How much should I charge to teach English in SL?
July 14th, 2008 Posted in Uncategorized
Good question. I just got back from a Metanomics presentation sponsored by Manpower. Philip Rosendale (Founder and Chairman of the Board at Linden Labs) spoke as a panelist in a round table discussion on Second Life’s potential for burgeoning labor market. I and a few others posed the question, “When will fair market value for services be realized?” I’m holding out on doing much more than research in Second Life because I can’t earn enough. If I could at least earn 80% of my current salary, I would definitely make the leap into a full time career teaching in Second Life.
Phillip Rosedale’s response to the question was enlightening. He sees, in relation to our salaries, “prices rising gently over time in SL.” He mentioned it is the same scenario as when word processing and graphic design were introduced. Artists and publishers lowered their prices because it was new and fun. Once everyone got used to the idea of using computers, prices began to rise to their current levels. He went on to explain that Second Life is experiencing a similar learning curve and that once “students” learn that it is valuable, they will pay.
It just means we are going to have to show them value. I think I’m going to start a teachers group and begin the process.
PS: I just found this in a search for “English Lessons” in Second Life:
I’m looking to hire a private tutor for English lessons. CONTACT XXXXX XXXXX BY I.M.
A large vocabulary and strong command of the language is a must. Being an undergrad English student, having a degree in English, or having some background with writing is a plus.
PAY: 500 LINDENS/HOUR
2 HOURS / WEEK
1000L. Bonus after 4 lessons.
(That’s about $2.00 US an hour. An average teacher should be earning at least $30.00 an hour)
