Investigating ESL Teachers’ Experience in Teaching Online Classes

The rapid transformation of traditional classrooms to online platforms during the COVID-19 pandemic has presented numerous challenges for educators, particularly those teaching English as a Second Language. This research aims to explore the challenges faced by ESL teachers in adapting to and managing online teaching, as well as the strategies they employ to navigate this new digital landscape. Using a qualitative approach, semi-structured interviews were conducted with three ESL teachers to gather valuable insights into their experiences. Thematic analysis was applied to identify and categorize the challenges encountered by these educators during the implementation of online teaching. Additionally, the study investigated the strategies employed by teachers to overcome these obstacles and enhance the effectiveness of their online instruction. The findings reveal six major challenges faced by ESL teachers, including technical issues, time management, limited student access to technology, monitoring and assessment difficulties, students’ issues, and teachers’ competency issues. To address these challenges, teachers utilized three main strategies: self-empowerment through self-learning and upskilling in technology, effective monitoring and assessment techniques, and enhancing online learning through interactive engagement. The insights garnered from this study can assist educational institutions, policymakers, and educators in identifying areas that require support and improvement for more effective and efficient online teaching practices. Ultimately, the study emphasizes the importance of continuous professional development for ESL teachers to successfully navigate the complexities of online teaching and meet the diverse needs of their students in the digital age.