Update: Got my 120 hour TEFL (Distinction)! Now transitioning to full time online teaching for the next 3 / 4 years during uni. Need some final setup and platform advice.
Hi everyone,
You might remember my previous posts where I was asking about the basic equipment checklist and whether certificates actually make a difference. Well, I took the advice, put in the work, and just finished my 120-hour TEFL from Teacher Record with a Distinction grade!
I’m 21, and my plan now is to make online teaching my main job for the next 3 to 4 years to support myself while I study Graphic Design and Multimedia at university.
I am currently setting up my workspace. Based on my previous questions and a recent technical fail I had (I tried applying to Engoo but their direct website recorder completely messed up my video sync and pixelated the quality, leading to a rejection), I’ve decided to upgrade my approach. I’ll be recording my introduction video locally on my phone to ensure perfect audio / video sync, and I'm setting up a 32-inch screen to easily handle multitasking, lesson materials, and student management.
Since I want to hit the ground running, I have a few final, specific questions:
- The Background Dilemma: In my last post, I asked about a clean/white background. Engoo rejected me strictly because it wasn't a "plain white wall." Is this rigid rule common on platforms like Preply, iTalki, or Teacher Record, or is a generally clean, tidy room background acceptable?
- Audio/Headset: I ended up getting a proper headset with a mic instead of relying on laptop audio. For platforms catering to kids (4-16), do they care if the headset looks bulky, or is clear audio the only thing that matters?
- Teacher Record vs. Marketplaces: Now that I have a certificate from Teacher Recrod, how does their internal job board actually perform? Should I rely on their automatic matching system, or am I better off setting up profiles on Preply and iTalki simultaneously to secure a steady income flow?
- Balancing Full Time Hours with Uni: Since I need this to be my main job for the next few years, what is the most efficient way to structure my hours? Should I lock into fixed schedule Asian platforms, or go full freelance on marketplaces?
I really appreciate all the help this community gave me when I was just starting out. Now that I have the credentials, I want to build a bulletproof setup.
Thanks in advance for the honest input!