What do you think of when you hear the word Thailand? You might think of beautiful beaches, or maybe you’re thinking about the wild nightlife in Thailand’s major cities. It probably won’t take long to realize that Thailand is where people come to relax and enjoy themselves. Unfortunately, relaxation may be hard to come by if you are trying to make ends meet working at a job that doesn’t make use of your education and skill set.
What Is an Ajarn?
Ajarn’ is a Thai term meaning ‘teacher’, and it’s also often used to describe non-native English teachers working in Thailand. These positions generally require English fluency but may also demand that applicants hold a bachelor’s degree from an accredited university. The role of an Ajarn can vary greatly depending on their employer.
Minimum Requirements for Becoming an Online Teacher
Online tutoring has become a great source of income for both Thai natives and foreign expatriates. With an internet connection, you can reach students all over Southeast Asia; however, it’s not easy to get an Ajarn job from abroad.
Schools will often ask that you are a native speaker and possess certain qualifications, such as a master’s degree in education. Luckily, there are quite a few online schools that seek out qualified teachers regardless of their nationality or home country.
What About My English?
The Thai job market is highly competitive, and employers are picky, so it’s a good idea to work on improving your English skills before you arrive. If you do get here, however, don’t be afraid to ask for help. From free tutoring opportunities at some universities and language centers to volunteer English teachers and native-speaking friends, there are plenty of people who would be happy to lend a hand. The added bonus?
How Much Money Can I Make with Online Teaching?
The truth is, you can do pretty well if you’re a skilled, enthusiastic teacher—even if English isn’t your native language. But a good chunk of that potential income is going to be eaten up by student fees and educational materials. That said, here’s what you could potentially make working online as a non-native speaker…
Final Thoughts on Teaching Online as a Non-Native Speaker in Thailand
The primary reason I see for teaching online as a non-native speaker is an easy transition for teachers to Thailand. Because you are teaching at home and not somewhere else, you can pack your things and go! If you have saved some money or if friends or family will host you, then leave today! It does not matter if English is your first language – there are so many Ajarn jobs out there for all sorts of experience levels.
How Do I Get Started Teaching Online?
It’s a common question for those considering teaching English online or in another country. The simple answer is, it depends. It depends on your qualifications, what country you want to work in and how long you wish to teach. Do I have to be a native speaker? How long can I stay if I don’t have experience? Can my Thai ability affect my chances of getting a job? These are just some of many questions that come up when thinking about teaching English abroad.
