Thinking of using Italki but not sure how to find a good teacher on Italki? Don’t worry, I got your back!
Finding the right Italki teacher is crucial to achieving your language learning goals. With so many options available, it can be challenging to know where to start.
It may take some time, but it’s worth the effort to find someone who matches your learning style and preferences.
As I told you in my Italki review, I have been using this platform since 2019 and I can say I have been lucky enough to meet great teachers there.
In this article I am going to share with you what criteria I take into account as a language learner on platforms like Italki.
Ready? Let’s go!
Use filters available on Italki
Italki offers a range of filters that can help you narrow down your search for the perfect teacher. These filters allow you to search for teachers based on factors such as their country of origin, the languages they speak, and the type of lessons they offer.
Using these filters can save you time and help you find teachers who meet your specific needs.
For example, using the country and language filters can help you find a teacher who is a native speaker of the language you’re learning.
This can be interesting if you are into a specific accent or if you are learning the language because you are going to move out to a country where it is spoken.
Opting for a teacher from your desired location will help you learn the authentic accent, intonation, and pronunciation, as well as the slang used in that area.
It can also provide valuable insights into customs, traditions, and social norms from specific regions. This will help you understand the do’s and don’ts in the country or city, avoiding cultural misunderstandings.
You can also use these filters to find teachers who speak a language you’re comfortable with, making it easier to communicate during the lesson.
You can also filter by the type of lesson filter, which comes very handy when you would like to find a teacher who specializes in the area you want to improve.
For example, if you’re preparing for an exam, you may want to look for a teacher who has experience helping students pass that exam.
Read teacher profiles carefully
Once you find a teacher who catches your attention, it’s essential to read their profile and watch their video carefully.
This can give you an idea of their teaching style, their qualifications, and their experience. You can also see if they offer any specific services, such as conversation practice or exam preparation.
Check ratings and reviews
Another important factor to consider is the teacher’s ratings and reviews. Italki allows students to rate and review their teachers after lessons, giving you valuable insights into their teaching style, communication skills, and overall performance.
Be sure to read through these reviews carefully and look for patterns in the feedback.
Book trial lessons
Booking a trial lesson is an excellent way to get to know a potential teacher and see if they’re a good fit for you.
During the trial lesson, you can assess their teaching style, ask questions, and see how they tailor their lessons to your needs.
Many teachers offer discounted trial lessons, so it’s a low-risk way to try out different teachers before committing to a regular schedule.
Ask questions
Before booking a lesson, don’t be afraid to ask the teacher any questions you may have. This can include questions about their teaching approach, their availability, or their experience working with students at your level.
A good teacher will be happy to answer your questions and provide you with the information you need to make an informed decision.
Keep your learning goals in mind
When searching for an Italki teacher, it’s important to consider your learning goals.
Do you want to improve your speaking skills, prepare for an exam, or focus on grammar? Be sure to look for a teacher who specializes in the area you want to improve and has experience working with students at your level.
Find someone you share interests with
Last but not least, I do believe it is also important to study with a teacher who shares your interests and can make the learning experience more enjoyable and engaging.
For example, if you’re interested in music, you may want to look for a teacher who incorporates music into their lessons. Or, if you’re interested in food, you may want to find a teacher who includes food-related vocabulary and cultural references while teaching.
By finding a teacher who shares your interests, you can make the learning experience more personalized and relevant to your life. It can also help you stay motivated and engaged in the learning process, making it more likely that you’ll stick with it over the long term.
For example, as a language student myself, I have tried lessons with different teachers from Italki and I can say that the ones I enjoyed most and made me more willing to keep practicing were the ones with whom I had a lot of things in common. When I finished my lessons I had the feeling I could have talked for hours. Isn’t that amazing?
That’s all! I hope you find these 7 tips on how to find a good teacher on Italki useful.
Remember that finding the perfect Italki teacher takes time and effort, but it’s well worth it to ensure you get the most out of your language learning experience.
