Below are some basic manners an online teacher must practice:
First impressions are important! Punctuality should be practiced during the whole lesson.
Teachers are required to join the classroom at least 3 minutes before the schedule. They should check all their equipment and upload the materials in advance before starting the class.
If it’s the first time the teacher and student are meeting each other, they should naturally exchange introductions. By doing this, the student can become comfortable and ready to learn. If the student requested to skip the introduction, just start the lesson naturally without it.
Speak slowly and enunciate words properly to help the student understand.
Rephrase and simplify sentences if they are having a difficult time with vocabulary or sentence structure.
There are times when a student would like to talk about a certain topic and other times when a student would let the teacher decide. It is essential to know what the student would like to do in class. Simply ask them what topic they wish to discuss, what kind of class they want, or what they want to learn more about. If the student is hesitant, recommend some topics that will interest them and are suitable for their English level.
From time to time, ask the student if they have any questions.
Answer them clearly and effectively if there are words, phrases, or idioms that they may not understand.
The teacher can have online references as long as they still explain it with their own words.
Establish a friendly space of learning when having a class so students can be eager to learn. Be encouraging when correcting and let them know that making mistakes is normal. Be mindful not to over-correct or use harsh language.
Use examples that can encourage the students. Try to avoid sensitive topics to avoid misunderstandings.
When the student asks about certain words or sentences, make sure to type it in the chat box for their reference.Send helpful pictures and materials as well to diversify the teaching strategies.
Students who enjoy the company of their teachers will be more open to speaking English and will be more likely to book lessons again.
Try to build a comfortable environment in your classes; this is to ensure that the students will be relaxed in learning and speaking with you. The best teachers help their student by being like a friend to them.
Practice courtesy and professionalism all the time.
Teachers are not required to use honorifics but, in some cases, students may ask teachers to do so in their requests.
Build a student’s self-confidence by helping them develop their strengths, complimenting their improvements, and encouraging them to use English in their everyday life so they can improve further day by day.
Veteran teachers don’t talk too much during a lesson. They just support and encourage the student to speak and express themselves more. One common mistake is explaining too much without giving much consideration to the student. If a teacher speaks too much, the student will lose their interest in the class.
Avoid ending the lesson abruptly once class time is up. Be mindful of the time wrap up the lesson and say goodbye to your student properly. Students should always be the one to leave the classroom first; guide them in doing this.
