Hey there, fellow educators! This is something I’m asked about a lot. And as someone who’s been dipping their toes into online teaching since 2011 and moved into it permanently in 2014, I’ve learned a thing or two about what equipment is needed for online teaching and tutoring to make it work. So let’s dive in!

First on my list is Microsoft OneNote 

This virtual file cabinet is a lifesaver for me. When I’m teaching with my school of record, I use it to keep all my important documents and spreadsheets in one place. I can even include personal info about my students that I use during our calls. And when I’m tutoring, I organize it by subject and student, and even use it as a virtual whiteboard. You can continue to stroll down as you use it, so each session is captured on one page, no matter how many problems we work on. Trust me, this tool is a game-changer.

Next up, a writing pad

Trying to write with a mouse in a virtual space is a nightmare, for both my students and me. That’s why I highly recommend investing in a writing pad with a stylus. I started with a Wacom tablet, tablet but found it too limiting in writing space. Now, I love my Deco 01 V2 XP-Pen. It’s perfect for art and drawing, too.

Don’t forget about a comfy headset! 

Using earbuds for an extended period of time is a no-go for me. I’ve tried fancy cushy ones, but they just make my ears sweat. My go-to’s is the Jabra Evolve, with an extended microphone. I just take them off between sessions whenever I need a break. There are a ton on Amazon with reviews, just type in the search ‘headset for online teaching’.

If you teach Chemistry, you’ll want to check out PTable.com. 

This online periodic table of elements is a lifesaver. It’s easy for my students to use and find information quickly. Just be careful, since it can give away answers depending on what you’re teaching.

Zoom is my go-to for online tutoring classrooms. 

I can’t say it’s necessarily better than other platforms, but I’ve grown used to it and have a lot of resources on it. It just makes it easier for me to help my students and their parents when they’re stuck.

Google Classroom is another game-changer for my tutoring sessions. 

It’s a two-way method for sharing resources, which is especially helpful for Chemistry and Physics tutoring. My students can share their topics and resources with me, and I can organize the classroom so they can find resources from past sessions easily.

An external webcam is a must for me. 

Something about my office configuration is always changing, so having an external webcam helps me control the background and get a crisper image. I love my Logitech StreamCam, which even has some extra functions for making videos. It’s on the pricier side, but this list of my go-tos has evolved over time. So the investment, at least for me, is well worth it!

Last but not least, multiple monitors are a must for online teaching. 

I’m currently using three, and they all get used. This is down from four! The many multiple monitors are definitely an investment over time, so I recommend having at least one external monitor. It allows you to have your presentation or notes on one screen while seeing and working with your students on another.

There you have it, folks. My list of go-tos for what equipment is needed for online teaching and tutoring. Don’t forget to have fun and make it your own. And I hope it helps you in your journey!

(Some links on this page are Amazon affiliate links. As an Amazon Affiliate, I earn from qualifying purchases.)