I've been using video conferencing software to teach one adult language learner for the last six months. Despite some technical hitches we have both found this a stimulating and convenient solution. Both the student and myself are professional IT people which no doubt helped and we've experimented with a variety of software options including iChat, iVisit, Skype and SightSpeed. For Apple users iChat is in a league of its own while for Apple/Pc users iVisit proves to be the most reliable. SightSpeed in its Beta version is a waste of time.

A market for this service is undoubtedly there but it needs to be marketed correctly. One solution is to work in conjunction with bricks and mortar establishments which can identify technically qualified candidates, handle the billing and provide additional feedback and support. Additional care is needed in finding teachers able to sustain online relationships and handle the tech when things go wrong.