How to Start Online English Lessons? Effective Learning Tips and Common Questions Answered

Online English lessons, which can easily be taken on your smartphone, offer many advantages over brick and mortar language schools. However, they also come with unique aspects that might raise questions and concerns, such as: How do I choose a tutor? Are there materials available? What if I feel nervous speaking to a foreigner in English for the first time?

In this article, we'll address these common concerns and answer all your questions about online English lessons!

I'm a Beginner and Feeling Nervous... Can I Start if I’m Not Confident in Listening or Speaking?

In non-English speaking countries, it's often difficult to find opportunities to practice English conversation. Many people worry about not being able to carry on a conversation.

However, online English lessons are particularly effective for beginners. Why? Because by actually engaging in conversation, you'll quickly identify whether the problem lies in your speaking (not being able to express yourself) or listening (not understanding what the other person is saying). This allows you to pinpoint your weaknesses and focus on improving them. Rather than "learning before using," online lessons let you "learn while using," making it a shortcut to improving your English skills.

But Isn’t It Embarrassing to Speak into a Smartphone?

At first, it might feel a bit awkward to speak English to a smartphone or camera, especially if you're not used to speaking in English. You might even feel nervous when talking to your tutor, staring at the screen.

However, online English lessons do not necessarily require you to use the camera. For example, RareLingo allows you to have lessons with the camera off. If you're concerned about eye contact while taking lessons outdoors or in public, turning off the camera and speaking as if you’re on a phone call can help you feel more comfortable. Give it a try!

How Do I Choose a Tutor?

Choosing the right tutor can be overwhelming. With so many tutors available, how do you decide who to choose? To make the most of your lessons, it's important to check the tutor’s profile, including their introduction, hobbies, profession, and rating. Choose a tutor that aligns with your goals and learning objectives.

At RareLingo, you can filter tutors by rating, hobbies, profession, and age. For example, if you want to discuss IT topics, you can search for tutors who specialize in "Computer" and have conversations about technology. This way, you can choose a tutor that best suits your needs and interests.

Can Filipinos Really Speak English?

You may wonder, "Can people from the Philippines speak English? Don’t they have an accent?" The truth is, English is widely spoken in the Philippines. In schools and workplaces, all lessons and communication are typically in English, which means the level of English proficiency is very high.

Filipino tutors are known for their cheerful personalities and hospitality. If you’re nervous about speaking English for the first time, you’ll likely feel relaxed and at ease during your lessons with them.

By addressing these common questions and concerns, we hope you feel more confident about starting your online English lessons. Whether you're a complete beginner or just looking to improve your skills, online English lessons offer a convenient and effective way to practice, learn, and grow in your language journey.