one must focus on building a sound relationship with online students. One must attempt to get to know them to a certain degree. In this way, one can make lessons customised as per the need of the individual student. This way, the latter will be more engaged, feel more appreciated and be ready to trust one when one tries to construct a relationship with them.
Plan Online Classes
Simply because one is teaching online does not imply that one can avoid making lesson plans. One must do reviewing of lesson plans and make sure that one has covered all relevant angles to lessons. During the process of review, gather all the supplies one will need as well. Undertaking such steps will aid in one being more prepared in the long run, without being in a frenzy just before the lesson begins.
Preparation And Mastering Of Technology
Online teaching, of course, will involve the use of modern technology. It is critical to understand the utilisation of all software, one’s personal technical equipment, and any extra equipment which is needed. In case one needs help in understanding anything, one must not be shy to reach out to a technically aware person. Ensure that one has the needed resources and basic knowledge of what to do when things don’t go the right way. This will help one look more professional. One can learn about the latest technology through TESOL certification.
Adequate Environment To Work
One must arrange a proper place for the classroom during the delivery of online lessons. Such a space must be devoid of the distractions of noise and interference. This ensures that classes run smoothly sans any interruption. One must feel sufficiently comfortable completing any needed planning or paperwork in the virtual classroom. Create a space where one will enjoy delivering classes and be attractive to one’s students.
Stimulate Discussions And Innovate
To learn English, one must do more than let students memorize or conduct vocabulary drills. This is true of both typical in-person classes and online classes. Teachers must use innovative techniques like enabling discussions which help students learn the ropes of speaking and listening to English conversations. Ensure that the online class is rich in discussions. This will aid one in judging whether students are following study material and the nature of their levels of comprehension.
Regular Communication
The main secret to the success of a TESOL teacher is effective communication. It is vital to do regular communication with students in the first instance. One must ensure that all doubts are cleared, all questions answered, and all grades are given quickly. One must also be sure to stay in touch with guardians or parents of students. This will enable the building of a relationship of trust with them and can keep everyone in the loop about the progress of students and the remaining goals to be attained.
Solicit Feedback
One must not be frightened about soliciting feedback on one’s classes. It is a great matter to gain constructive criticism, and when advice is taken, it can make one a superior teacher. One must also seek mentors like experienced online teachers for listening to a mock lesson or even one’s version of an authentic lesson. Request ratings from students as well as their families.
Reflect On And Judge One’s Teaching
These are other ways to solicit feedback. Make use of any constructive criticism that one encounters for one’s own benefit. Make use of negative information one has been given to implement changes, but at the same time, one’s spirit must be crushed under its weight. Make use of any positive feedback to continue and commit to what one is doing. At the same time, one must not be too proud and boastful about what a great teacher one is. One must constantly judge oneself so that one continues to grow and develop.
Join Online Communities
English teaching is a challenging career. No one knows better than those who are already engaged in the field. Take care to be in touch with an online community of online English teachers who can provide advice, support, and even humour. Search in online forums and social media about a suitable community.
In sum, these are some valuable tips for delivering TESOL online courses. Armed with these, one can handle a career in TESOL effectively and efficiently.
