1. APP-RELATED PROBLEMS

Most of the problems I’ve encountered while working at Viptalk are related to the app.

Such instances are the following:

·       App crashes due to unexpected/unknown errors cutting off the class

·       Tutoring notes (which you have to fill in for classes that last for 10 minutes and more) do not appear so you have to write the notes on the chat box instead

·       I can’t send messages due to app errors that – sometimes – clearing the cache or rebooting the app won’t solve the problem

Of course, the company releases an updated version of the app that fixes the most app-related problem.

NOTE: You cannot log-in two devices at the same time. If you attempt to do so, you will be logged out of your previously logged-in device.

2. GOODBYE PENALTIES

Now, you won’t have to worry about sudden power interruptions, poor internet connection or any unprecedented events because, in Viptalk, classes aren’t booked or done on a regular schedule.

You can now say goodbye to these penalties.

Go online when you can. Go offline if you don’t feel like working for a while.

That, I guess, is the real definition of flexible time and schedule which is the next good thing about Viptalk.

2.    APP SOFTWARE OPTION FOR PC/LAPTOP USERS IS NOT RELIABLE FOR USE

Some prefer to teach using just their smartphones while others feel more comfortable using laptops/PC. I belong to the latter.

What can laptop/PC offer you is the ability to multitask while teaching, so when I knew about this option to teach was a big relief.

However, Viptalk software installed in laptop/PC is a bit unstable that the company strongly advises not to use it. Other teachers though still use it because they claim that it works fine albeit tutoring notes are not available.

I have tried using it, too. The effort I made in the class was counted and paid off so I guess, all things considered, it’s safe to use.

But if you want to stay on the safe side, then opt to use your mobile phone.

3.    FLEXIBLE TIME AND SCHEDULE

The definition of flexible time and schedule in this industry is debatable.

However, in this case, it isn’t because working in Viptalk means you have time on your hands and you can use it in whenever you please.

3.    USING A MOBILE PHONE TO TEACH COULD BE A LITTLE CHALLENGING

I say that it’s challenging and not difficult. But, really, it all boils down to one’s preferences.

If it is your cup of tea to hold your phone on the air for at least an hour (or even sometimes more than an hour), then, by all means, continue your arm squats and probably get a good exercise out of it.

If it isn’t, then you can be more creative by perching your phone on the side of a stack of books or you can buy a cell phone holder because when you’re comfortable, you are then a more effective teacher.

4.    FAST APPLICATION PROCESS

In Viptalk, unlike other ESL Schools, it can take you as fast as 1 week or less to finish the application process.

What takes the time is the waiting in between steps so to get to teach faster, you have to accomplish the tasks for review as soon as you can which includes:

·       Video Introduction

·       Written Introduction

·       Professional-looking Photo

4.    LOW VOLUME OF STUDENTS ON REGULAR DAYS

Outside of summer classes in iShow, there are not a lot of students who get to call during the daytime on regular days.

Of course, there are still students who call either early in the morning or at night. There are some who call during the day, but they are not a lot so the chances of getting calls at day may be low.

Only the popular or tenured teachers usually get the calls at any time at any day.

5.    STUDENTS CALL ANY TIME AT ANY DAY DURING THE SUMMER SEASON IN CHINA

Students enrolled in iShow usually take English lessons all throughout the summer because they’re not busy with their academics.

They allot time calling teachers so that they could practice what they’ve learned in class by engaging in small talks and discussions about the PowerPoint slides