With education moving online in most of the developed world, online tutoring is once again becoming a hot topic. The ability to work from home and pass the knowledge onto others is an attractive concept for many.
There are several factors you need to account for before you dive into this line of work. If you want to become an online tutor, you should follow our tips.
The Pros of Online Tutoring
Online tutoring has allowed many skilled and experienced professionals to earn money from home.
Whether it’s niche classes regarding a very narrow subject or teaching English to students around the world, online tutoring is a proven way of making money.
All you need is a decent computer, access to fast and reliable internet, and a headset.
That being said, computer setups used for tutoring can be much more complex than that. In many cases, offering the best audio and video quality in your part of the market can be a decisive factor in getting more work.
Good audio could mean spending $200 or more on a quality condenser mic and probably more than that on a good webcam.
The Unspoken Costs of Online Tutoring
Investing in equipment isn’t the end of the costs involved in teaching people online.
Spending hours upon hours in front of a computer means that you’re using up more electricity than usual.
The table by Compare The Market below shows just how much you can expect to spend on electricity in different countries.
Despite modern computers featuring low overall thermal design power (TDP), or the amount of power they use per hour, chances are that you’ll notice the difference in your power bill.
While this expenditure isn’t a decisive factor, it’s something to think about if you plan on doing any serious online tutoring.
Equipment costs and ongoing expenses are the material issues you’ll face when starting. Software and other criteria services may also be a requirement of the job.
There are other, more stressful problems to account for as well.
Teaching remotely works well if you’re working with focused and attentive students.
Otherwise, it can be a chore.
Teaching also means dealing with parents of students, who may or may not have their own expectations of you.
It’s not uncommon to find yourself under fire from parents who aren’t satisfied with your work.
Every job has its pros and cons. There are unexpected hurdles to jump over in any industry.
The key to success is being ready to face whatever challenge comes your way.
Preparing Your Own Study Guides
Online tutors, especially ones that teach niche subjects, often have to create their own study guides for their students.
Of course, this all depends on the subject you teach, but having a carefully designed and planned study material will ensure better results.
Some students learn best through reading, while others internalise new knowledge through conversation.
By offering your own, unique study materials, you’ll be maximising your chances of becoming a leading authority in your line of work.
Besides, your students will have the documentation necessary to refresh their knowledge once you’re finished tutoring them.
It’s a way of ensuring that you’ve successfully transferred your knowledge to someone else and become an online tutor. Good luck!
Photo: Shutterstock
Online Education Make Easy With These Tips
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