Online Tutoring Jobs

Online tutoring is one facet of teaching that is becoming more and more popular. Utilizing employees who work from home is becoming more commonplace among mainstream companies.

The saying goes that there is more than one way to skin a cat and similarly, there is more than one way to become an online tutor. However, one of the best ways to go about becoming an online tutor is to research online tutoring companies who are hiring through the Internet. Because online tutoring companies market strongly to schools, churches and other educational programs, this is the fastest and most efficient way for tutors to connect with students. These companies provide Software, tools and lesson plan materials to tutors in addition to helping tutors find students. As a result, these companies represent the best way to plug into a large pool of students whether they’re taking distance learning classes or traditional. Doing this yourself can work for well established teachers or tutors but it will still require software and forums that online tutoring companies provide free of charge to member-tutors.

Researching online tutoring companies is essential. Many of the tutoring companies have different requirements (teaching certificates, experience requirements, specific references or background checks), so finding a company where you are most likely to be hired is a good place to begin. Also research carefully to be sure the online tutoring company you are interested in joining is well established. Most companies charge a fee for connecting with their pool of students and for gaining access to online teaching materials. Be sure than any money you put towards an online tutoring company is legitimate and that the company will provide you with fair pay, access to students, good materials and also hires only qualified individuals.

Most online tutoring companies require that a teacher or tutor has experience teaching, or a teaching certificate in the subject they wish to tutor. Again, each company is different but a strong command of your teaching skills in the area you want to teach, a good work history, teaching experience and solid references are almost always required.

Hiring

The hiring process usually involves an online query or submission. Your name, address and basic information are taken down through the online tutoring company. A test based on the level you want to teach is always required at some point in the hiring process and phone consultations as well as interviews will be conducted. Teachers who will be hired are instructed on how the tutoring company’s online materials and forums work as well as in the specific way they will be communicating with students in addition to what is required of them if they want to be a tutor.

These jobs are taken very seriously by online tutoring companies as well as by parents who hire them, so professionalism within the company and among the teachers is essential. Once hired, teachers will be put in contact with students as well as allowed to add or market for students themselves. Teachers will usually inform companies of the time they have available to teach and schedules are adjusted as such. However, not just anyone can sign up to become and online tutor.

Qualifications

While each company’s qualifications will be different, experience is almost always a must. Additionally, qualifications change based on the subject tutors are teaching as well as the grade level they wish to tutor. It is best to look up each individual company’s qualifications to see if your tutoring skills are sufficient. Most companies require any of the following:

– Knowledge of the subject

– Teaching or tutoring experience

– IT and Internet skills

– A relevant degree in the subject you will be tutoring

– Relevant qualifications above the level you wish to tutor

– A diploma in Teaching

– Certificate or Postgraduate Certificate in Education

– NVQ levels 3 or higher in Learning and Development

– Other special certificates for non-teachers who are qualified to tutor

Most companies will provide you with a clear list of qualifications as well as learning centers where you can gain certification to work within their company. Many colleges and universities provide online courses to become a certified tutor. Check with the qualifications of the company you want to work for and then look for programs in your area.